Western Kentucky stormed to a 41-24 victory over Sam Houston behind quarterback Maverick McIvor's three touchdown passes and rushing score. The Bearkats briefly took a 24-20 third-quarter lead after JaMair Diaz's 43-yard fumble return touchdown, but the Hilltoppers responded with three unanswered touchdowns to seal the win. McIvor's connections with Matthew Henry, K.D. Hutchinson, and Marvis Parrish through the air highlighted an explosive offensive performance for Western Kentucky at home.