Bowling Green, August 25, 2025
News Summary
Western Kentucky University (WKU) Football showcased a dominant performance, defeating Sam Houston 41-24. Following this win, WKU swept the Conference USA weekly awards, with standout performances from Maverick McIvor, Jaylen Lewis, Cole Maynard, and Laurence Seymore. McIvor threw for 401 yards and four touchdowns, while Lewis contributed with key defensive plays. Looking forward, WKU aims to continue their success in the upcoming game against North Alabama.
Bowling Green: WKU Football Sweeps Conference USA Awards After Dominating Victory
Western Kentucky University (WKU) Football delivered an impressive performance, triumphing 41-24 over Sam Houston in their Week 0 matchup on August 23, 2025 at Houchens-Smith Stadium. Following this crucial victory, the team swept the Conference USA (CUSA) weekly awards, highlighting their formidable display on both offense and defense.
Quarterback Maverick McIvor earned the title of CUSA Offensive Player of the Week, showcasing an exceptional debut in which he threw for 401 yards, completed 33 of 51 passes, and secured four touchdowns—three through the air and one on the ground. Notably, McIvor’s performance featured eight passes of 15 or more yards and six completions of 20 or more yards, reinforcing his ability to lead the WKU offense effectively.
Defensive standout Jaylen Lewis was awarded CUSA Defensive Player of the Week honors after contributing four tackles and intercepting a critical pass in the fourth quarter, helping WKU maintain its lead and ultimately secure the win. On special teams, Cole Maynard was recognized as the CUSA Special Teams Player of the Week, averaging an impressive 50 yards per punt over five attempts, including a long 71-yard punt—the first of its kind by a WKU punter since 2012.
WKU’s offensive line was bolstered by Laurence Seymore, who attained the CUSA Offensive Lineman of the Week title with a remarkable pass-blocking grade of 88.7—leading all WKU linemen during the game. Additionally, running back Marvis Parrish, in his first collegiate game, showcased his talent with 110 all-purpose yards, including 52 rushing yards and 58 receiving yards, capped off with a touchdown on a 22-yard reception from McIvor.
Overall, WKU accumulated a total of 506 yards of offense during the match, marking a strong start to their season. The Hilltoppers are scheduled to face North Alabama next, with the game set for August 30, 2025, at 6 p.m. CT, where fans can watch the action streamed on ESPN+.
Key Player Highlights
- Maverick McIvor: 401 passing yards, 4 total touchdowns (3 passing, 1 rushing), 33 completions on 51 attempts.
- Jaylen Lewis: 4 tackles, 1 interception.
- Cole Maynard: Averaged 50 yards per punt, with a long of 71 yards.
- Laurence Seymore: Pass-blocking grade of 88.7.
- Marvis Parrish: 110 all-purpose yards, 52 rushing yards, 58 receiving yards, and 1 touchdown.
Upcoming Matchup
WKU will look to build on their success when they take on North Alabama next. Fans are encouraged to tune in on August 30th to witness another exciting game.
FAQ
What was the final score of the WKU vs. Sam Houston game?
The final score was 41-24 in favor of WKU.
Who received the CUSA Offensive Player of the Week award?
Maverick McIvor received the CUSA Offensive Player of the Week award.
How many touchdowns did Maverick McIvor score in the game?
Maverick McIvor scored a total of four touchdowns—three passing and one rushing.
When will WKU play their next game?
WKU will play against North Alabama on August 30, 2025, at 6 p.m. CT.
Where can fans watch the next WKU football game?
Fans can watch the game streamed on ESPN+.
Key Features at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Final Score | WKU 41, Sam Houston 24 |
| Offensive Player of the Week | Maverick McIvor |
| Defensive Player of the Week | Jaylen Lewis |
| Special Teams Player of the Week | Cole Maynard |
| Freshman of the Week | Marvis Parrish |
| Next Game | August 30, 2025, vs North Alabama at 6 p.m. CT |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
WKU Football Opens Season with Victory Over Sam Houston
Western Kentucky Defeats Sam Houston State 41-24
Jim Ivey and 1975 WKU Football Team Inducted into Hall of Fame
Western Kentucky Hilltoppers Defeat Sam Houston Bearkats in Opener
WKU Triumphs Over Sam Houston in Season Opener
Bowling Green Hot Rods Fall to Greensboro Grasshoppers
Sam Houston Bearkats Face Western Kentucky Hilltoppers
Sam Houston Set to Face Western Kentucky in Season Opener
WKU Secures Victory Over Sam Houston in Season Opener
Bowling Green Prepares for 2025 Football Season
Additional Resources
- WKU Sports: Hilltoppers Sweep CUSA Awards
- WKU Herald: WKU Football Preseason Watchlists
- WBKO: WKU Alumni to be Honored
- WNKY: Jackson Named to Wuerffel Trophy Watch List
- BG Daily News: WKU Football Updates
- Wikipedia: Western Kentucky University
- Google Search: WKU Football
- Google Scholar: WKU Football
- Encyclopedia Britannica: WKU Football
- Google News: WKU Football
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