Western Kentucky QB Bailey Zappe, the nation’s passing leader, could meet his match. The Appalachian State defense has yielded an average of 11 points in the five closing games and ranks 12th in pass-prevention efficiency. The Mountaineers played Miami to within two points. Their QB, Clemson transfer Chase Brice, is no slouch. App State has mastered the art of bowling, with six consecutive straight-up wins.

Appalachian State is really strong on defense, but I worry about an offense that has inconsistent QB play, which could lead to some lost possessions against WKU. Hilltoppers QB Bailey Zappe is on the cusp of breaking Joe Burrow's single-season TD passing record in this game, and I believe he and that passing game will seek that out as a goal.