Saturday, September 5, 2026. Kickoff 7 p.m. ET on ESPN+.
South Florida opens at Raymond James Stadium against in-state FIU, an all Florida matchup between the American and Conference USA. USF was in the playoff conversation into November last season; FIU is trying to climb out of the bottom of CUSA.
| Kickoff | 7 p.m. ET · 6 p.m. CT · 5 p.m. MT · 4 p.m. PT |
| TV | None. Streaming only. |
| Streaming | ESPN+ (in the ESPN app) |
| Venue | Raymond James Stadium, Tampa, Florida |
| Line | USF favored by roughly three touchdowns at most books. Check yours for the current number. |
Prediction and Odds
USF has the far better roster, the home field and the higher ceiling. The Bulls were one of the American’s best teams through October last year before fading, and the offense returns enough to score in bunches. FIU has a new look roster and not much recent success against the American.
Our pick: South Florida 38, FIU 14. USF wins and covers a number in the low 20s.
Why This One Matters
USF plays at Army the following week to open American play, so this is the one chance to look dominant before the conference schedule. For FIU, it is a guarantee game and a measuring stick.
How to Watch Without Cable
This game is on ESPN+ only. It is not on any cable or satellite channel and is not included in Fubo, YouTube TV or Hulu + Live TV. You need ESPN+ or the ESPN app’s full plan. See our streaming guide.
The Bottom Line
FIU at South Florida kicks off at 7 p.m. ET Saturday, September 5 on ESPN+. USF is our pick by a wide margin. Follow the score on our live scoreboard.