Western Kentucky @ Alabama preview

Last Meeting ( Sep 13, 2008 ) Western Kentucky 7, Alabama 41

Alabama impressed the nation enough after its 41-14 victory over Michigan to be vaulted into college football's top ranking this week. The Crimson Tide now must avoid the proverbial trap game when they host Western Kentucky on Saturday. The Hilltoppers, in their fourth season of FBS membership, have won eight of nine overall dating back to last year, but haven't defeated a current member of the FBS outside the Sun Belt Conference.

TV: 3:39 p.m. ET, SEC Network. LINE: Alabama -40

ABOUT WESTERN KENTUCKY (1-0): The Hilltoppers began the post-Bobby Rainey era with a 49-10 victory at home against Austin Peay – an FCS program. It was their first season-opening victory since 2005. Senior quarterback Kawaun Jakes threw for a career-high 296 yards and four touchdowns. The Hilltoppers held Austin Peay to 154 yards of total offense, including 11 passing. Rainey rushed for 1,695 yards last season before making the Baltimore Ravens 53-man roster last week.

ABOUT ALABAMA (1-0): The Crimson Tide raced out to a 31-7 halftime lead against Michigan in a much-anticipated game that didn't live up to the hype in Arlington, Texas. Freshman running back T.J. Yeldon rushed for 111 yards on only 11 carries. Junior quarterback AJ McCarron threw for 199 yards and two scores. Alabama held Michigan to 69 yards rushing.

EXTRA POINTS

1. Western Kentucky coach Willie Taggart has won 8 of 9 games after starting his career 2-14.

2. Alabama junior Dee Milliner was named SEC Defensive Player of the Week after collecting four pass breakups, an interception and five tackles against Michigan.

3. Alabama's C.J. Mosley returned an interception for a touchdown against Michigan, tying a school record of three interceptions returned for a touchdown in a Crimson Tide career.

PREDICTION: Alabama 38, Western Kentucky 7