The improvement arc for the UTEP secondary was quick and dramatic in Week 1 against Stephen F. Austin.
Terrible for 13 minutes, they were superb the last 47 and turned the game with a Duron Lowe fourth-quarter interception.
That curve needs to continue, because this week the hill is about as steep as it gets.
Following their success against a Football Championship Subdivision school, the Miners take their shot at Heisman candidate Sam Ehlinger, one of the best quarterbacks in the nation.
The receiver group around him is a bit of a mystery, but one full of top recruits and loaded with talent.