CFB-FBS: Sam Houston Bearkats (0-0) vs. Western Kentucky Hilltoppers (0-0)

Game Details

• Matchup: Sam Houston vs. Western Kentucky
• Date: Saturday, August 23, 2025
• Time: 7:00 PM ET
• Location: Bowling Green, KY
• TV: CBS Sports Network

Team Breakdown

Sam Houston Bearkats

• 2024 Record: 7–6 (C-USA)
• Head Coach: Phil Longo (1st year)
• Key Players:
  • QB Hunter Watson: 1,811 yards, 9 TDs, 27 sacks in 2024
  • RB Qua’Vez Humphreys: Top returning skill player
  • CB Emon Allen: Leader of a transfer-heavy secondary
• Strengths:
  • Strong finish to 2024 (5–1 in final six games)
  • Ground-heavy offense with ball control tendencies
• Concerns:

• Pass protection issues (27 sacks allowed)
• Lack of explosive plays in passing game

Western Kentucky Hilltoppers

• 2024 Record: 8–5 (C-USA)
• Head Coach: Tyson Helton
• Key Players:
  • QB Maverick McIvor: Transfer from Abilene Christian (8,000+ career yards, 63 TDs)
  • WRs: Portal-loaded group with deep-ball ability
  • DE Dave Herard: Defensive anchor
• Strengths:
  • Air-raid passing scheme with vertical threats
  • Strong home-field record (13–2 in last 15 C-USA games)
• Concerns:

• Defensive front still gelling
• Late-season fade in 2024 (2 losses in final 3 games)

Matchup Analysis

• Why WKU Wins:
  McIvor’s arm talent and Helton’s scheme should overwhelm a Bearkat defense still finding its pass rush. WKU’s tempo and chunk-play ability could break things open in the second half.
• Why Sam Houston Could Surprise:
  Longo’s offense is built to control pace and limit possessions. If Watson avoids turnovers and the run game clicks, they can keep it close into the fourth quarter.
• X-Factor:
  Sam Houston’s secondary vs. WKU’s deep threats. Emon Allen and the transfer DBs must hold up in man coverage or this could get out of hand.

Betting Angle

Why: WKU’s offense should be ahead of Sam Houston’s defense early in the season. Expect a few fourth-quarter turnovers and stalled drives from the Bearkats to let the Hilltoppers pull away.