FIU vs UTEP Prediction NCAAF Picks 10/11
- Lm Tipster
- Oct 10, 2023, 9:06:06 PM
© GABY VELASQUEZ/ EL PASO TIMES / USA TODAY NETWORK
UTEP vs. FIU: Conference-USA Preview
Get ready for a midweek showdown as the UTEP Miners (1-5) travel to face the Florida International Golden Panthers (3-3) in a Conference-USA clash. Both teams are seeking vital conference wins, making this matchup pivotal. Kickoff is set for 7:30 PM EST.
UTEP's Recent Form
UTEP's recent struggles continued with a 24-10 home loss to La Tech, dropping their record to 1-5 and 0-2 in conference play. In that game, the Miners fell behind early, unable to recover despite a solid ground game that produced 220 yards. Backup quarterback Kevin Hurley made his first career start, going 4-of-14 for 44 yards, while the Miners turned to Cade McConnell as well, who went 4-of-11 for 44 yards. Injuries to both quarterbacks forced third-stringer Jake McNamara into action, who went 1-of-2 for 9 yards but managed the team's lone touchdown.
Defensively, the Miners allowed just 17 points, with one score coming from a punt return. They gave up 294 yards of offense, with over 150 through the air, and recorded five tackles for loss with two sacks. Despite their struggles, UTEP aims for their first Conference-USA win and ranks 102nd in total offense, 90th in rushing, and 89th in passing. Their red zone efficiency is a concern, ranking 112th.
FIU's Recent Form
After a strong start to the season, FIU has lost two consecutive games, including a 34-17 decision against New Mexico State. The game was closely contested, tied at the end of each of the first three quarters, before New Mexico State sealed the victory with two fourth-quarter touchdowns and a field goal. FIU's freshman quarterback, Keyone Jenkins, had a strong outing, going 25-of-32 for 250 yards and adding a rushing touchdown.
Wide receiver Kris Mitchell had eight catches for 91 yards, while Dean Patterson and Eric Rivers combined for 148 receiving yards. Overall, FIU accumulated 397 yards of total offense in the game but faced two turnovers, both interceptions thrown by Jenkins.
Defensively, the Panthers allowed 439 total yards, including 256 rushing yards. They recorded six tackles for loss, including two sacks, and managed to force one turnover via a CJ Christian interception.
Prediction
In this Conference-USA matchup, the over/under is set at 44 points, and the prediction leans towards taking the under.
Both UTEP and FIU have faced offensive challenges this season, and their defensive performances suggest a game with limited scoring opportunities. UTEP's struggles on offense and FIU's recent losses indicate a lower-scoring game.
With an over/under of 44 points, this matchup seems likely to feature strong defensive efforts, making the under a favorable bet. Expect a hard-fought contest with fewer points on the board.
