Eastern Kentucky vs Western Kentucky Picks and Prediction – 9/7/2024

Eastern Kentucky and Western Kentucky both enter this matchup with 0-1 records after suffering significant defeats in the season openers. Eastern Kentucky was dominated by Mississippi State, losing 56-7, while Western Kentucky was shut out 63-0 by Alabama. Both teams will be looking to bounce back and secure a first win of the season. Dominate the college scene with our College Football picks.

Eastern Kentucky struggled mightily against Mississippi State, particularly on the defensive side of the ball. The Colonels allowed 56 points, unable to stop the Bulldogs' offense at any level. On offense, quarterback Matt Morrissey had a rough outing, completing 22 of 38 passes for 169 yards with one touchdown and one interception. Joshua Carter provided the only spark in the running game, gaining 75 yards on 19 carries. The Colonels will need a much-improved defensive performance to have a chance in this game, particularly in stopping the run and avoiding big plays through the air.

Offensively, Eastern Kentucky must find more consistency and efficiency. Morrissey needs to elevate his play, and the Colonels need to establish the ground game early to control the pace of the game. The receiving corps, led by Marcus Calwise Jr., who had 45 yards on five receptions, must also step up to provide more options in the passing game. Defensively, the Colonels must focus on tightening up the secondary and applying more pressure on the opposing quarterback to avoid a repeat of its opening-week disaster.

Western Kentucky faced a similarly difficult challenge in the opener against Alabama, where they were shut out 63-0. The Hilltoppers’ offense was stifled, with quarterback TJ Finley throwing for only 92 yards and two interceptions. The running game was nearly nonexistent, as Elijah Young managed just 18 yards on 10 carries. For the Hilltoppers to rebound, they must find ways to generate offense, starting with better protection for Finley and more effective running plays.

Defensively, the Hilltoppers need to regroup after allowing 63 points in the opener. They were outclassed in every facet of the game against Alabama but will look to take advantage of Eastern Kentucky's struggles. The defense will need to create turnovers and put pressure on Morrissey to control the game. Additionally, improving the run defense will be crucial to preventing Eastern Kentucky from finding any rhythm on offense.

Despite both teams coming off lopsided losses, Western Kentucky’s defense and home-field advantage give them the edge. Look for them to control the game defensively and generate just enough offense to secure a win. Final Score Prediction: Western Kentucky wins 24-10.