Bowling Green, Kentucky, October 14, 2025
News Summary
The FIU Panthers will take on the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers in a crucial Conference USA matchup at Houchens Industries-L.T. Smith Stadium. The Panthers aim to improve their record, currently standing at 2-3, while the Hilltoppers, with a record of 5-1, seek to continue their winning streak. Both teams have shown resilience in red-zone situations, but WKU’s recent form gives them the advantage. With the betting line favoring WKU by 9.5 points, the matchup is expected to be intense as both teams strive for victory.
Bowling Green, Kentucky – The FIU Panthers are set to face off against the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers in a key Conference USA battle on Tuesday, October 14, 2023, at 8 p.m. ET. The match will take place at Houchens Industries-L.T. Smith Stadium and will be broadcast on ESPNU.
Currently, the Panthers hold a record of 2-3 overall and 0-1 in Conference USA, while the Hilltoppers boast an impressive 5-1 overall record, with a perfect 3-0 mark in conference play. As the game approaches, the Hilltoppers enter with strong momentum, having won their last three games, including a recent comeback victory over Delaware on October 3 by a score of 27-24. In contrast, FIU has struggled, losing 3 of their last 4 games, including a dominating 51-10 defeat against UConn on October 4, where they allowed a staggering 377 passing yards.
Defensively, the Panthers have faced significant challenges, particularly in their pass coverage. They rank 128th in the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS), allowing an average of 275.8 passing yards per game. The Hilltoppers, on the other hand, are 16th in the nation in passing yards, averaging 306.2 yards per game.
The matchup history shows that the Hilltoppers have the upper hand, leading the series against the Panthers 11-6. Their last encounter in 2023 saw Western Kentucky claim a decisive 41-28 victory over FIU.
As for both teams’ performances in critical situations, they rank favorably in red-zone stops within their conference, with WKU sitting at second and FIU in third place. However, Western Kentucky’s overall defensive ranking is concerning, as they sit at 100th, permitting an average of 394.8 yards per game.
The betting line for this game indicates Western Kentucky is favored by 9.5 points, and it is notable that the under has won in 7 of WKU’s last 10 home games. FIU has displayed resilience in past matchups as they are 5-1 against the spread (ATS) in their last six games as an underdog.
In terms of offensive threats, Matthew Henry from Western Kentucky is a notable player, leading his team in targets, receptions, and receiving yards, making him a key figure to watch during the game. Conversely, FIU will need to enhance its offensive performance, especially since they managed to rack up 304, 363, and 408 total yards in their previous three games against weaker opponents.
Analysts observe that FIU may find it challenging to incite a comeback in a game characterized by fast-paced play due to their reliance on a ground game approach.
Overview
| Feature | FIU Panthers | WKU Hilltoppers |
|---|---|---|
| Record | 2-3 (0-1 CUSA) | 5-1 (3-0 CUSA) |
| Game Date and Time | October 14, 2023, at 8 p.m. ET | October 14, 2023, at 8 p.m. ET |
| Venue | Houchens Industries-L.T. Smith Stadium | Houchens Industries-L.T. Smith Stadium |
| Broadcast Channel | ESPNU | ESPNU |
| Recent Results | L 51-10 against UConn | W 27-24 against Delaware |
| Passing Yards Allowed/Rank | 275.8 (128th in FBS) | 306.2 (16th in FBS) |
| Last Meeting Result | L 41-28 | W 41-28 |
| Betting Line | +9.5 for FIU | -9.5 for WKU |
FAQ
What is the date and time of the game between FIU and WKU?
The game is scheduled for Tuesday, October 14, 2023, at 8 p.m. ET.
Where is the game being held?
The venue for the game is Houchens Industries-L.T. Smith Stadium, located in Bowling Green, Kentucky.
How have the teams performed recently?
The Panthers have lost 3 of their last 4 games, including a 51-10 defeat against UConn. The Hilltoppers are on a 3-game winning streak, most recently defeating Delaware 27-24.
What is the historical record between the teams?
The historical matchup record between FIU and WKU shows the Hilltoppers leading 11-6, with their last meeting in 2023 where WKU defeated FIU 41-28.
Who is a key player for Western Kentucky?
Matthew Henry from WKU is a key player, leading the team in targets, receptions, and receiving yards.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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WKU Women’s Volleyball Team Dominates Louisiana Tech
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WKU Hilltoppers Face Off Against FIU Panthers
WKU Soccer Defeats Missouri State, Ends Unbeaten Streak
WKU to Host FIU in Football Matchup with Black Out Game
Western Kentucky Defeats Delaware in a Nail-Biting Finish
Women’s Volleyball Match Scheduled Between WKU and Wright State
Sam Houston Bearkats Set to Face Western Kentucky Hilltoppers
Additional Resources
- USA Today Sportsbook Wire
- Covers
- VSiN
- Miami Herald
- WKU Sports
- Wikipedia: Florida International Panthers Football
- Google Search: FIU vs WKU Football
- Google Scholar: FIU Western Kentucky Football Analysis
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Football
- Google News: FIU Western Kentucky Football
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