College Football: Ranking the 10 easiest FBS schedules in 2017

8 of 11

Dec 3, 2016; Bowling Green, KY, USA; Western Kentucky Hilltoppers running back Anthony Wales (20) celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs at Houchens Industries-L.T. Smith Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Brown-USA TODAY Sports /

The two-time defending Conference USA champions could hardly have asked for a better schedule to support the chances of a three-peat. They open the year against FCS Eastern Kentucky (3-8 in 2016) and follow up with a trip to Illinois (3-9). Conference play begins early with a September 16 rematch of last year’s C-USA title game when Louisiana Tech (9-5) comes to Bowling Green.

After that showdown, their only other games against teams with winning records come later in the year in league play. To get out of September and into October, the Hilltoppers play a trio of 4-8 teams — Ball State, UTEP, and Charlotte. They then face off against Old Dominion (10-3) in Norfolk before another run of games against teams with losing records. That includes another chance to beat a Power Five team when they play Vanderbilt (6-7) in Nashville.

The home finale against Middle Tennessee (8-5) on November 18 could ultimately serve as the C-USA East title game. Given the fact that both teams enjoy favorable schedules, the winner will likely have the inside track on the division crown.

Home/College Football News