The 2012 season want be a easy one for FIU before they depart the Sun Belt

Can the Panthers go out with a bang?

Head Coach Mario Cristobal and the Florida International Golden Panthers have some big name opponents to beat, some must win games and some games that want revenge.  

Mario Cristobol has been at the helm of the Golden Panthers for the last five years. In 2010, they burst onto the scene by winning the most games in school history (they've only been around since 2002). Last year they didn't have as much success in the conference but finished the year with a school best eight wins including a victory over Louisville a Big East member.

On offense, FIU must replace WR T.Y. Hilton (72 rec, 9 TD) and QB Wesley Carroll (14 TD, 4 INT).

Leading rusher Kedrick Rhodes (1149 yds, 8 TD) is back and despite the loss of Hilton the wide receiver corps at FIU is still deep. In addition to the returning WRs, the Golden Panthers also brings in Ohio State transfer James Louis. Sophomore Jake Medlock should take over at QB but keep an eye on true freshman E.J. Hilliard. 

FIU also has the most starts returning on the OL in the Sun Belt (and sixth most in the Nation).

Defense has been the cake for Florida International Golden Panthers, as they've led the Sun Belt in scoring defense for two straight years.

The key for FIU to win and win big on an exit from the Sunbelt and make a great impression is to win over the following early games and games throughout the season. (DUKE) FIU will travel to North Carolina to take on Duke at home in the season opener, and will welcome the Louisville Cardinals to Miami on Sept. 22^nd.

Florida International must win games over Sun Belt newcomer South Alabama on November 3^rd , and MAC conference member Akron on September 8^th, and for one last time FIU will travel to FAU has a conference team and in-state rival on November 16^th.  

A revenge matters when FIU take on conference members UL-Lafayette on September 29^th in Louisiana, Arkansas State at home in Miami on Oct. 4^th and then Western Kentucky at home on October 27^th.

Another thing to watch is that FIU will run a faster-paced offense with new coordinator Tim Cramsey. The Golden Panthers should finish the season with a 7-5 record.