In a rare Sunday morning kickoff, the Hilltoppers took a 17-0 lead into halftime at Charlotte and never looked back, defeating the 49ers 37-19 to improve to 5-6 overall and 4-3 in C-USA play.

Western Kentucky was led by an efficient offensive performance by quarterback Tyrrell Pigrome, who finished 18-of-27 passing for 218 yards and one touchdown while also rushing for 60 yards.

Running back Gaej Walker had 98 yards rushing on 19 carries while freshman wide receiver Dakota Thomas led the Hilltoppers in receiving with five catches for 78 yards.

The Hilltoppers defense also chipped in on the scoring as well, with redshirt sophomore defensive back A.J. Brathwate, Jr. scoring on a two-yard return after picking up a Connor Bowler fumble.

That score put the Hilltoppers up 10-0 with 14:44 remaining in the second quarter.

The Hilltoppers held Charlotte to just 90 yards rushing and just 309 yards of total offense. The 49ers were also just 3-of-14 on third down conversions.

Antwon Kincade led Western Kentucky in tackles with nine, while Kyle Bailey chipped in with eight tackles.