The Florida International Panthers and the Indiana Hoosiers meet in Bloomington, with a 2-0 start at stake. Which team will remain perfect? We break it down below in the Indiana vs. FIU prediction and game preview.

Indiana vs. FIU Prediction & Preview

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Broadcast

Date: Saturday, September 12
Game Time: 8:00 ET
Network: Big Ten Network

Why You Need To Care

Florida International and Indiana are both coming off thrilling one-point victories on the opening weekend. Whoever gets out of Bloomington unbeaten could use the fast start as a launching pad to the postseason. In a study of polar opposite contrasts, the Panthers shocked heavily-favored UCF with defense, while the Hoosiers leaned on an explosive offense to survive Southern Illinois.

Why FIU Will Win

The Panthers have the better win in 2015, stunning UCF as a 17-point underdog. FIU shut down the Knight running game with an athletic defense that closes quickly to the ball. Panther backs Anthon Samuel and Alex Gardner will also see more running room against a porous Hoosier D that yielded 649 yards to the Salukis.

Why Indiana Will Win

The Panthers lack the pop to keep up with the balanced Hoosiers, who can move the ball on the ground with UAB transfer Jordan Howard or off the arm of talented QB Nate Sudfeld. The 230-pound Howard enjoyed an auspicious debut with 145 yards and three touchdowns on only 20 carries.

Player Who Matters

Which unit is worse, the FIU offense or the Indiana D? The answer will dictate Saturday’s outcome. It could boil down to Gardner and Samuel vs. DE Nick Mangieri and LB Marcus Oliver, who were particularly active in the Southern Illinois game.

What’s Going To Happen?

Fascinating game because of the differing approaches and because of what’s at stake for two struggling programs. Florida International is going to surprise more people with the play of its defense. But going back on the road following an emotional victory is a tall order. Howard and Sudfeld will fuel another win, leading the Hoosiers to their first 2-0 start in three years.

Indiana vs. FIU Score Prediction

Without further ado, the Indiana vs. FIU prediction is …

Final Score: Indiana 31, FIU 21

Must See Rating: 5: Ferrell Takes the Field – 1: A Walk in The Woods … 1.5