(Bowling Green, KY) — WKU Football defeated UTEP 44-17 on Thursday at Houchens-Smith Stadium to remain undefeated at home this season. The Hilltoppers improved to 4-2 overall and 2-0 in Conference USA play, extending their all-time series lead over the Miners to 5-0.

The Hilltoppers jumped to a 27-7 halftime lead. Caden Veltkamp connected with Dalvin Smith for a 30-yard touchdown pass to open the scoring. After UTEP tied the game with a 76-yard touchdown, WKU responded with 20 consecutive points, including a 12-yard touchdown rush by Michael Mathison, a 25-yard field goal by Lucas Carneiro, and a 2-yard touchdown run by Veltkamp.

In the second half, UTEP (0-6, 0-3 CUSA) opened with a 100-yard kickoff return touchdown, cutting WKU’s lead to 27-14. However, Mathison extended the lead with a 14-yard touchdown reception from Veltkamp and a 3-yard touchdown reception in the fourth quarter. Carneiro capped off the scoring with a career-long 54-yard field goal, sealing the 44-17 victory.

Mathison finished with three total touchdowns, marking a career high. Veltkamp passed for 264 yards and three touchdowns, while rushing for one. Elijah Young led the Hilltoppers’ rushing attack with 60 yards.

WKU’s defense posted eight tackles for loss and three sacks. Demarko Williams recorded his first collegiate interception. WKU’s performance featured a total of 462 yards, with 276 through the air and 186 on the ground.

The Hilltoppers are 3-0 at home for the second consecutive season and will face Sam Houston on Wednesday, Oct. 16, in Huntsville, Texas.