UTEP Miners at Western Kentucky Hilltoppers Player Props, Picks and Predictions - 10/10/2024 8:00 PM EST

We have your UTEP Miners at Western Kentucky Hilltoppers prop betting and game preview needs covered as the UTEP Miners hit the road to face the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers.

UTEP Miners at Western Kentucky Hilltoppers Odds Info

Best Moneyline Odds: UTEP Miners +700 (BetRivers) / Western Kentucky Hilltoppers -1250 (BetRivers)
Best Spread Odds: -19.5 - UTEP Miners -110 (FanDuel) / Western Kentucky Hilltoppers -110 (FanDuel)
Best Total Odds: 58.5 - Under -110 (DraftKings) / Over -110 (BetMGM)

Game Info

Date: 10/10/2024
Time: 8:00 PM EST
Location: Houchens Industries-L.T. Smith Stadium (Bowling Green, KY)
TV: ESPNU

UTEP Miners at Western Kentucky Hilltoppers Preview

The Western Kentucky Hilltoppers are set to host the UTEP Miners in a Conference USA showdown that appears to be heavily tilted in favor of the home team. The Hilltoppers, with a 3-2 record, are coming off a narrow 21-20 loss to Boston College, a game that showcased their resilience and ability to compete against formidable opponents. Quarterback Caden Veltkamp was a standout performer, throwing for 232 yards and two touchdowns, despite two interceptions. His connection with receiver River Helms, who caught four passes for 72 yards, will be crucial as they look to exploit a struggling UTEP defense.

On the other side, the Miners are still searching for their first win of the season, sitting at 0-5. Their recent 41-21 defeat to Sam Houston highlighted ongoing offensive struggles, despite a change at quarterback. Cade McConnell, who took over the reins, showed some promise with 204 passing yards and a touchdown, but the Miners' offense has consistently failed to produce against FBS competition, scoring 17 or fewer points in three of their four games. Running back Ezell Jolly provided a spark with 76 rushing yards and a touchdown, yet the Miners will need a more comprehensive offensive effort to challenge the Hilltoppers.

Defensively, Western Kentucky has been solid, allowing 21 or fewer points in their last four games. This defensive prowess will be a significant hurdle for UTEP, which has struggled to move the ball effectively. The Hilltoppers' ability to stifle opposing offenses, combined with their potent passing attack, makes them a formidable opponent at home. As the Miners travel to Bowling Green, they face the daunting task of overcoming a 19.5-point spread, a testament to the Hilltoppers' dominance and the Miners' ongoing challenges this season.

UTEP Miners at Western Kentucky Hilltoppers Pick: Western Kentucky Hilltoppers Moneyline

In this Conference USA matchup, the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers are the clear favorites to secure a victory against the UTEP Miners. The Hilltoppers, boasting a 3-2 record, have demonstrated their ability to compete against strong opponents, as evidenced by their narrow 21-20 loss to Boston College. Quarterback Caden Veltkamp has been a key player for Western Kentucky, throwing for 232 yards and two touchdowns in their last outing. His connection with receiver River Helms, who recorded 72 receiving yards against Boston College, will be pivotal in exploiting the Miners' defense.

On the other hand, the UTEP Miners have struggled significantly this season, remaining winless with an 0-5 record. Their recent 41-21 defeat to Sam Houston highlighted their ongoing offensive challenges, even after a change at quarterback. Cade McConnell, who has taken over the starting role, showed some potential with 204 passing yards and a touchdown, but the Miners' offense has consistently faltered against FBS competition, scoring 17 or fewer points in three of their four games. This lack of offensive production will be a major hurdle against a Western Kentucky defense that has allowed 21 or fewer points in their last four games.

Defensively, the Hilltoppers have been solid, and their ability to stifle opposing offenses will be a significant challenge for the Miners. With Western Kentucky's potent passing attack and home-field advantage at Houchens Industries-L.T. Smith Stadium, the Hilltoppers are well-positioned to dominate this matchup. The odds heavily favor Western Kentucky, with a moneyline of -1250, reflecting their superiority over the Miners. Given the Hilltoppers' recent performances and the Miners' struggles, betting on Western Kentucky to win outright is a sound choice.

UTEP Miners at Western Kentucky Hilltoppers Top Player Prop Picks

Caden Veltkamp Over 43.5 Longest Completion -115 (bet365)

Caden Veltkamp has been a standout performer for the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers, showcasing his ability to connect on deep passes. In their recent narrow loss to Boston College, Veltkamp threw for 232 yards, demonstrating his capability to stretch the field. His connection with receiver River Helms, who averaged 18 yards per catch against the Eagles, highlights the potential for explosive plays. Given UTEP's defensive struggles, allowing 41 points to Sam Houston, Veltkamp is well-positioned to exceed the 43.5-yard mark on his longest completion, making this prop a compelling choice.

River Helms Over 30.5 Receiving Yards -113 (Caesars)

River Helms has emerged as a key target in the Hilltoppers' passing attack, evidenced by his 72 receiving yards against Boston College. His ability to find space and make significant gains after the catch makes him a reliable option for Veltkamp. With UTEP's defense having difficulty containing opposing receivers, Helms is likely to surpass the 30.5 receiving yards line. His performance against a strong Boston College defense suggests he can exploit the Miners' vulnerabilities, making this prop a strong pick.

Elijah Young Over 81.5 Rushing Yards -115 (bet365)

Elijah Young has been a consistent force in the Hilltoppers' ground game, carrying the ball 21 times for 85 yards against Boston College. Averaging 4.0 yards per carry, Young has shown the ability to grind out tough yards and maintain offensive momentum. Facing a UTEP defense that has struggled to contain the run, as evidenced by their recent performance against Sam Houston, Young is poised to have a productive outing. With the Hilltoppers likely to control the game flow, Young should have ample opportunities to exceed the 81.5 rushing yards line, making this a favorable prop bet.