Western Kentucky vs. Middle Tennessee Prediction, Game Preview
Western Kentucky vs. Middle Tennessee prediction and game preview. The Hilltoppers look to run their record to 5-1 as they host the Blue Raiders.
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The Western Kentucky Hilltoppers (4-1) and the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders (2-3) hook up in a key East Division showdown. Check out the Western Kentucky vs. Middle Tennessee prediction and game preview.
Western Kentucky vs. Middle Tennessee Game Preview
Broadcast
Date: Saturday, October 10
Venue: Houchen Industries L.T. Smith Stadium, Bowling Green, Kentucky
Game Time: 12:00 ET
Network: FSN
Why You Need To Care
Middle Tennessee and Western Kentucky meet Saturday in a game of significance in the Conference USA East race. The Hilltoppers are the early frontrunners to capture not only the division, but also the league. After losing a nail-biter with Indiana on Sept. 19, they’ve rebounded with blowouts on Miami U. and Rice. However, the Blue Raiders are not to be overlooked. Yeah, they’ve got three losses, but they’ve come to Alabama, Illinois and Vanderbilt, the latter two by just six points combined.
Why Middle Tennessee Will Win
The Hilltoppers need to pass to flourish. But the Blue Raiders have been solid all year on D, especially when the ball is in the air. Middle Tennessee ranks No. 16 nationally in pass efficiency defense, with nine picks and only five touchdown passes allowed. The linebackers move well, and S Kevin Byard and CB Jeremy Cutrer excel in coverage.
Why Western Kentucky Will Win
While the Toppers will have to earn their points this weekend, their edge in offensive firepower will be significant this week. QB Brandon Doughty is averaging 400 yards a game, deftly getting all of his receivers and tight ends involved in the aerial assault. And while Middle Tennessee’s numbers look good on paper, they’re being artificially inflated by 70-point outbursts versus Jackson State and Charlotte. Otherwise, the Blue Raiders are averaging just 16 points a contest.
Player Who Matters
Middle Tennessee has been unable to run the ball on decent opponents, forcing rookie QB Brent Stockstill to become the offensive fulcrum. Nice player, with a bright future, but balance is supposed to be the cornerstone of the Blue Raider attack. If LB Nick Holt and the rest of an improving WKU defense can seal off running lanes on the backs, MTSU will again be in trouble.
What’s Going To Happen?
While Middle Tennessee is always a dangerous and well-coached team, it’ll have a tough time sticking with the Western Kentucky attack. The Blue Raiders will no doubt compete, much the way they have in losses the last two weekends. But Doughty will outgun Stockstill to give the Toppers an early leg up in the East Division race.
Western Kentucky vs. Middle Tennessee Prediction
Final Score: Western Kentucky 34, Middle Tennessee 24, Line: Western Kentucky -8.5, o/u: 65
Must See Rating: 5: The Walk – 1: Pan … 2
