With only a few returning starters, Helton leans on WKU’s camaraderie as they prepare for Sam Houston.
Tyson Helton says WKU ready for a ‘tremendous challenge’ in Sam Houston showdown originally appeared on The Sporting News
Western Kentucky head coach Tyson Helton knows his team is ready to stop practicing against each other and finally face an opponent. “Very excited about this coming weekend and the opener at home,” Helton said. “Big conference game against a great opponent Sam Houston. Should be a great game and our guys are excited about the opportunity.”
Helton acknowledged the changes in his roster compared to last year’s opening lineup. “Looking back to last year’s first game and starting lineup, I think I counted one starter back on offense, three on defense. Obviously much different team this year,” he said. “They’re hard workers, number one. They have great camaraderie together. They like to compete. They enjoy the process.”
Thank you to the Bowling Green Hot Rods for having Coach Helton throw out the first pitch tonight!#GoTops | @BGHotRodspic.twitter.com/vpSa56rAOZ
— WKU Football (@WKUFootball) August 21, 2025
The head coach of the Hilltoppers praised Bearkats coach Phil Longo. “First of all, Sam Houston is going to be a really good football team…their head football coach is a fantastic coach…I don’t think he’ll blink. I think he’ll manage the game exceptionally well. I have tremendous respect for him. I know his team will be ready to play.”
The Bearkats bring back stability up front. “They got four out of the five offensive linemen back. So tremendous challenge right out of the gate for our defense.”
Ultimately, Helton believes the energy of the home crowd will help set the tone. “It gets lonely out there practicing in an empty stadium all the time. So, it’ll be great to have the students out there and see the tailgating… It’s what we’ve been working really hard for.”
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