The 2024 college football season continues to bring exciting matchups, and one game that stands out in Week 7 is the clash between the UTEP Miners and the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers on Thursday, October 10, 2024, at 8 p.m. ET. Both teams are competing for a stronger foothold in Conference USA, and this game could have significant implications for their postseason hopes. Western Kentucky has shown flashes of brilliance this season with their high-powered offense, while UTEP has demonstrated a resilient and physical style of play.
In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the upcoming game: how to watch it live, a detailed preview of both teams, key players to watch, betting odds, and a prediction on how the game will unfold. If you’re a fan of college football, this is a matchup you don’t want to miss.
How to Watch UTEP vs. Western Kentucky: TV & Streaming Options
TV Broadcast
- CBS Sports Network: The UTEP vs. Western Kentucky game will be broadcast live on CBS Sports Network. Known for its extensive coverage of college football, CBS Sports Network provides fans with expert commentary, in-depth analysis, and live coverage of games throughout the season. This matchup will be featured as part of the network’s prime-time lineup, and viewers can expect a high-quality broadcast.
Streaming Options
- FuboTV: If you’re looking to stream the game live, FuboTV is an excellent option. FuboTV offers CBS Sports Network as part of its package, allowing you to watch the game from anywhere. FuboTV also provides a free trial for new subscribers, giving you the opportunity to watch this matchup without a long-term commitment. With FuboTV, you can stream the game on multiple devices, including smart TVs, laptops, tablets, and smartphones.
- Hulu + Live TV: Another popular streaming platform, Hulu + Live TV, also offers CBS Sports Network. Hulu + Live TV provides a combination of live sports, entertainment, and on-demand programming, making it a versatile option for viewers. With Hulu’s user-friendly interface and a free trial for new users, you can easily tune into the UTEP vs. Western Kentucky game.
- Sling TV: Sling TV is another budget-friendly option for streaming college football games, including this one. Sling TV’s packages include CBS Sports Network, and its flexibility makes it a great choice for viewers who don’t want to commit to a traditional cable subscription. Sling TV also offers cloud DVR, allowing you to record the game and watch it later if needed.
- YouTube TV: YouTube TV is another reliable option for streaming the game. It includes CBS Sports Network in its channel lineup and offers unlimited DVR storage, which means you can record the game and watch it at your convenience. YouTube TV’s interface is intuitive and user-friendly, making it easy to switch between live games and other content.
Mobile and On-the-Go Options
- CBS Sports App: The CBS Sports App is a great way to stream the game live on your mobile device. Whether you’re using an iPhone, Android device, or tablet, the CBS Sports App allows you to watch CBS Sports Network’s broadcast of the game from anywhere. You’ll need to log in with your TV provider information to access the stream.
- Yahoo Sports App: Another mobile option is the Yahoo Sports App, which offers live streaming of select college football games. This app is free to download and provides a simple and effective way to watch the UTEP vs. Western Kentucky game on your mobile device.
Game Preview: UTEP Miners vs. Western Kentucky Hilltoppers
This Conference USA matchup between the UTEP Miners and the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers features two teams with contrasting styles. UTEP brings a hard-nosed, physical approach to the game, relying on a ground-and-pound offense and a tough defense, while Western Kentucky is known for its explosive, fast-paced passing attack. This game will be a fascinating battle of strengths as both teams aim to secure a critical conference win.
UTEP Miners Overview
The UTEP Miners, led by head coach Dana Dimel, have steadily improved over the past few seasons. Known for their physicality and grit, the Miners play a brand of football that focuses on controlling the clock and winning the battle in the trenches. They’ve been a competitive force in Conference USA, but inconsistency has plagued them at times, especially when facing high-powered offenses like Western Kentucky.
- Offense: UTEP’s offense is built around a strong running game, led by running back Deion Hankins. Hankins is a bruising back who excels at gaining tough yards between the tackles. The Miners rely heavily on his ability to wear down defenses and open up play-action opportunities for their passing game. Quarterback Gavin Hardison has shown flashes of potential, but his accuracy and decision-making have been inconsistent. Hardison will need to be at his best in this game to keep pace with Western Kentucky’s high-scoring offense.UTEP’s offensive line is one of the strengths of the team, providing solid protection for Hardison and opening running lanes for Hankins. If they can establish the run early and control the clock, they’ll have a better chance of keeping Western Kentucky’s offense off the field.
- Defense: The Miners’ defense is anchored by a stout front seven, led by defensive tackle Kelton Moss and linebacker Tyrice Knight. UTEP’s defense has been effective at stopping the run, but they’ll be tested by Western Kentucky’s potent passing attack. The Miners’ secondary, led by cornerback Dennis Barnes, will need to step up and limit the big plays that Western Kentucky is known for.UTEP’s ability to generate pressure on the quarterback will be crucial in this game. Defensive end Jadrian Taylor has been a disruptive force off the edge, and if he can get to Western Kentucky’s quarterback, it could force mistakes and create opportunities for the Miners.
Western Kentucky Hilltoppers Overview
The Western Kentucky Hilltoppers, under the guidance of head coach Tyson Helton, have become one of the most exciting teams in Conference USA, thanks to their high-flying offense. Helton, a former offensive coordinator, has implemented an aggressive passing attack that has put up big numbers consistently. The Hilltoppers have one of the most prolific offenses in the conference, and they’ll look to exploit UTEP’s defense with their up-tempo style.
- Offense: Western Kentucky’s offense is led by star quarterback Austin Reed, who has been lighting up opposing defenses all season. Reed’s ability to read defenses and deliver accurate passes downfield makes him a nightmare for secondaries to defend. He has a strong connection with wide receiver Malachi Corley, one of the top playmakers in the conference. Corley’s speed and route-running ability make him a deep threat on every play.In addition to their passing game, the Hilltoppers have a solid running back in Davion Ervin-Poindexter, who provides balance to the offense. While Western Kentucky is known for airing it out, they’ve shown the ability to run the ball effectively when needed. The offensive line has done a great job of protecting Reed, giving him time to find his receivers and pick apart defenses.
- Defense: Defensively, Western Kentucky has had its ups and downs this season. They’ve struggled at times to stop the run, which could be a concern against UTEP’s physical rushing attack. However, the Hilltoppers have been opportunistic in creating turnovers, and their secondary, led by cornerback Upton Stout, has been able to make key plays in crucial moments.Linebacker JaQues Evans is the leader of the defense, and his ability to fly around the field and make tackles will be essential in containing UTEP’s ground game. Western Kentucky’s defense may bend, but their goal will be to limit big plays and create turnovers that can swing the momentum in their favor.
Key Matchups to Watch
1. UTEP’s Ground Game vs. Western Kentucky’s Run Defense
One of the most critical matchups in this game will be how UTEP’s rushing attack, led by Deion Hankins, fares against Western Kentucky’s run defense. The Miners have been effective at running the ball and controlling the clock, which helps keep opposing offenses off the field. However, Western Kentucky’s defense has been vulnerable to the run at times this season.
If UTEP can establish the run early and consistently move the chains, they’ll be able to limit the number of possessions Western Kentucky’s high-powered offense gets. On the flip side, if Western Kentucky can shut down the run and force UTEP into passing situations, it will play right into their hands.
2. Austin Reed vs. UTEP’s Secondary
Western Kentucky quarterback Austin Reed has been one of the top passers in Conference USA, and he’ll be looking to exploit UTEP’s secondary in this game. Reed’s ability to spread the ball around to multiple receivers, including Malachi Corley, will test UTEP’s defensive backs. UTEP’s secondary, led by Dennis Barnes, will need to be disciplined and avoid giving up big plays.
If UTEP’s defense can get pressure on Reed and force him to make quick decisions, they may be able to disrupt Western Kentucky’s passing attack. However, if Reed is given time to sit in the pocket, he could pick apart the Miners’ secondary.
3. Turnover Battle
Turnovers often decide close games, and this matchup could come down to which team takes better care of the football. Western Kentucky’s defense has been opportunistic in creating takeaways, while UTEP’s offense has struggled with turnovers at times. On the other hand, UTEP’s defense will need to force turnovers to give their offense extra possessions and set up scoring opportunities.
If either team can win the turnover battle decisively, it could swing the game in their favor.
Odds and Predictions
Betting Odds
- Point Spread: Western Kentucky (-7.5)
- Over/Under: 59 points
Prediction
This game between UTEP and Western Kentucky is expected to be a competitive Conference USA battle, but Western Kentucky’s high-powered offense gives them a clear edge. UTEP will look to control the clock and win the game in the trenches, but if Western Kentucky can get their passing game going early, they’ll be tough to stop.
The Miners’ best chance of winning lies in their ability to keep the game low-scoring and control the tempo with their rushing attack. However, Western Kentucky’s ability to score quickly and efficiently will put pressure on UTEP to keep pace.
Final Score Prediction: Western Kentucky 38, UTEP 27
The UTEP Miners vs. Western Kentucky Hilltoppers game on Thursday, October 10, 2024, at 8 p.m. ET is shaping up to be an exciting Conference USA showdown. Both teams have something to prove, and with key matchups on both sides of the ball, this game promises to deliver plenty of action.
Whether you’re watching on FuboTV, Hulu + Live TV, or any other streaming platform, this is a must-watch for college football fans. Western Kentucky’s explosive offense and UTEP’s physical running game will clash in what should be a highly entertaining contest.
