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Doug Smock: Western Kentucky has quickly climbed to the top of Conference USA

Western Kentucky wide receiver Taywan Taylor (2) catches a touchdown pass in the Hilltoppers’ win over North Texas on Nov. 12.

WHEN CONFERENCE USA underwent its membership upheaval earlier this decade, nine new schools were brought on board.

The ninth was Western Kentucky University. It probably should have been first, or somewhere near the head of the line.

As the league sought a footing in some larger media markets, Bowling Green, Kentucky, wasn’t a sexy choice. But it did fit the profile of a football program with “upside” — remember, the Hilltoppers are in just their ninth season in the FBS.