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The Troy Trojans play host to the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers on Saturday night in a non-conference showdown from Veterans Memorial Stadium. The Hilltoppers hit the road for the second-straight week, hoping to get back into the win column. For Troy, it has been a slower than expected start for a team that has dominated the Sun Belt over the last few seasons, hoping to halt a two-game losing streak themselves. Last season, troy came away with a seven-point win, while they've gone 6-2 over the eight meetings between these teams all-time. This should be a close one and could end up just as exciting as last season's affair.
Western Kentucky jumped out to a 2-0 start but a trip to Columbus last weekend quickly put them back in the loss column. It wasn't a surprising defeat, though the defense will need to sharpen their skills, as allowing 63 points is always a concern. The first two weeks saw them play what will likely be the two easiest teams on their schedule, with this game against Troy marking itself down as a strong test. There's no doubt that the Hilltoppers haven't forgotten about losing at home to the Trojans last season and they'll want to find a way to grab revenge from that performance. Leading into the season, they had won three of their last four road games, so they'll be aiming to have that same road focus in this one.
The Hilltoppers have a trio of injuries that they continue to battle, all on the offensive end. Trevor Borland (arm) is questionable at tight end, while Michael Ma thison (hip) continue to be ruled out. Dalvin Smith (foot) is questionable and is the name to keep an eye on. The wide receiver already has nine catches and a touchdown on the season and has been a key depth piece.
Pegged as one of the best offenses in the country last season, they have been a little slower to grow into themselves in 2023. The lack of a solid ground game has hurt, with them ranked outside the top 100 but they were always going to be a pass-heavy group. They rank sixth in pass attempts per game and there's little reason to think that they won't stick to that plan on Saturday. Austin Reed (7 touchdowns, 1 interception) is elite, while a wide receiver room that runs four deep gives him plenty of options. On the defensive side, all eyes will be on Upton Stout, the do-everything defensive back. He leads the team with three sacks, while also adding an interception and defensive touchdown. The more his name is called, the better chance the n ight will be going well for the Hilltoppers on the road.
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