From the other side: FIU
October 17, 2008
Thanks to Pete Pelegrin, who covers FIU for the Miami Herald, for his time and information.
What has led to FIU’s resurgence?
Last year FIU was basically a team of freshmen and sophomores (about 80 percent of the team were either frosh or sophs). I think another year in coach Mario Cristobal’s system, plus the another under strength and conditioning coach Rod Moore has helped the Golden Panthers get bigger and faster and that has translated on to the field.
What has to go right for FIU to contend for a SBC title this year?
A lot. This is still a young team that has never really played in any big games. These next 3 games vs. Troy, ULL and Arkansas State will show what kind of team FIU is this season. FIU has to keep playing turnover-free football, keep playing strong D and QB Paul McCall has to keep growing in running the new spread offense the way he has during the 3-game winning streak.
Wayne Younger played QB last year against Troy. What did Paul McCall do to beat him out and what should fans expect to see of him?
McCall just has a better understanding of the offense and is a more accurate passer. Younger is the better athlete, but McCall showed against Middle Tennessee that he can run when called upon to do so.
What’s an area Troy could take advantage of FIU in?
Troy could force the game onto McCall’s shoulders, because FIU does not really have any standout running backs.
Where could FIU take advantage of Troy in?
Not sure what Troy brings to the table, but FIU might have a speed advantage on the Trojans, if any.
Prediction?
Troy 27, FIU 17
