Western Kentucky vs. FIU Short Report | Nov 25, 2023
Riccardo Silva Stadium
Miami, FL
Nov 25, 2023
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Game Recap
Western Kentucky triumphed over Florida International with a thrilling 41-28 victory, showcasing high-octane offenses and pivotal defensive maneuvers. The Hilltoppers launched an explosive start, racking up 21 points in the first quarter, capped by Austin Reed's 39-yard touchdown pass to Jimmy Holiday and Upton Stout's 16-yard fumble return for a score. Despite a spirited effort and notable comeback attempts, the Panthers couldn't erase the early deficit exacerbated by critical turnovers.
Western Kentucky's quarterback, Austin Reed, orchestrated a masterclass performance, amassing 280 passing yards and four touchdowns. Reed was instrumental in maintaining the offensive rhythm and capitalizing on Florida International's defensive lapses. Meanwhile, FIU's quarterback, Keyone Jenkins, displayed commendable tenacity, throwing for 249 yards and three touchdowns, albeit blemished by two interceptions and a game-changing fumble. The game was defined by standout defensive efforts, notably by Adrian Cole's 84-yard fumble return touchdown providing a late spark for the Panthers.
Key Plays:
Malachi Corley (Western Kentucky)
Malachi Corley caught a 2-yard touchdown pass from Austin Reed, providing the Hilltoppers with the game's first points. This methodical play set the tone for Western Kentucky's offensive dominance early on.
Jimmy Holiday (Western Kentucky)
Austin Reed connected with Jimmy Holiday on a deep 39-yard touchdown pass, extending Western Kentucky's lead to 14-0. The play was a testament to Reed's arm strength and precision under pressure.
Upton Stout (Western Kentucky)
Upton Stout recovered a fumble and returned it 16 yards for a touchdown as the first quarter ended. This defensive score injected momentum into the Hilltoppers' sideline.
Rocky Beers (Florida International)
Rocky Beers caught a 3-yard touchdown reception to finally get FIU on the board. Jenkins' quick release and Beers' sure hands narrowed the deficit significantly.
Easton Messer (Western Kentucky)
Easton Messer caught a 16-yard touchdown pass, making it 28-7. Messer's route running and Reed's accuracy made this scoring play look effortless.
Craig Burt Jr. (Western Kentucky)
Craig Burt Jr. made a 32-yard touchdown catch, increasing Western Kentucky's lead further. This play demonstrated the depth of Reed's receiving corps.
Eric Rivers (Florida International)
Eric Rivers caught a 5-yard touchdown pass from Keyone Jenkins, narrowing the gap to 41-14. Rivers' sharp cut and Jenkins' quick decision-making were key to this score.
K.D. Hutchinson (Western Kentucky)
K.D. Hutchinson caught a 45-yard touchdown pass, further stretching WKU's lead to 41-14. Hutchinson's remarkable speed left defenders trailing.
Adrian Cole (Florida International)
Adrian Cole recovered a fumble and returned it 84 yards for a touchdown, invigorating the Panthers' squad and cutting the deficit to 41-21. Cole's awareness and speed were on full display.
Eric Rivers (Florida International)
Eric Rivers hauled in a 19-yard touchdown reception as FIU attempted a late rally. His dependable performance became a highlight for FIU.
Standout Players:
Austin Reed (Western Kentucky, QB)
Austin Reed threw for 280 yards and four touchdowns, orchestrating a dynamic Hilltoppers offense with precision and efficiency. His pivotal passes, especially the long bomb to Jimmy Holiday, underscored his leadership and skill. Reed's performance underlined why he's one of WKU's most reliable quarterbacks.
Malachi Corley (Western Kentucky, WR)
Malachi Corley was a reliable target for Reed, catching six passes for 52 yards and a touchdown. Corley's consistent ability to gain yardage after the catch played a crucial role in sustaining drives throughout the game.
Keyone Jenkins (Florida International, QB)
Keyone Jenkins exhibited resilience for FIU, passing for 249 yards and three touchdowns. Despite his two interceptions, Jenkins showed poise in the pocket and connected on several key throws, particularly to Eric Rivers in the end zone.
Eric Rivers (Florida International, WR)
Eric Rivers was a standout receiver with five catches for 29 yards and two touchdowns. His precise route running and reliable hands made him a central figure in FIU's passing attack, providing bright moments in a challenging game.
Upton Stout (Western Kentucky, DB)
Upton Stout's defensive prowess was highlighted by his fumble recovery and 16-yard return for a touchdown. His timely play was instrumental in securing WKU's early dominance and setting the defensive tone.
Adrian Cole (Florida International, DB)
Adrian Cole delivered a spectacular 84-yard fumble return for a touchdown, providing a rare defensive highlight for FIU. Cole’s awareness and agility were pivotal in this electrifying play, energizing his team despite the overall deficit.
References:
Western Kentucky Hilltoppers vs. FIU Panthers - Final Score - November 25, 2023 | FOX Sports
Football vs Western Kentucky on 11/25/2023 - Box Score - FIU Athletics
Western Kentucky University Athletics
Western Kentucky Hilltoppers vs. FIU Panthers Box Score and Stats - November 25, 2023 | FOX Sports
Western Kentucky University Athletics
Source
Team
1
2
3
4
T
Western Kentucky Hilltoppers
21
13
7
0
41
FIU Panthers
0
7
7
14
28
