TCU Heavy Favorite as WVU Hit by Injuries

West Virginia (2-5, 0-4) hosts TCU (5-2, 2-2) Saturday at 6:00 p.m. ET on ESPN+, with TCU a heavy favorite as the spread has moved from about -13.5 to as much as -17.5. Computer models and experts give WVU only low-teens chances to win (ESPN FPI ~18%, PFF ~12%, SP+ ~16%), and analysts overwhelmingly favor TCU. TCU will be shorthanded — WR Ed Small, OG Cade Bennett, CB Elijah Jackson and K Kyle Lemmermann are listed OUT, RB Jeremy Payne is doubtful, and WR Jordyn Bailey and RB Kevorian Barnes are probable — but the Horned Frogs enter after a 42–36 win over Baylor. West Virginia’s injuries have further depleted its quarterback room, with Nicco Marchiol, Jaylen Henderson and Khalil Wilkins unavailable or downgraded, leaving very thin depth, and the Mountaineers have also been hampered up front (including DL Hammond Russell IV). Given the QB uncertainty and multiple injuries on both lines, analysts see a sizable, injury-driven gap that favors TCU.