MIAMI, FL – The new season for FIU Football began at the practice fields for the first round of Spring Practice. Everyone, from veterans to newcomers and returners to transfers, showcased their talents to potentially secure a starting spot when Week 1 rolls around.
Under head coach Willie Simmons and a revitalized coaching staff, there are plenty of storylines to choose from. There are open spots available for the taking, while others might have them on lock. Meanwhile, some players are making their return to FIU or arrive in the 305 from the power conference level.
There’s Comfort At The Helm
The probability of Keyone Jenkins starting the season for FIU will be pretty high. The third-year quarterback from the 305 has proven that he’s capable of leading the offense in the past. However, under the guidance of a new coaching staff and playbook, we’ll see how his game will evolve.
Jenkins made eyes pop when he entered his name into the transfer portal, then subsequently took himself out of it. According to him, that was to see where he was when it came to overall interest and to judge where he would get the most immediate playing time. While power conference teams were on the table, Miami is where his home is, so FIU made the most sense in the long run.
One big difference to watch out for is the weapons that Jenkins will be utilizing. With Eric Rivers and Dean Patterson transferring to Georgia Tech, the competition for WR1 and WR2 are wide open. These practices will provide an idea of who clicks with Lyghtz out of a solid handful of players to choose from.
Finally Playing Football In Miami
On the other end, the running back room has certified talent. With Kejon Owens and Devonte Lyons returning, it would be easy to say that they’re the likely starters come the season. However, a transfer looking to make a name for himself is Ajay Allen, the transfer from Miami.
To say he was underutilized with the Hurricanes would be an understatement. Now, he finds himself with a solid opportunity to find playing time, no matter what it is.
“I just want to show people that I am one of the best running backs in the country,” said Allen. “What you are going to experience this year is going to be the best thing you’ve probably seen. Everybody wants to play. So we’ll just come here and work every day and see the final results on day 15.”
Open For Taking At The Defense
FIU’s defense features a respectable number of returners, but safeties will see a big shakeup. With Jojo Evans and CJ Christian gone, there will be two new players starting for defensive coordinator Jovan Dewitt.
One player that fits the bill is Demetrius Hill. His story is both tragic and uplifting. He is a former Panther who transferred to Illinois for the 2023 season but suffered a season-ending injury to his right knee after one game and then missed the following season. Now, he rejoins the Panthers as a veteran of the unit.
Red Wolves To Golden Panthers
Arkansas State transfer Websley Etienne could be a solid piece. With 56 total tackles and two interceptions for the Red Wolves in 2024, Etienne is playing with a purpose in 2025.
He is a product of Fort Lauderdale, so he’s happy to be back in South Florida. Arkansas State was beneficial to him, but his excitement for playing with the Panthers came from his initial conversations with Coach Simmons.
“The first thing he said (Willie Simmons) was turn the crib up. Let’s make the 305 great, and that was his main selling point,” said Allen. “He just kept telling me Let’s do it. I’m bringing other guys in. I’m bringing that D-line and linebackers. I need you in the back end. So that’s what made it happen.”
Spring practices will continue every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday up until April 5th, which is the Spring Game at Pitbull Stadium.
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