Dallas, December 25, 2025
The Florida International University Panthers face off against the University of Texas at San Antonio Roadrunners in the SERVPRO First Responder Bowl on December 26. With FIU entering the game with a 7-5 record and a strong momentum under first-year head coach Willie Simmons, and UTSA looking for a third consecutive postseason victory with a 6-6 record, anticipation is high for this clash at Gerald J. Ford Stadium in Dallas. The match not only showcases athletic talent but also promotes community engagement and local business growth.
FIU vs. UTSA: An Exciting Matchup in the First Responder Bowl
College football action returns to Dallas with the 2025 SERVPRO First Responder Bowl
Dallas, Texas – The stage is set for an exhilarating clash as the Florida International University (FIU) Panthers take on the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) Roadrunners in the 2025 SERVPRO First Responder Bowl on December 26. This game promises to be an exciting showcase of talent, team spirit, and community engagement, reinforcing Dallas’s status as a premier sports destination.
As we gather to cheer on our local teams, it’s a reminder of how entrepreneurial spirit thrives within our communities. Just as small business owners strive for success in their ventures, these college athletes push the boundaries of their capabilities, aiming for victory in this important matchup. With the ongoing development of the Dallas County economy and its focus on fostering innovation, sporting events like this not only promote local pride but also drive business for the area.
Matchup Details
The 2025 SERVPRO First Responder Bowl takes place at Gerald J. Ford Stadium, starting at 8:00 p.m. ET. Fans can catch the action on ESPN, ensuring a lively audience both in the stadium and at home. The matchup features two talented teams with contrasting momentum heading into the game.
Florida International University Panthers
FIU enters the game with a 7-5 record, marking their first bowl appearance since 2019. This resurgence is attributed to first-year head coach Willie Simmons, whose leadership has invigorated the team. The Panthers finished their regular season strong, clinching a four-game winning streak with significant wins against Middle Tennessee State, Liberty, Jacksonville State, and Sam Houston State. Running back Kejon Owens has emerged as a standout player, earning Conference USA Player of the Year honors after amassing 1,298 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns this season.
The Roadrunners of UTSA
In contrast, the UTSA Roadrunners bring a record of 6-6 into this bowl game, marking their sixth consecutive postseason appearance under the expert guidance of head coach Jeff Traylor. The Roadrunners have shown resilience in the bowl season, having won their last two postseason games, most notably the 2023 Frisco Bowl and the 2024 Myrtle Beach Bowl. Quarterback Owen McCown has been instrumental in their game plan, throwing for 2,700 yards and 27 touchdowns during the regular season, making him a key player to watch.
A Rivalry Renewed
The all-time series between FIU and UTSA stands evenly matched at 2-2, heightening the stakes as both teams anticipate victory. UTSA triumphed in the last meeting between the two teams, winning decisively 30-10 in 2022, but this game’s narrative is set to change as both teams strive for postseason success. For FIU, a win would mark their third bowl victory, while UTSA aims for its third straight postseason triumph.
Community Impact
The 2025 SERVPRO First Responder Bowl is not just a spectacle of athletics; it’s also a celebration of community and economic growth in Dallas. Events like this drive significant traffic to local businesses, restaurants, and hospitality services, fostering an environment of entrepreneurship and investment. The support shown by local fans not only boosts team morale but also reinvigorates business opportunities throughout the city.
Conclusion
As we count down the days to the 2025 SERVPRO First Responder Bowl, both teams prepare to showcase their skills on a national stage. With rich narratives unfolding and local support unwavering, this matchup serves as a reminder of the power of community, resilience, and economic growth in Dallas. As fans flock to the stadium and tune in, let us stand behind both teams as they vie for glory. For those wanting to witness this thrilling game live, tune into ESPN on December 26 at 8:00 p.m. ET.
Key Features of the 2025 SERVPRO First Responder Bowl
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Game Date and Time | Friday, December 26, 8:00 p.m. ET |
| Location | Gerald J. Ford Stadium, Dallas, Texas |
| Broadcast | ESPN |
| Teams | FIU Panthers vs. UTSA Roadrunners |
| FIU Record | 7-5 |
| UTSA Record | 6-6 |
| FIU Head Coach | Willie Simmons |
| UTSA Head Coach | Jeff Traylor |
| Notable Players | FIU: Kejon Owens (RB); UTSA: Owen McCown (QB) |
| All-Time Series | Tied 2-2; UTSA won last matchup 30-10 in 2022 |
FAQs about the 2025 SERVPRO First Responder Bowl
What teams are playing in the 2025 SERVPRO First Responder Bowl?
The game will feature the FIU Panthers and the UTSA Roadrunners.
When and where is the game taking place?
The game is scheduled for Friday, December 26, at 8:00 p.m. ET at Gerald J. Ford Stadium in Dallas, Texas.
What is the broadcast channel for the game?
The game will be broadcast on ESPN.
What are the records of the teams entering the bowl?
FIU enters with a record of 7-5, while UTSA has a record of 6-6.
Who are the head coaches of the teams?
The head coach for FIU is Willie Simmons, and the head coach for UTSA is Jeff Traylor.
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