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OGDEN — The first week of Big Sky Conference play saw many of the league’s traditional powers continue their dominance. However, one of the league’s traditional losers found its way to a conference-opening victory as well.
Idaho State’s 44-24 win over Sacramento State was the league’s biggest surprise in opening weekend. Quarterback Justin Arias threw for 413 yards and two touchdowns, and the Bengals outscored the Hornets 20-7 in the second half, after leading 24-17 at halftime.
Several traditional powers opened conference play with a victory, including defending champion Eastern Washington. The Eagles picked up a road victory over UC Davis, 37-14, behind quarterback Vernon Adams who passed for 303 yards and two touchdowns.
Also, Montana beat Northern Colorado, 38-13. The Grizzlies jumped out to 28-7 first-quarter lead. The Grizzlies’ Travon Van, who finished with 127 yards on just nine carrier, scored a highlight touchdown on a 71-yard run.
This week's marquee matchup features the Idaho State Bengals traveling to Eastern Washington to take on the Eagles.
Montana State outlasted North Dakota, 29-18. Like its in-state rival, the Bobcats had a large early lead, 26-7, at halftime.
Two of the league’s were decided by a field goal. Northern Arizona (3-2) outlasted Cal Poly, 38-35, thanks to four touchdowns passes from quarterback Chase Cartwright.
Southern Utah, an FCS playoff qualifier last season, beat Weber State 31-28. The Thunderbirds jumped out to a 10-0 lead before Weber fought back and took a 17-10 lead. The Wildcats held a 28-24 lead going into the fourth quarter, but Southern Utah’s Mike Sharp caught an 8-yard go-ahead touchdown pass from quarterback Ammon Olsen early in the fourth quarter.
Next week’s games includes Montana traveling to North Dakota; Northern Arizona taking on Northern Colorado; and Idaho State traveling to take on Eastern Washington. Other games include UC Davis versus Portland State; Montana State taking on Sacramento State; and Southern Utah traveling to Cal Poly.
