Florida International vs. Sam Houston: An In-Depth Betting Analysis

The upcoming matchup between Florida International University (FIU) Panthers and Sam Houston Bearkats promises to deliver an exciting clash between two teams from contrasting standings. Scheduled for Saturday, November 29, 2025, at Shell Energy Stadium, this game will be broadcast on ESPN+, starting at 1 p.m. ET.

Current Odds Overview

When placing bets, understanding the odds is crucial. According to BetMGM Sportsbook, the lines for this game are as follows:

• Moneyline (ML): FIU -380 (Bet $380 to win $100) | Sam Houston +297 (Bet $100 to win $297)
• Against the Spread (ATS): FIU -9.5 (-113) | Sam Houston +9.5 (-107)
• Over/Under (O/U): 51.5 (O: -107 | U: -114)

These odds reflect FIU’s position as a favorite, indicating confidence in their ability to dominate this matchup.

Team Performance: A Closer Look

Florida International Panthers (6-5)

The Panthers head into this game with a commendable record. Their most recent performance saw them outlast the Jacksonville State Gamecocks in a tight 27-21 contest. Quarterback Joe Pesansky displayed resilience, throwing for 196 yards, two touchdowns, and a couple of interceptions on a 50% passing rate. His additional contribution on the ground, netting 40 yards from 11 carries, showcased his dual-threat capability.

Kejon Owens made a significant impact in the ground game, rushing for 135 yards on 21 attempts, averaging 6.4 yards per carry. Adding to this potent offensive mix, wideout Alex Perry was a standout receiver, hauling in four catches for 109 yards—an impressive 27.3 yards per catch.

Sam Houston Bearkats (2-9)

On the other hand, the Bearkats are struggling, sporting a 2-9 record. Their last outing succumbed to the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders, suffering a 31-17 defeat. Despite the loss, Sam Houston’s quarterback Landyn Locke threw for a respectable 281 yards, completing 25 of 40 passes while tossing two touchdowns and one interception. The Bearkats’ running game was not as strong, with Alton McCaskill managing just 42 rushing yards on 11 attempts.

Receiver Grady O’Neill shone slightly brighter in this gloom, catching eight passes for 89 yards, indicating some form of offensive talent that could be exploited in future games.

Betting Insights and Predictions

Moneyline Trends

For the moneyline bet, FIU’s position as a -380 favorite indicates strong confidence from the betting market. The Panthers have won three of the four games in which they were listed as favorites this season, asserting their capability under pressure. In contrast, Sam Houston has entered the game as an underdog 10 times this season, managing just two wins, highlighting their challenges in competitive matchups.

Against the Spread Analysis

When it comes to the spread, the Panthers have successfully covered it seven times in 11 games this season. Notably, FIU has covered the spread in all games where they have been favored by 9.5 points or more, showcasing their ability to dominate on the field.

Conversely, Sam Houston has struggled, with a 3-8 record against the spread this season. Their performance as +9.5 underdogs also indicates a lack of consistency in keeping games close.

Over/Under Considerations

The total for this matchup is set at 51.5 points. Given the offensive capabilities of FIU, particularly with key players like Pesansky and Owens, one might expect a higher scoring affair. In previous encounters, the Panthers have been known to elevate their scoring when stakes are high.

Key Players to Watch

As the game approaches, certain players will be pivotal in determining the outcome. For FIU, the synergy between Pesansky and his receiving corps, particularly Perry, will be essential for offensive success.

For Sam Houston, watch for Locke to leverage his ability to connect deep, especially with O’Neill, to score critical points against a potentially weak FIU secondary.

Final Thoughts

As the Florida International Panthers take on the Sam Houston Bearkats, the stakes are higher for both teams. FIU looks poised to capitalize on their current momentum, while Sam Houston must find a way to defy the odds and rally for a late-season upset. Whether betting for victory, covering the spread, or predicting the total points, this game promises to be an intriguing chapter in the college football season.