Twitter: @Petepelegrin
Don Shula Bowl XVI is the first time that both FIU and Florida Atlantic have something to play for besides spoiler to the other. In some of the first 15 Shula Bowls either the Panthers or the Owls came into the game enjoying a good season looking toward a bowl game. Meanwhile, the other team, whether it was the Panthers or the Owls, played the Shula Bowl like it was their bowl game that season – in other words playing for bragging rights and the Shula Trophy.
In this year's Shula Bowl both FIU and FAU come in having a shot at the Conference USA championship.