The FIU Panthers celebrated a successful debut at Pitbull Stadium on September 7, 2024, with a commanding 52-16 victory against Central Michigan. This game marked the stadium's inauguration under its new name, courtesy of a partnership with global icon Pitbull. The Panthers dominated early, achieving a 28-0 lead by halftime through a series of turnovers which directly led to scoring opportunities. With standout performances, including three touchdowns from quarterback Keyone Jenkins and a touchdown return by Brian Blades II, the win highlighted FIU's potential for a remarkable 25th season of football.

By the Numbers
  • FIU scored 52 points, the highest in a game since 2018.
  • The defense recorded six turnovers, including five interceptions and a fumble recovery.
  • Keyone Jenkins accounted for three touchdowns (two passing, one rushing).
State of Play
  • The 2026 season marks FIU's 25th year of football competition.
  • Fans can expect various media content celebrating the team's history leading up to the anniversary season.
  • Head coach Willie Simmons leads the team into his second season following a record-breaking first year.
What's Next

As the 25th season approaches, FIU will engage fans with a series of historical content and promotional events. The anticipation builds around continuing to build on the program's legacy while generating excitement for both current and future players. The athletic department aims to sustain momentum from the strong opener into the full season.

Bottom Line

The inaugural victory at Pitbull Stadium not only sets a promising tone for FIU's 25th football season but also emphasizes the high expectations for the team's performance and fan engagement moving forward. The partnership with Pitbull could bring additional visibility and support to the athletic program, paving the way for future successes.