The city of Dallas was buzzing Friday night as the Florida International Panthers squared off against the UTSA Roadrunners in the 2025 SERVPRO First Responder Bowl. With the Gerald J. Ford Stadium bathed in stadium lights and anticipation running high, fans from both sides settled in for what promised to be a thrilling matchup to cap off a busy day of college football bowl action.
Kickoff was set for 8 p.m. Eastern Time, with ESPN and ESPN Deportes carrying the broadcast live to millions of viewers across the nation. For those preferring to stream, a host of options awaited: DIRECTV and FuboTV both dangled enticing free trials, while SlingTV offered promotional deals, and ESPN Unlimited beckoned with a comprehensive streaming package. Whether you were at home on your smart TV, catching the action on a tablet, or streaming from a gaming console, there was no shortage of ways to witness this clash between two determined programs.
The Panthers, coming off a solid 7-5 regular season, were led by their dynamic running back Kejon Owens. Owens, a workhorse all year, racked up an impressive 1,298 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns, making him one of the most reliable offensive threats in Conference USA. FIU’s offense leaned heavily on his ability to move the chains and wear down opposing defenses. As the Panthers arrived in Dallas, much of their hopes rested on Owens’ shoulders and the offensive line’s ability to create running lanes against a stout UTSA front.
On the other side of the field stood the UTSA Roadrunners, a team that battled to a 6-6 record in the regular season. While their win-loss tally might not have turned heads, their ground game certainly did. The powerful duo of Robert Henry Jr. and Will Henderson III combined for an eye-popping 1,852 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns. Add in their 2-6 receiving yards and three more scores through the air, and it’s clear UTSA boasted a backfield with both depth and versatility.
Quarterback Owen McCown provided a steady hand for the Roadrunners, tossing for 2,700 yards and 27 touchdowns against just seven interceptions. McCown’s poise in the pocket and knack for finding the end zone made him a key figure in UTSA’s offensive strategy. As the teams prepared for battle, all eyes were on whether FIU’s defense could contain UTSA’s balanced attack or if McCown would find his rhythm under the primetime lights.
Excitement wasn’t limited to the action on the field. For fans, the First Responder Bowl was a chance to enjoy postseason football without breaking the bank. DIRECTV’s five-day free trial and $40 off the first month tempted new subscribers, while FuboTV countered with a $30 discount and its own trial period. Sling TV, though skipping the free trial, still offered $30 off the first month, and ESPN Unlimited’s $12.99 monthly price opened the door to a vast array of live sports content. For the diehards, a Sling “Season Pass” at $199 plus an HDTV antenna promised nearly every college football contest of the season. Cable subscribers could also tune in via Watch ESPN using their provider credentials.
Betting lines leading up to the game added another layer of intrigue. Opening odds pegged UTSA as a 6.5-point favorite, with a moneyline of -230 for the Roadrunners and +200 for the Panthers. The total points over/under was set at 59.5, reflecting expectations of a high-scoring affair. While gambling always carries risk—something every article and network made sure to remind readers—there was no denying the extra spice it brought to bowl season.
As the stadium filled and the teams took the field, the atmosphere was electric. The First Responder Bowl, one of more than 40 postseason games this year, offered both squads a chance to end their campaigns on a high note. For FIU, a win would validate a season of growth and resilience under head coach Mike MacIntyre. For UTSA, victory would cap off a year marked by perseverance and flashes of brilliance on both sides of the ball.
Fans who couldn’t make it to Dallas still found plenty of ways to get in on the action. Streaming platforms made the viewing experience accessible to just about everyone, with ESPN Unlimited’s expanded offerings drawing particular attention. “You can watch this game today live for FREE with DirecTV (free trial) or by signing up for Fubo (free trial),” several outlets reminded readers, underscoring the growing importance of digital platforms in college football’s postseason landscape.
For those keeping tabs on the broader bowl season, the First Responder Bowl was just one chapter in a month-long football extravaganza. USA TODAY and other outlets provided exhaustive coverage, from ticket-buying guides to live updates and post-game analysis. The sheer volume of games—over 40 in total—meant fans had to pick and choose, but the FIU-UTSA matchup stood out for its competitive balance and the compelling storylines on both sides.
As the game unfolded, it became clear that both teams had come prepared. Kejon Owens tested the UTSA defense early and often, breaking off several impressive runs and keeping the Panthers’ offense on schedule. Meanwhile, Robert Henry Jr. and Will Henderson III showcased their trademark explosiveness, finding seams and pushing the tempo for the Roadrunners. Quarterback Owen McCown, true to form, managed the offense with confidence, threading passes into tight windows and taking calculated risks when opportunities arose.
Though the game’s outcome remained undecided as of press time, the intensity was unmistakable. Momentum swung back and forth, with each team making timely defensive stops and capitalizing on turnovers. Special teams played a pivotal role, flipping field position and setting up crucial scoring opportunities. The crowd—split between blue-and-gold and orange-and-blue—roared with every big play, feeding the players’ energy on the field.
With so much on the line, both coaches preached discipline and focus throughout the week. “We’re excited for the opportunity and ready to leave it all on the field,” said FIU’s coach in the lead-up to kickoff, echoing the sentiments of players on both rosters. The Roadrunners, for their part, spoke of finishing strong and honoring the seniors who had helped build the program’s foundation.
As the fourth quarter approached, fans leaned forward in their seats, sensing that a single play could tilt the balance. Would Kejon Owens add to his touchdown tally and cement his legacy at FIU? Could McCown engineer a late-game drive to seal the win for UTSA? With every snap, the stakes grew higher and the tension more palpable.
Regardless of the final score, the 2025 First Responder Bowl delivered on its promise of drama, athleticism, and heart. For fans, players, and coaches alike, it was a night to remember in Dallas—a celebration of college football and the spirit of competition that defines the sport. As the stadium lights dimmed and the teams shook hands, both programs could take pride in a hard-fought contest that showcased the very best of the game.
