Florida International Panthers 2024 Season Preview

The Florida International Panthers made a minor improvement last year in their first season under head coach Mike MacIntyre. Florida International went from one win to four victories, as they still haven’t posted a winning record since 2018.

The Panthers have struggled immensely in Conference USA play the last three seasons with a 2-17 mark.

The top returning piece for Florida International is dual-threat quarterback Keyone Jenkins. The native of Miami had a strong freshman debut, notching over 2,400 passing yards along with six rushing scores. Jenkins has bulked up in the offseason, which should help reduce the likelihood of injuries.

Kris Mitchell, the Panthers’ top receiver from last season, departed in the transfer portal for Notre Dame. Dean Patterson (28 receptions, 423 yards) is the most productive returning receiver.

The Panthers’ running back room has a ton of experience and will be a committee approach. Shomari Lawrence led the Panthers with 566 yards and four touchdowns last season. Lexington Joseph and Kejon Owens will get a fair share of touches as well.

The Florida International defense ranked amongst the worst in turnovers last season.

The Panthers have spots to fill along a defensive line that generated minimal pressure. Jeramy Passmore will be counted on to turn that category around.

Top tackler Donovan Manuel is now in the pros, so linebacker Reggie Peterson (104 tackles) will have even more of a burden to carry.
Not unexpectedly, Florida International ranks last in the 2024 Conference USA Championship odds. However, at least reaching .500 is still attainable if everything breaks right for the Panthers.