It’s a good Conference USA matchup between FIU and Middle Tennessee teams in the same spot. Both are 1-1 in conference play and 3-3 overall, with the winner still very much alive in the CUSA title chase and in the hunt for a possible bowl game.
FIU has a killer defense this season, but it couldn’t hold up late in a tough 27-24 loss to Jacksonville State last week. Middle Tennessee has been a bit inconsistent, but it pulled off a great win it needed to have last week against Delaware.
Middle Tennessee vs FIU: Quick Hits
- FIU goes on the road for three of its next four games, starting with a showdown at Liberty 11 days from now.
- Middle Tennessee gets two home games in a row with Kennesaw State and Western Kentucky next.
- FIU beat Middle Tennessee 56-30 last year, but the Blue Raiders have won five of the last seven.
How To Watch Middle Tennessee vs FIU
Date: Tuesday, October 20, 2026
Game Time: 8:00 PM ET
TV: CBS Sports Network
Location: Pitbull Stadium, Miami, FL
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Why Middle Tennessee Will Win
Can Middle Tennessee’s Roman Gagliano be sharp enough to keep the attack moving? This isn’t a high-powered Blue Raider team, but it doesn’t turn the ball over, and it’s great at capitalizing on its opportunities.
The Blue Raider passing game is 3-1 when connecting on 55% or more of its passes, and FIU is 0-3 when allowing teams to complete 55% or more.
Why FIU Will Win
Middle Tennessee doesn’t generate a pass rush and shouldn’t be much of a bother in the FIU backfield. But the bigger problem for the Blue Raiders should be an offense that’s the second-worst in America on third down conversions.
The FIU defense struggled in key moments in the loss to Jacksonville State, but overall it’s tenth in the nation in third down stops and it leads Conference USA against the run. The Blue Raiders should have a long night keeping the chains moving.
Middle Tennessee vs FIU Prediction, Betting Lines
FIU isn’t allowing teams to score. Jacksonville State had to do everything right to get by the Panthers last week, and Middle Tennessee won’t be nearly as efficient in key moments.
FIU has allowed 20 points or fewer against everyone but Jacksonville State, and it won’t get torched this week, either.
FIU 27, Middle Tennessee 13
Latest Consensus Line: FIU -10.5, o/u: 45.5
ATS Confidence (out of 5): 3
Must See Rating (out of 5): 2
Consensus line based on BetMGM, Caesars, DraftKings, and FanDuel. Game odds refresh periodically and are subject to change. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem and wants help, call 1-800-GAMBLER.