WHAT: UAB vs. Western Kentucky

WHEN: Friday, Oct. 21 — 7 p.m. CT

WHERE: Houchens-Smith Stadium — Bowling Green, Kentucky

SERIES: Tied, 4-4

TV: CBS Sports Network

LINE: UAB at +2.5

THIS GAME WILL DETERMINE

If the Blazers can overcome its road woes and become a front-runner for the league title game following two solid performances against conference opponents.

THREE THINGS TO LOOK FOR

1. Astronomy. The UAB defense is ranked third nationally in pass efficiency defense (97.42) and have success this season against high-volume passing offenses. However, Western Kentucky presents a unique challenge in its passing game and the Blazers will need to keep Austin Reed questioning his decisions with a strong pass rush.

2. Mailman. Dylan Hopkins threw an interception on the first play of last week’s win but that didn’t stop the junior quarterback from having one of the best outings of his career. Hopkins is taking care of the football, not hesitating when the pressure is bearing down on him and can stretch the field with a productive corps of receivers. His presence of mind is crucial for UAB’s chances at its first road win of the season.

3. Where the Wild(er) Things Are. Senior linebacker Noah Wilder currently sits in seventh place on UAB’s all-time tackles list and can easily move into the top 5 with at least 7 tackles against the Hilltoppers. A former transfer, Wilder has been a mainstay in the middle since earning the Mike position heading into the 2019 season.

KEY MATCHUP

UAB’s rushing attack vs Western Kentucky’s run defense: The Hilltoppers have the top-ranked rushing defense in the league but DeWayne McBride and company are driving a top-10 rushing attack. The ability to control time of possession and keep the ball out of the hands of Western Kentucky’s high-flying offense will be vital for the Blazers.