Western Kentucky vs. Delaware Prediction and Game Preview

Western Kentucky vs. Delaware Keys to Victory

1. Western Kentucky QB Maverick McIvor
McIvor was regarded as one of the top transfer quarterback additions by a Group of 5 team this offseason. The senior has certainly lived up to the hype, throwing for 1,474 yards and 11 scores to just two interceptions through five games. McIvor ranks second among CUSA signal-callers in completion rate (66.7) and third in quarterback rating (147.99). 

The senior has help from a strong supporting cast. The Hilltoppers have allowed only eight sacks up front through five games, and the receiving corps is deep with options including receivers Matthew Henry (17 catches), K.D. Hutchinson (17), Moussa Barry (15), and tight end Noah Meyers (15). 

The matchup of Delaware’s secondary against Western Kentucky’s passing attack should favor the Hilltoppers. The Blue Hens allow opponents to connect on nearly 65 percent (64.9) of throws and are tied for No. 128 nationally in pass defense success rate. This secondary isn’t giving up many big plays (just two of 40-plus yards), but UConn threw for 346 yards against this unit, while Colorado (268) and FIU (203) found success.  

2. Delaware’s Ground Game
The best defense for Delaware on Friday night could be a good offense. With Western Kentucky’s ability to put up yards and points in a hurry through the air (321.4 passing yards a contest), the Blue Hens should lean on their running attack to keep McIvor on the sidelines.

Delaware ranks fifth in CUSA in rushing offense (152 yards a game), with the Hilltoppers showing vulnerability (210.8 yards a game allowed) on defense. Running back Jo Silver (326 yards) handles the bulk of the workload, with Viron Ellison (150) and Saeed St. Fleur (27) also pitching in.

If the Blue Hens establish Silver and Ellison, with quarterback Nick Minicucci also contributing on the ground, Carty’s team can control the time of possession and help their defense by limiting McIvor’s opportunities. 

3. Delaware QB Nick Minicucci
The season still has two months to go, but Minicucci is quickly emerging as one of the top stories in Conference USA. After starter Zach Marker was lost for an extended period of time early in the opener, Minicucci stepped into the No. 1 role and has been a bright spot for Delaware’s offense. The junior is completing 65.2 percent of his passes and threw for 1,058 yards and eight touchdowns. Also, Minicucci is capable on the ground with 73 yards and four scores.

Western Kentucky’s defense is giving up only 22.6 points a game, but Helton’s group has faced a favorable slate of offenses to start ‘25. The Hilltoppers rank No. 12 nationally in defensive success rate against the pass, which will be a challenge for Minicucci and receivers Kyre Duplessis (20 catches), and Sean Wilson (17).

Final Score Prediction: Western Kentucky 33, Delaware 30

The team with the ball in its hands last could come out on top. Western Kentucky and Delaware rank as the top scoring offenses in Conference USA, with both teams showing some vulnerability on defense through September. If the Hilltoppers can slow the Blue Hens’ ground game just a bit, McIvor and WKU’s receivers should do enough to clinch a tight victory. 

ATS: Western Kentucky +3
Over/Under: Over 61.5