No. 8 UTC (7-1, 5-1 SoCon) at Western Carolina (1-6, 0-5)
3:30 p.m. > E.J. Whitmire Stadium, Cullowhee, N.C.
CW Chattanooga & 96.1 FM
THE MATCHUP
Western Carolina is going to have to find a way to block UTC, as no team in the Southern Conference has been sacked as much as the Catamounts' 20 times. No team in the SoCon has as many sacks as the Mocs' 20, including a six-sack performance last week against VMI. The Catamounts may try to roll athetic quarterback Tyrie Adams out of the pocket, but that could fall right into the hands of the Mocs' athletic defensive line and linebackers.
ONE TO WATCH
It was Richardre Bagley's week last week, and it could be his again this week. The UTC backfield is awaiting opportunities against a Western Carolina team that ranks last in the country against the run, and while Bagley could be primed for another big day, it also could be a big one for backup Alex Trotter, who had eight carries for 31 yards against VMI in his most extensive career action and could receive even more action against the Catamounts.
IN THE END
Sixty minutes away from some much-needed rest, the Mocs will be pressed early against WCU, which has a number of playmakers on both sides of the ball despite its record. But eventually the run game will be established and the Mocs will equal their best start since 1977.
Prediction
UTC 35, Western Carolina 20