Bowling Green, Kentucky, August 24, 2025
News Summary
The college football season kicks off with a matchup between the Sam Houston Bearkats and the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers at Houchens Industries–L.T. Smith Stadium. Set for August 23, 2025, the game will be broadcast on CBS Sports Network with streaming options available. Both teams aim to showcase their strengths early in the season, particularly after Sam Houston’s impressive 2024 season and Western Kentucky’s competitive record. With betting odds favoring the Hilltoppers, fans can expect a thrilling opening to the college football season.
Bowling Green, Kentucky – The 2025 college football season is set to kick off with an exciting matchup between the Sam Houston Bearkats and the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers. The game is scheduled for Saturday, August 23, 2025, with a kickoff time of 7:00 p.m. ET (4:00 p.m. PT) at Houchens Industries–L.T. Smith Stadium in Bowling Green, Kentucky. Fans eager to watch the game can catch it on CBS Sports Network.
For those who prefer streaming, the game will also be available on several platforms compatible with CBS Sports Network, including YouTube TV, Sling TV, Hulu + Live TV, and FuboTV.
The Sam Houston Bearkats, coming off a successful 2024 season where they finished with a 10–3 record and secured a victory in the New Orleans Bowl against Georgia Southern, will be looking to continue their strong performance. Their head coach, Phil Longo, returns to the program this year after previously serving as the offensive coordinator. With an experienced roster competing in Conference USA, the Bearkats aim to build on the momentum they established last season.
On the other hand, the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers wrapped up their 2024 campaign with an 8–6 record under head coach Tyson Helton. Known for their fast-scoring offense and a defense that excels at limiting big plays, the Hilltoppers are expected to be strong contenders in Conference USA. The upcoming game represents an opportunity for both teams to assert their competitiveness early in the season.
Betting odds for the game indicate that Western Kentucky is favored with a point spread of Western Kentucky -10. The moneyline odds are set at Western Kentucky -375 and Sam Houston +295. The over/under for the game has been established at 60.5 points, suggesting expectations for high offensive production from both teams.
This matchup holds significance for both squads as it may impact standings within Conference USA later in the season. Each team has demonstrated the ability to move the ball efficiently, and this early-season game presents an opportunity to calibrate new strategies as both head coaches implement their game plans after offseason changes.
In their previous encounter, which occurred during the last season, Western Kentucky dealt Sam Houston one of their three losses with a decisive 31-14 victory. As opening day approaches, players and coaches are preparing for the challenges ahead, which include the uncertainties surrounding new starters and strategies.
This season opener not only sets the tone for the upcoming college football season but also showcases two teams eager to make their mark within the conference.
FAQ Section
When is the game between Sam Houston and Western Kentucky?
The game is scheduled for Saturday, August 23, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. ET (4:00 p.m. PT).
Where will the game be held?
The game will take place at Houchens Industries–L.T. Smith Stadium in Bowling Green, Kentucky.
How can fans watch the game?
Fans can watch the game on CBS Sports Network, as well as stream it on platforms like YouTube TV, Sling TV, Hulu + Live TV, and FuboTV.
What were the final records for both teams last season?
Sam Houston finished the 2024 season with a 10–3 record, while Western Kentucky ended their season with an 8–6 record.
Key Features of the Upcoming Game
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date | August 23, 2025 |
| Kickoff Time | 7:00 p.m. ET (4:00 p.m. PT) |
| Location | Houchens Industries–L.T. Smith Stadium, Bowling Green, KY |
| Broadcast | CBS Sports Network |
| Betting Odds | Western Kentucky -10 |
| Moneyline Odds | Western Kentucky -375, Sam Houston +295 |
| Over/Under | 60.5 points |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- SWX Local Sports
- Wikipedia: College football
- NJ.com Sports
- Google Search: College Football 2025
- Fox Sports
- Google Scholar: College Football Betting Odds
- BG Daily News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Football (Sport)
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