There will be several big games to open the 2025 season on Friday, and one of them will be Florida International (FIU) taking on Bethune Cookman. Both teams have had disappointing seasons in 2024 and are aiming to open 2025 with a win and improve their respective records from last year.
FIU will be coming in with a brand new head coach in Willie Simmons, which makes things even more interesting as the Panthers will have a completely different system from last year. On the other hand, Bethune Cookman will see Raymond Woodie Jr. for his third year as the Wildcats’ head coach.
FIU Panthers vs Bethune Cookman: Key Players to Watch
While FIU will be coming into the new season with plenty to look forward to in their new coach, they also have some problems at running back, with their three main ones transferring to other programs over the off-season. Despite this, junior QB Keyone Jenkins seeks to lead the Panthers for the third year in a row, as he has served as QB1 at the school since his freshman years. This game may see how well he adjusts to the new coaching staff.
For the Bethune Cookman Wildcats, there are several players to watch out for, with redshirt senior defensive lineman AJ Hall proving to be one of the biggest names in the roster, and he is seen to cause the Panthers some problems on the defensive end.
On the offensive end, QB Cam Ransom seeks a better season for the Wildcats after their 2-10 finish last season, though he may be sharing the spotlight with the team’s other QB, Timmy McClain, who is transferring from Arkansas State. It is still not clear which of them will be starting against cross-state opponents at FIU.
Odds and Betting Lines for FIU Panthers vs Bethune Cookman
The game is expected to be closely contested, according to Dimers, though Florida International is seen to be the betting favorite.
For the odds, Florida International’s spread is -30.5 (-110) and its moneyline is at -8000, with the total being under 54.5 (-110). Meanwile. Bethune Cookman’s spread is at +30.5 (-110) with a +2500 moneyline, with a total of over 54.5 (-110).
Picks and Predictions for FIU Panthers vs Bethune Cookman
While it is a lot closer than the other matches happening on Saturday, it is likely that Florida International will be the team to take their opening game win, even with a new coach guiding them. However, Bethune Cookman is still hungry and will likely give the Panthers a run for their money.
The game is scheduled for Saturday at the Pitbull Stadium in Miami at 7:00 PM ET. It will be streamed via ESPN+.
Related:
FIU 2025 Football Schedule: Full List of Panthers’ Opponents, Dates, and Key Matchups
FIU Panthers 2024 Football Schedule
Who Is Jordan Davis? Meet FIU’s Offensive Line Sensation
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