Even if UTEP would contend as the worst team in FBS, the Miners can pull off a cover. They kept Stephen F. Austin from scoring in the final 42 minutes of an opening-week win while Texas was idle, and the Longhorns are breaking in coordinators on offense and defense. With only Big 12 opponents ahead, they likely will treat this as a glorified scrimmage once victory is obvious. Only 12,000 fans will be admitted, thus mitigating the home-field advantage.

This would normally be a spot that compels an argument for the underdog, but this might be the biggest mismatch we see between FBS programs this year. UTEP had to overcome a double-figure deficit last week to beat FCS opponent Stephen F. Austin, which had three wins last year. The Longhorns have a chance to put up gaudy numbers to start the Heisman campaign of QB Sam Ehlinger and they should be solid on the defensive side. Barring a major letdown or a prolonged show of mercy, the Longhorns should cover this and possibly get a shutout in the process.