Jamil Ferrer | Nov 23, 2025

The FIU Panthers went up against the 7-3 Jacksonville State Gamecocks in a crucial C-USA battle Saturday Nov. 22nd; in a crowd of 9,504 fans at Pitbull Stadium, the Panthers handled business, resulting in them upsetting the Gamecocks in a 27-21 win.

The entire FIU organization played significant roles in this victory, from fan engagement due to the “Paws at the Pit” event, which allowed fans attending to bring their pets to the stadium, to Military Appreciation Day and Senior Day, in which FIU honored 21 Panthers and appreciated military workers for their service.

Now, what does this victory mean? Well, the Panthers are officially bowl eligible for the first time since 2019! Making this a significant accomplishment for first year Head Coach Willie Simmons and the program, especially considering the rough seasons in the past. 

Enough of that, let’s get to the game. 

FIU struck first as RB Kejon Owens bulldozed his way through defenders for a 3 yard touchdown, making the game 7-0 in the first quarter. 

Looking for a response as time winded down in the first, Gamecocks QB Caden Creel found WR Deondre Johnson for a 28 yard touchdown pass; evening up the game 7-7 by the end of the quarter.

Starting the second quarter strong was Jax State as RB Cam Cook had a 1 yard touchdown run—putting Jax State on top in a tight 14-7 battle.

As the Panthers looked for a way to respond, they came to dead ends, which allowed the Gamecocks to hold them to zero points in the second quarter. 

With the third quarter starting, all of that went out of the window as FIU QB Joe Pesansky found Offensive Lineman Chad Staley for an unusual 1 yard touchdown pass; tying the game 14-14.

Jax State struck back in response as QB Caden Creel found WR Pearson Baldwin for a 20 yard touchdown pass, allowing the Gamecocks to get a 21-14 lead.

Unable to get a touchdown in return, the Panthers settled for a 35 yard field goal by Noah Grant , making the game 21-17 as the third quarter came to a close.

As the fourth quarter got underway, momentum shifted toward the Panthers as their defense was able to keep the Gamecocks away from the end zone. As a result, FIU QB Joe Pesansky found WR Alex Perry for a huge 64 yard touchdown pass. 

Looking to seal the deal, FIU Kicker Noah Grant made a 42 yard field goal to extend the lead to 27-21 victory.

FIU RB Kejon Owens had an excellent performance with 21 carries, 135 yards, and 1 touchdown; making him the FIU new all time single season rushing record holder.

With this win, the Panthers become Bowl eligible for the first time since 2019; looking to use the positive news to finish their season off strong as they head to Texas to face 2-9 Sam Houston.