Monmouth’s football team secured a thrilling 45-42 victory over Florida International on Saturday night, with Michael Calton Jr. kicking a crucial 43-yard field goal to take the lead in the final two minutes. Deuce Lee’s fumble recovery at the goal line sealed the win for the Hawks, marking their first victory over an FBS program in seven attempts.
The Hawks faced a challenging schedule, playing their third road game in the first four weeks and travelling 3,682 air miles for matches at Eastern Washington, Maine, and Miami. Monmouth is set to have a break from road games until November.
In a dramatic sequence of events, Florida International fumbled on their last two possessions, allowing Monmouth to capitalize. The game-winning field goal by Calton followed a crucial fumble recovery by Remi Johnson. A late fumble by FIU near the goal line was recovered by Lee, securing Monmouth’s hard-fought victory.
Quarterback Derek Robertson had an impressive performance, completing 35 of 51 passes for 361 yards and two touchdowns. Despite an early interception returned for a touchdown, Robertson led the Hawks’ offensive charge. Running back Sone Ntoh contributed 53 yards on 12 carries and scored three touchdowns, while Rodney Nelson rushed for 117 yards on 14 carries.
FIU’s Keyone Jenkins put up a strong fight, completing 22 of 31 passes for 349 yards and two touchdowns. Running back Kejon Owens added 58 yards and two touchdowns on 11 carries for the Panthers.
The game provided fans with a thrilling display of college football, with Monmouth emerging victorious against Florida International in a hard-fought battle on the field.