No. 13 Central Washington hosts UT Permian Basin on Saturday with first place in the Lone Star Conference at stake. The Wildcats are unbeaten in conference play, while the Falcons arrive at 4-1 in the league after a loss to Western Oregon. CWU is coming off a 52-49 win over Texas A&M-Kingsville, sealed by a late field goal and an interception.

By the Numbers
  • Central Washington: 5-2 overall, 5-0 in the LSC.
  • UT Permian Basin: 5-2 overall, 4-1 in the LSC.
  • Ryder Bumgarner ran for 165 yards and tied a CWU school record with 5 touchdowns last week.
  • UTPB’s defense has recorded 16 interceptions this season.
Yes, But

CWU’s high-powered rushing attack will face a dangerous, turnover-forcing UTPB defense. The Falcons also bring postseason experience and a balanced offense, but they are coming off a 38-19 home loss to Western Oregon.

What’s Next

Kickoff is Saturday at 6 p.m. at Tomlinson Stadium in Ellensburg. CWU then travels to face Eastern New Mexico on Halloween.

Bottom Line

The Wildcats can strengthen their hold on the conference lead with a win, but UTPB’s interception threat makes ball security crucial.