Middle Tennessee Edges Florida International 26-23
The Blue Raiders secured a narrow victory behind four field goals from Dominic Bourgeois.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Football
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Middle Tennessee defeated Florida International 26-23 in Miami. The victory moves the Blue Raiders to a 2-1 record in Conference USA.
Why it matters
The win bolsters Middle Tennessee's standing in the conference standings as the team maintains momentum through the season. Florida International struggled to overcome the deficit despite a strong showing from their quarterback.
Middle Tennessee secured the win with four field goals from Dominic Bourgeois, including distances of 51, 39, 50, and 28 yards. Terrence Brown added 158 rushing yards in the effort.
The players
Dominic Bourgeois
He is a placekicker for the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders football team.
Terrence Brown
He is a running back for the Middle Tennessee football program.
JJ Kohl
He serves as a quarterback for the Florida International University football team.
Roman Gagliano
He is a quarterback playing for the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders.
Devonte Lyons
He is a running back competing for Florida International.
The details
Middle Tennessee sealed the win by utilizing an 11-play drive that consumed the final six minutes of play. While Florida International quarterback JJ Kohl threw for 179 yards and three touchdowns, it was not enough to overcome the Blue Raiders' consistent scoring.
Timeline
October 20, 2026: Middle Tennessee defeats Florida International 26-23.
October 28, 2026: Middle Tennessee hosts Kennesaw State.
October 31, 2026: Florida International plays at Liberty.
Season Trajectory
This win positions Middle Tennessee to compete for a higher seed within the 2026 Conference USA football season standings. Conversely, the loss complicates Florida International's path as the team prepares for a difficult road matchup.
Middle Tennessee improves to a 2-1 record in conference play, significantly impacting their potential for postseason bowl qualification. The clock-draining drive strategy effectively neutralized Florida International's passing attack, limiting the time JJ Kohl had to mount a comeback.
The takeaway
Middle Tennessee's ability to maintain long scoring drives allowed them to dictate the pace of the game. Efficiency in the kicking game proved to be the decisive factor in this closely contested conference matchup.
What happens next
Middle Tennessee will return to the field to host Kennesaw State on October 28, 2026. Florida International is scheduled to face Liberty on the road on October 31, 2026.
Further reading
For more on local results, see Football.
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