Houston vs. Marshall 2012: TV schedule, game time, spread and more

The Houston Cougars and the Marshall Thundering Herd will square off on Saturday in a battle of Conference USA teams hoping to salvage bowl eligibility.

Both teams rank near the bottom of the FBS in scoring defense. The 4-6 Cougars, ranked 114th with 37.1 points allowed per game, have been outscored 89-35 in two consecutive losses. The 4-6 Thundering Herd are five spots worse, allowing 41.1 points per contest. In their last game, Marshall nearly overcame a 31-7 deficit to beat UAB, but ultimately fell a touchdown short.

Despite his team's mediocre season, Marshall quarterback Rakeem Cato is having a very strong campaign. Cato has thrown for 3,506 yards and 29 touchdowns while completing nearly 70 percent of his passes. Running back Charles Sims has been Houston's best offensive weapon, rushing for a career-best 849 yards and 11 touchdowns. However, he is doubtful for Saturday's game with an ankle injury.

Game time, TV channel: 12 p.m. ET, Comcast Sports Regional Networks

Online streaming video: C-USA All Access

Point spread: Marshall is favored by 3½ points.

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