Overview
- Kickoff is 5:30 p.m. ET on ESPN from the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans.
- Most players are available for both teams, though Western Kentucky will be without running back La’Vell Wright.
- Western Kentucky expects both quarterbacks Maverick McIvor and Rodney Tisdale to be available after an in-season injury shuffle.
- Odds vary by sportsbook, with some listing Southern Miss -1.5 and others Western Kentucky -2.5, and a SportsLine model projecting the Under on a total near 58.5.
- Analysts at multiple outlets back Western Kentucky -2.5, noting efficiency and third-down edges, as WKU enters 8-4 with a 4-0 series mark and Southern Miss arrives 7-5 after organized bowl-week preparations in New Orleans.