What better way to start the season than to put a hurting on a conference foe?

The Golden Panthers of Florida International University began their title defense by completely destroying the so-called Mean Green of North Texas. It looks like you can mess with [North] Texas after all.

The Panthers started the game by scoring 28 points in the first quarter. Three of those four opening touchdowns came from their new-and-improved running game anchored by Kendrick Rhodes and Darriet Perry. The other touchdown was a nifty pass from quarterback Wes Carroll to T.Y. Hilton for 60 yards.

FIU then coasted to a 41-16 victory. It could have been 41-0 if it weren't for offensive mistakes that led to fumble recoveries and a last-minute safety. That's not the kind of play that gets fans excited and optimistic about facing Louisville of the Big East Conference next week.

With the win, FIU is now five wins away from making it to two straight bowl games.