There was not much reason for optimism at UTEP in Scotty Walden’s first season as head coach.
The Miners opened the year with six straight losses, including an overtime loss against FCS Southern Utah. None of those contests were even decided by less than 10 points.
But UTEP did earn a few Conference USA victories down the stretch, including an exhilarating 43-35 double-overtime triumph over Kennesaw State.
But now expectations will ramp up a little bit for Walden and the Miners. And it’s very possible UTEP ends up giving fans something to cheer for.
And that could start with a Week 1 win.
UTEP vs. Utah State Betting Odds
Utah State is a -6 college football betting odds favorite against UTEP, with the Over/Under being 60.5.
The moneyline for UTEP is +185, while it’s -225 for Utah State.
UTEP vs. Utah State On TV
The matchup between UTEP and Utah State will be televised on CBSSN.
The game will kick off at 7:30 p.m. ET on Saturday, Aug. 30. The contest is taking place at Maverik Stadium in Logan, Utah.
UTEP vs. Utah State Prediction
I predict UTEP will win and cover the six-point spread. I also project the game will go Over 60.5 total points.
UTEP’s success will likely depend on how well Malachi Nelson performs in his first start for the Miners at quarterback. Nelson is a former five-star prospect and was the No. 1-ranked recruit by ESPN coming out of high school in 2022. He redshirted at USC in 2023 and spent last season at Boise State but lost the battle to become the Broncos’ starter.
Nelson will have some talent to work with.
Kam Thomas, who’s a Miner Back in UTEP’s offense, tied for a team lead with 47 catches while recording 532 yards and two touchdowns through the air last year. He also was a first-team All-CUSA punt returner, returning 10 punts for 100 yards and a touchdown last season while also leading the team with 112 kick return yards.
Kenny Odom is also back after making the All-CUSA second team. He led UTEP with 741 yards and eight touchdowns receiving on 46 catches. UTEP added several pass catchers through the transfer portal as well.
On the offensive line, center Ivan Escobar, tackles Jaquan Toney and Azizi Henry, and left guard Joseph Immediato are all returning after each making multiple starts a season ago.
I expect Utah State to put up some points in this matchup as well. But I think the Miners are capable of winning in a high-scoring contest.
