Not only is Western Kentucky the superior team and playing better than Florida International, but the Hilltoppers have tremendous motivation. Western Kentucky is trying hard to gain a foothold in recruiting Florida players. So they really want to look good here. A possible bowl bid is at stake, too, for Western Kentucky.

Quarterback Mike White came up huge for Western Kentucky last week throwing for 485 yards and five touchdowns in a 41-38 triple overtime victory against Middle Tennessee State. White is a native of Pembroke Pines, Fla., which is only about 25 minutes from where this game is being played. White is one of 11 Florida players on Western Kentucky.

Florida International lost to Middle Tennessee State, 37-17. The Golden Panthers also lost 37-30 at home to Old Dominion, a team Western Kentucky defeated 35-31 on the road earlier this season.

The Golden Panthers are not playing well. In the last two weeks, they've not only lost to Old Dominion, which averages a meager 21 points a game, but also to Florida Atlantic, 52-24. Florida International yielded 333 yards rushing in that loss.

The Hilltoppers have covered four of the last five against the Golden Panthers, including wining 49-21 last year.