Welcome to the vibrant Game Thread. For those of you who are seasoned veterans, you’re familiar with the laid-back but engaging atmosphere we foster here. However, for newcomers venturing in, it’s crucial to adhere to a few fundamental rules. Our community guidelines encourage respectful dialogue, strictly prohibiting personal attacks and trolling behavior. Let’s keep our space friendly and welcoming.
Date: Saturday, November 23, 2024
Time: 3:30 PM ET
Location: Milan Puskar Stadium, Morgantown, West Virginia – a historic venue renowned for its passionate fanbase and electric atmosphere.
Channel: ESPNU | DirecTV Channel 208 | Dish Channel 141, ensuring you won’t miss a moment of the action.
Announcers: Experience the game with play-by-play commentary from Mike Monaco, expert analysis by Kirk Morrison, and on-the-ground updates from sideline reporter Dawn Davenport.
Online Streaming: Catch the game live on ESPN (requires a valid cable subscription).
Cord Cutters: Mountaineer fans can catch all the action on fuboTV, which provides a comprehensive over-the-top streaming service featuring major networks like CBS, NBC, FOX, as well as the ESPN Disney networks! Furthermore, fuboTV includes a cloud DVR feature, allowing you to easily record the game and enjoy it later at your leisure.
Radio: Tune in to the Mountaineer Sports Network from IMG for live coverage (Radio Affiliates), SiriusXM Channel 94 or 203, and Streaming Channel 965. You can also access the action via the WVU Gameday App for both Apple and Android.
Radio Announcers: Enjoy the call from Tony Caridi (PBP), analyst Dwight Wallace, and sideline reporter Jed Drenning, alongside the insights from Andrew Caridi and John Antonik during the Pre/Postgame Show.
Betting Odds: UCF is currently favored by 3 points with a total over/under of 61 points, according to DraftKings Sportsbook.
THE ENEMY
Where are they from? UCF hails from Orlando, Florida, known for its vibrant sports culture.
Series History: West Virginia boasts an impressive all-time record of 3-0 against UCF. The rivalry kicked off back in 2003, with the Mountaineers triumphing 36-18 in Morgantown. In a rematch in 2004, they again emerged victorious with a convincing 45-20 win in Orlando. Their most recent clash in the 2023 season marked their inaugural encounter as Big 12 foes, where West Virginia clinched a 41-28 road win.
Current Record: UCF enters this matchup with a record of 4-6 (2-5 in Big 12 play) after a narrow defeat by Arizona State, ending in a tight 35-31 loss on November 9th.
2023 Record: Last season, UCF finished with a 6-7 record (3-6 in Big 12), suffering a setback against Georgia Tech, losing 30-17 in the Union Home Mortgage Gasparilla Bowl.
Head Coach: The Knights are directed by Gus Malzahn in his fourth season, bringing experience and strategy to the field.
WVU Football Podcast: Baylor Review & UCF Preview | The Smoking Musket
Tune in as Jordan and Jake Lantz delve into the last home game’s results and provide an insightful preview of the upcoming clash against UCF.
Engage with us on Twitter @smokingmusket for real-time commentary and connect with fellow fans in The Smoking Musket Varsity Club Discord channel.
Settle into a cozy spot, pour yourself a favorite beverage, and join in the lively commentary and spirited discussions in the comments below as we share observations, emotions, cheers, and celebrations throughout the game.
And, as always…
What key factors will determine the outcome of the West Virginia vs. UCF game according to Kirk Morrison’s analysis?
**Interview with Kirk Morrison, Analyst for the Upcoming UCF vs. West Virginia Game**
**Interviewer:** Kirk, thanks for joining us today! As we gear up for the game on November 23rd at Milan Puskar Stadium, what are your thoughts on West Virginia’s performance so far this season?
**Kirk Morrison:** Thanks for having me! West Virginia has shown some strong moments this season. Their defense has been key in tight games, and their home crowd can be a real advantage. Playing at home in Morgantown is something that can rattle opponents, especially in an electric atmosphere.
**Interviewer:** Speaking of the crowd, what do you think makes Milan Puskar Stadium such a special venue?
**Kirk Morrison:** It’s the passion of the fans, without a doubt. The Mountaineer faithful really create an intimidating environment for visiting teams. The history and tradition associated with West Virginia football really resonate throughout the stadium, making it a tough place to play.
**Interviewer:** UCF is coming in as the favorite by 3 points according to DraftKings. How do you see this matchup playing out?
**Kirk Morrison:** UCF has a potent offense, and their speed can pose problems for any defense. However, given West Virginia’s history against UCF—being 3-0 overall in this matchup—it’s going to be a battle. The game could very well come down to how well West Virginia can contain their offensive threats.
**Interviewer:** With Mike Monaco on commentary and Dawn Davenport reporting from the sidelines, what can fans expect from the broadcast experience?
**Kirk Morrison:** Our team is committed to giving fans an engaging experience. Mike will provide insightful play-by-play, while I’ll break down strategies and key plays. Dawn will keep everyone informed about the on-field happenings, so viewers can expect an immersive experience.
**Interviewer:** For those unable to attend in person, what streaming options are available?
**Kirk Morrison:** Fans can catch the game live on ESPN—make sure you have a valid cable subscription for that—or, for cord-cutters, fuboTV is a great option with major networks and an easy-to-use cloud DVR for recording. Plus, our radio coverage on the Mountaineer Sports Network will keep fans updated throughout the game.
**Interviewer:** Lastly, Kirk, any final thoughts as we prepare for what promises to be an exciting matchup?
**Kirk Morrison:** Just that I’m looking forward to an intense rivalry game! I hope fans remember to keep the atmosphere respectful and lively, aligning with the community guidelines we stand by. Let’s make it a great day for football!
**Interviewer:** Appreciate your insights, Kirk! We’re all looking forward to the game!