FIU closed out the 2018 season by defeating Toledo in the Bahamas Bowl and setting a new program standard for wins in a season (9).
The Panthers, who began last season projected to finish near the bottom of Conference USA, will enter the upcoming year as a favorite to win the East division.
In order for FIU to take the next step, they have to take a major step forward defensively.
The unit finished 12th in rushing yards against among C-USA teams and was 92nd in FBS football. Since the bowl victory, defensive coordinator Brent Guy unexpectedly resigned to spend more time with his family.