The Delaware Fightin’ Blue Hens (2–1) will face the Florida International Panthers (2–1) in their inaugural Conference USA matchup on Saturday at Pitbull Stadium in Miami. Both teams enter the game with identical records but only one of them can improve to 3-1 with a win here. Before kickoff from the only college football stadium named after pop star Pitbull, continue reading to get my Delaware vs FIU prediction.
Our Delaware vs FIU Pick
- Pick: FIU -4.5
- Confidence: 1/5
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Game Snapshot
- Matchup: Delaware Blue Hens vs FIU Panthers
- Date & Time: Saturday, September 20, 2025, 6:00 PM EDT
- Venue: Pitbull Stadium, Miami, FL
- Broadcast: ESPN+
Key Storylines
- Delaware’s Offensive Surge: The Blue Hens have averaged 28.7 points per game, ranking second in Conference USA. Quarterback Nick Minicucci has been instrumental, leading the team with both his arm and legs. In their recent 44–41 overtime victory against UConn, Minicucci rushed for three touchdowns, showcasing his dual-threat capability.
- FIU’s Ground Game Dominance: The Panthers have a strong rushing attack, averaging 196 rushing yards per game. Running back Kejon Owens has been a standout, rushing for 173 yards and two touchdowns in their 38–28 win over Florida Atlantic. The FIU ground game will test Delaware’s defense, which has allowed 168.3 rushing yards per game.
- First Conference USA Test: Both teams are entering their first conference game of the season. Delaware has an opportunity to win its first-ever FBS conference game.
Quarterback Play
- Nick Minicucci (Delaware): Minicucci has been the catalyst for Delaware’s offense. His ability to extend plays with his legs and make precise throws has kept defenses on edge. Against UConn, he threw for 265 yards and rushed for three touchdowns. He will try to impact this game through the air and on the ground as well.
- Keyone Jenkins (FIU): Jenkins has been efficient despite not throwing a high volume of passes so far. In the Shula Bowl victory over FAU, he accounted for a passing and a rushing touchdown, displaying his ability to lead the offense effectively.
Betting Trends & H2H
- FIU’s Home Advantage: The Panthers have been dominant at home, winning their two home games this season by an average of 21.5 points. This strong home-field performance makes them tough opponents for Delaware here.
- Delaware’s Road Challenges: While Delaware has been impressive at home, their sole road game resulted in a 31–7 loss. But that game came against Colorado of the Big 12 and this game should be much more competitive for the Blue Hens away from home.
- Over/Under Trends: Both teams have seen two of their first three games stay under their totals.
Delaware vs FIU Model Projection
- Score Projection: Delaware 30 – FIU 35
- Win Probability: Delaware 45%, FIU 55%
Final Thoughts
The sports fan in me wants to see Delaware win this game outright as an underdog. But the analyst in me recommends laying the points with FIU at home here. The Panthers have moved the ball very effectively in their home games to start the season and they should do the same here against a UDel team that is still adjusting to life in the FBS.
