Third and Long: Big Sky - Title travels through Treasure State
7/28/2003 12:00:00 AM | Football
Philadelphia, PA (Sports Network) - The Big Sky Conference office is located in Ogden, Utah. But the heart of the league, at least from a football standpoint, resides somewhere in the 200 mile stretch of I-90 connecting Missoula to Bozeman.
The University of Montana Grizzlies, as most I-AA fans are aware, have been the Big Sky's showcase program for the past decade. The packed houses at gorgeous and ever-expanding Washington-Grizzly Stadium have witnessed 10 straight playoff appearances, two national titles, a Walter Payton Award winner in Dave Dickenson and two head coaches that have gone on to take I-A jobs. And yet Montana State fans, who had tasted little in the way of on-field success since the Grizzlies' rise to prominence, are calling it even.
That's because the Bobcats went into Washington-Grizzly last Nov. 23 and emerged as 10-7 victors, snapping a 16-game losing streak in the series and winning in Missoula for the first time since 1984. Mike Kramer's club won a share of the Big Sky title and an automatic playoff bid, facts on the tips of the tongues of MSU supporters and yet exceedingly annoying to Griz fans, like the first time your little brother beats you in one-on-one and won't shut up about it.
The heat in the always-intense rivalry has grown suffocating to both programs, which (oh by the way) will have to face six other Big Sky teams before they meet face-to-face in Bozeman on Nov. 22. Idaho State, though almost no one outside of Pocatello seems to remember, finished in a three-way tie for the league title last year (the Bengals were denied an at-large playoff berth) and is expected to be in the championship mix once again, and teams like Eastern Washington and Sacramento State also think they can challenge the "Treasure State two."
Below is a team-by-team breakdown of the 2003 Big Sky race, with teams ranked according to The Sports Network's predicted order of finish.
Sports Network Predicted Order of Finish:
1. Montana 2. Montana State 3. Idaho State 4. Eastern Washington 5. Sacramento State 6. Northern Arizona 7. Portland State 8. Weber State
1. MONTANA (11-3, 5-2 in Big Sky)
COACH (RECORD): Bobby Hauck (First Season at Montana)
MAJOR DEPARTURES: QB John Edwards (3209 passing yards, 20 TD), RB David Gober (480 yards, 5 TD), S Trey Young (92 tackles, 11 sacks), CB Johnnie Peeples (2 INT), P Mark Spencer (38.4 avg.)
OFFENSIVE STAR: QB Jeff Disney (Transfer/Chaffey CC) or QB Craig Ochs (Transfer/Colorado)
DEFENSIVE STAR: DE Tim Bush (67 tackles, 13 sacks)
OTHER KEY PIECES: RB J.R. Waller (826 yards, 7 TD), TE Conor Molloy (14 receptions), WR/RS Levander Segars (51 receptions, 10.3 punt return avg.), WR Jon Talmage (50 receptions, 5 TD), WR Tate Hancock (37 receptions, 6 TD), T Dylan McFarland, T Jon Skinner, G Derek Decker, G Cory Procter, DE Ciche Pitcher (17 tackles), DT Blake Horgan (95 tackles), DT John Cahill (60 tackles), LB Joel Robinson (75 tackles), LB Adam Hoge (65 tackles), CB Vernon Smith (6 INT), S Dave DeCoite (95 tackles), K Chris Snyder (19-32 FG)
NEWCOMERS OF NOTE: RB Justin Green (Transfer/San Diego Mesa CC), C Jay Green (Transfer/Utah State)
SCHEDULE: The Grizzlies open with an intriguing matchup at Maine (8/30), but will leave Missoula just once between Labor Day and Halloween (10/18 at Idaho State). Rivalry games with Idaho (9/27) and Portland State (10/25) are the feature attractions at newly expanded Washington-Grizzly Stadium, and road tilts at Northern Arizona (11/1), Sacramento State (11/8), and Montana State (11/22) define a difficult November,
PROGNOSIS: Only Montana could lose a successful starting quarterback, lack a proven rusher, have injury concerns on the defensive line, need another solid corner, lack a proven punter, bring on a new coaching staff with a different offensive system, and still be picked to win the league and finish in the national top five. That's the situation for the Grizzlies, who have some definite question marks but should continue their dominance in the first year of the Hauck era. The key areas of strength for Montana are on both lines. McFarland is one of five returning starters in the offensive trenches, and no fewer than six All-America-quality players are back on the defensive line. The offense should flow nicely provided both Disney and Ochs don't both fall flat on their faces and Waller can be productive with a bigger share of the workload. The most glaring need is at corner, where freshmen Nathan Adkins and Tuff Harris are vying for a starting job alongside Smith. But advance reviews on Hauck, his staff, and his offense have been positive, and the new coach should have little trouble plugging Montana's holes and getting the team into national title contention.
2. MONTANA STATE (7-6, 5-2 Big Sky)
COACH (RECORD): Mike Kramer (12-23 in three seasons at MSU, 49-55 overall)
MAJOR DEPARTURES: WR Junior Adams (66 receptions, 8 TD), RB Ryan Johnson (1092 yards, 7 TD), WR Aaron Hill (47 receptions, 9 TD), T Brian Choi, G Mike Quast, DT Jason Nicastro (4.5 sacks), LB David Smith (83 tackles), LB Isaac Gardner (47 tackles)
OFFENSIVE STAR: QB Travis Lulay (2064 passing yards, 14 TD, 5 INT)
DEFENSIVE STAR: S Kane Ioane (127 tackles, 4 INT)
OTHER KEY PIECES: WR Scott Turnquist (36 receptions), T Brent Swaggert, G Mataio Toilolo, C Nic Stevenson, TE Blake Wolf (4 receptions), DE Jon Montoya (9.5 sacks), DE Adam Cordeiro (5.5 sacks), DT Ray Sebestyen (46 tackles), CB Joey Thomas (16 tackles), CB Kahiam Hunter (32 tackles), S Kenneth Qualls (93 tackles), P/K Nate Cook (12-19 FG, 39.0 punting avg.), RS Corey Smith (14.6 punt return avg., 19.1 kickoff return avg.)
NEWCOMERS OF NOTE: WR Eddie Sullivan (Transfer/Palomar JC), WR Brandon Roosevelt (Redshirt Freshman), G Joaquin Echauri (Transfer/Butte JC), C Lawrence Figueroa (Transfer/Baskersfield JC), T Chris Haynes (Transfer/C. Canyons), LB Jason Gathing (Transfer/American River JC), LB Jonathan Molock (Transfer/Cal State Northridge)
SCHEDULE: The opening trip to I-A Wyoming (8/30) won't be easy, but consecutive non-conference games against Gardner-Webb (9/6), Cal Poly (9/20), Northern Colorado (9/27), and Saint Mary's (10/4) will all but ensure a good start. Idaho State (10/11), Northern Arizona (10/25), Sacramento State (11/1), and Montana (11/22) will all travel to Bozeman, and the toughest league trips will be to Eastern Washington (11/8) and Portland State (11/15).
PROGNOSIS: The Bobcats enter 2003 with significant question marks on both sides of the ball, but there appears to be enough in the cupboard for another Big Sky title run. Lulay played over his head as a true freshman, and will be expected to be the offensive leader despite the fact that he'll enter the year still a teenager. Lulay will play behind a veteran offensive line, important since MSU's primary receivers (likely Sullivan and Roosevelt) will be new to the lineup as will the starting tailback (sophomore David Mayfield or freshman Jimmy Beal). The defensive line, led by Montoya and Cordeiro, is a team strength as is the Big Sky's top secondary, led by Ioane and Thomas. Kramer's offseason JC acquisitions should solidify the linebacking corps, and the special teams look to be in good shape. The Cats won't plow through their schedule and into December, but there looks to be enough talent in place for another postseason trip.
3. IDAHO STATE (8-3, 5-2 Big Sky)
COACH (RECORD): Larry Lewis (22-22 in four seasons)
MAJOR DEPARTURES: QB Doug Baughman (2936 passing yards, 21 TD, 11 INT), WR Eugene Mirador (47 receptions), C Corey Brown, DT Eric Boose (47 tackles), LB Bart Brooks (100 tackles), LB Audie Attar (82 tackles), P Eddie Johnson (46.2 avg.)
OFFENSIVE STAR: RB Isaac Mitchell (968 yards, 12 TD)
DEFENSIVE STAR: DE Jared Allen (10.5 sacks)
OTHER KEY PIECES: QB Caleb Eastman (114 passing yards, 1 TD), WR Brett Fowler (46 receptions, 6 TD), WR Sale' Key (30 receptions, 7 TD), TE Edwin Thompson (8 receptions), T Steve Burch, G Robert Poleki, C Dustin Fitzpatrick, G David Garrett, T Jamar Ipki, DT Mark Weivoda (7.5 sacks), DE Mike Rose (36 tackles), LB Josh Whitworth (83 tackles), LB Cedrick Dawson (35 tackles in 2001), CB Ernie James (46 tackles), CB/RS Emery Beckles (3 INT), S Na'Jai Rankin (55 tackles), S Quinton Freeman (6 INT), K Jeremy Hershey (14-26 FG)
NEWCOMERS OF NOTE: QB Mark Hetherington (Transfer/Fresno City CC), QB Roman Ybarra (Transfer/Palomar JC), T Xavier Simms (Transfer/L.A Harbour JC), CB Atari Callen (Transfer/California), S Kinte Haynes (Transfer/Riverside CC), S Marcell Lagrone (Transfer/Southwestern College), P Kyle McQuown (True Freshman)
SCHEDULE: The Bengals will get Eastern Washington (10/4), Montana (10/18), and Portland State (11/1) in Pocatello, but face tough early trips to I-A Boise State (9/6), Sacramento State (9/27), and Montana State (10/11). Non-league fare is light with the exception of Boise, with home tilts against Montana-Western (8/30), Northern Colorado (9/13), and Southern Utah (11/22) and a journey to Cal Poly (11/15).
PROGNOSIS: Montana and Montana State are regarded by most as the Big Sky's teams to beat, but Idaho State, which shared the '02 league title with those two teams, might have the best returning corps of talent in the league. Trouble is, it is still difficult for most to believe in a team that has had one eight-win season (last year) in the past 19 and has defeated Montana just once since 1984. If the Bengals are to convince their doubters, Eastman will have to be the real deal at quarterback, Mitchell must continue to surprise at tailback, and young faces at linebacker and punter will have to emerge. More importantly, the Bengals must win some games on the Big Sky road, where they are just 2-13 in four years under Lewis. If ISU's play matches its experience and talent level, the program could find itself in the playoffs for the first time since 1983.
4. EASTERN WASHINGTON (6-5, 3-4 Big Sky)
COACH (RECORD): Paul Wulff (19-14 in three seasons)
MAJOR DEPARTURES: QB Josh Blankenship (3243 passing yards, 30 TD, 7 INT), RB Jovan Griffith (1130 yards, 12 TD), TE Dan Curley (27 receptions, 4 TD), C Brandon Bouge, DE Brandon Moore (9 sacks), NT Dante Harrell (37 tackles), LB Luke Vincent (93 tackles)
OFFENSIVE STAR: WR/RB/RS Eric Kimble (45 receptions, 9 TD)
DEFENSIVE STAR: DT Brandon Myers (55 tackles, 6 sacks)
OTHER KEY PIECES: QB Erik Meyer (250 yards, 3 TD), QB Skyler Allen, T Kurt Sigler, WR Kyler Randall (54 receptions, 5 TD), WR Joe Pierce (43 receptions, 6 TD), RB Reggie Witherspoon, RB Darius Washington (119 yards, 1 TD), T Michael Roos, G Jeff Christiansen, C Kraig Sigler, DT Emery Meeks (57 tackles), LB Joey Cwik (54 tackles), S/LB Jessy Hanson (59 tackles), CB Jesse Hendrix (47 tackles), CB Isaiah Trufant (3 INT), S A.J. Williams (3 INT), S Nate McFarlane (43 tackles), P Jesse Nicassio (40.4 avg.), K Rich Heintz (6-9 FG)
NEWCOMERS OF NOTE: QB Andy Collins (Transfer/Oregon), WR Jeff Diulio (Transfer/Saddleback JC), T Jim Rains (Transfer/Washington), DE Tom Finnerty (Transfer/Yuba CC)
SCHEDULE: The road slate is particularly difficult, with I-As San Diego State (8/30) and Idaho (9/6) preceding trips to Idaho State (10/4), Northern Arizona (10/18), Sacramento State (10/25), and Montana (11/15). Home highlights include Portland State (10/11) and Montana State (11/8).
PROGNOSIS: Only eight seniors have departed from an Eastern Washington team that, despite posting just a 6-5 record a year ago, ranked No. 6 in the country in total offense and ended Montana's I-AA-record 24-game win streak. There are plenty of indications that the Eagles are a team on the rise, but also some quandaries for Wulff and his staff. The backfield situation is messy. Which of the three quarterbacks will replace Blankenship? Will either Washington or Witherspoon emerge at tailback, or will Kimble be forced to play there? What happens at receiver if Kimble plays running back? That there are so many unanswered offensive questions for a team that has never been known for its cohesion on defense is more than a little unsettling. In addition, the very real possibility of an 0-2 start with four tough conference road games still to play casts doubts on EWU's postseason chances. The Eagles definitely have some talent, but their mysterious makeup seems like a bad thing at this stage.
5. SACRAMENTO STATE (5-7, 3-4 Big Sky)
COACH (RECORD): Steve Mooshagian (First Season at Sacramento State)
MAJOR DEPARTURES: RB Garrett White (887 yards, 8 TD), FB Kendall Riley (328 yards, 4 TD), WR Michael Johnson (32 receptions), T Sean Doherty, NG Bilal Watkins (36 tackles), LB/DE Brad Osterhout (5.5 sacks), LB/S Jason Rowell (46 tackles), CB Brandon Coleman (47 tackles), P/K Brett LeVier (14-18 FG, 36.8 avg.), P Paul Kerr (39.0 avg.)
OFFENSIVE STAR: WR/RS Fred Amey (62 receptions, 9 TD, 25.7 kickoff return avg., 8.4 punt return avg.)
DEFENSIVE STAR: S Camron Mbewa (49 tackles)
OTHER KEY PIECES: QB Ryan Leadingham (2785 yards, 15 TD, 7 INT), WR Kenan Smith (34 receptions, 3 TD), TE Caleb Jones (22 receptions), RB Tyronne Gross (420 yards, 5 TD), C B.J. Tittlemier, G Dustin Nicolodi, G Chris Frank, T Marko Cavka, DE Kelly Micco (48 tackles), DT Matt Franz (27 tackles), NT Eric Broden (4 sacks), LB Park McAllister, LB Ryan Kroeker (105 tackles), LB Matt Logue (54 tackles), CB Ramon Payne (63 tackles)
NEWSOMERS OF NOTE: WR/RS Jason Girley (Transfer/Idaho State), DT Harry Filo (Transfer/Long Beach City JC), NT Eric Broden (Transfer/Long Beach City JC), S Kevin Tennerson (Transfer/Fresno State), K Mitch Lively (True Freshman), P Todd Marshall (Transfer/Long Beach City JC)
SCHEDULE: I-A Oregon State (8/28) probably won't start the Mooshagian era on a strong note, but the Hornets get four of the next five in Sacramento, including a key three-game stretch with Idaho State (9/27), UC Davis (10/4), and Northern Arizona (10/11). Road trips to Portland State (10/18) and Montana State (10/11) will be no picnic, but Eastern Washington (10/25) and Montana (11/8) will have to travel to Hornet Stadium.
PROGNOSIS: Sac State was a couple of plays away from having a winning record last season, and a good portion of the personnel from that team has been left for Mooshagian. The new head coach is expected to run a pass-heavy attack, and with Leadingham and Amey returning along with an experienced line, the Hornets should put up plenty of numbers. Watch out also for Gross, who has All-America potential if he stays healthy. X-factor number one is the defense, which gave up 31.7 points a game last year and may be without the services of its best player, Mbewa (who sat out his freshman year as an NCAA non-qualifier and is attempting to earn enough credits to gain back the year). Defensive coordinator Dennis DiCamillo has to work some magic with his corps. The second X-factor is the kicking game, which will feature two newcomers including a true freshman kicker. If the team jells along with the new coaching staff, the Hornets could be a surprise contender in the Big Sky. If not, Mooshagian's team should still have the players to go .500 or better.
6. NORTHERN ARIZONA (6-5, 3-4 Big Sky)
COACH (RECORD): Jerome Souers (27-30 in five seasons)
MAJOR DEPARTURES: G Steve Gomez, DE Ray Solis (4.5 sacks), DT Isi Tuanaki (32 tackles), LB George Asalele (48 tackles, 5 sacks), LB Mike Sands (87 tackles, 6.5 sacks), LB Keith O'Neil (75 tackles, 5 sacks), LB Kaaina Keawe (62 tackles), S Keala Loo (78 tackles, 2 INT), S Steve Gubernick (47 tackles, 5 INT)
OFFENSIVE STAR: WR Clarence Moore (61 receptions, 9 TD)
DEFENSIVE STAR: CB/RS Ryan Thornton (36 tackles, 3 INT, 13.5 punt return avg.)
OTHER KEY PIECES: QB Clint Womack (1950 yards, 10 TD, 13 INT), RB Brian Bingham (262 yards, 4 TD), WR Johnny Marshall (44 receptions), TE Tom Winn (20 receptions), T Sean Funke, G Matt Cary, C Matt Raivio, G Matt Ryan, DE John Perrigo (4.5 sacks), LB Bruce Branch (42 tackles), LB Ian Gunderman (32 tackles), CB Maurice Taylor (32 tackles), S Jeremy Thornburg, P Mark Gould (48.2 avg.), K Paul Ernster (13-19 FG)
NEWCOMERS OF NOTE: QB Guy Tomchek (Transfer/Baylor), QB Jason Murietta (True Freshman), DL Jason Perry (Transfer/San Diego State)
SCHEDULE: Four of NAU's first six are away from Flagstaff, including tough ones against Arizona State (9/6), Portland State (9/20), and Sacramento State (10/11). Souers and company also have to go to Montana State (10/25), but Montana (11/1) and Idaho State (11/8) are both home games.
PROGNOSIS: Though the Lumberjacks certainly have offensive concerns, a defense that lost its top six tacklers to graduation is clearly the top priority going into the fall. The defensive-minded Souers will count on former backups like Branch and Gunderman to take on greater roles, and will need Thornburg to step back in after missing 2001 with a shoulder injury. Offensively, Womack will have to be more consistent right away, or either Tomchek or Murietta will be given the opportunity to throw to NAU's talented group of receivers. Bingham's continued health at the tailback position will also be a necessity. There is nothing on this team that screams "championship contender," but if the defense matures quickly, the Lumberjacks could enter November as a surprise playoff possibility.
7. PORTLAND STATE (6-5, 3-4 Big Sky)
COACH (RECORD): Tim Walsh (66-48 in 10 seasons, 93-62 overall)
MAJOR DEPARTURES: QB Juston Wood (2211 yards, 14 TD, 13 INT), G Devan Kelley, FB Saleem Muhammad (26 receptions), WR Jesse Levin (42 receptions), WR Antonio Jackson (35 receptions), TE Tim Hester (14 receptions), RS Hashim Hall (25.9 kickoff return avg.), DE Stefon Kleinert (5.5 sacks), LB Marcus Green (75 tackles), LB Kevin Hastin (61 tackles), S Brent Donnerberg (57 tackles), S David Goodloe (5 INT), K Mike Cajal-Willis (14-22 FG), P Edi Pazos (36.1 avg.)
OFFENSIVE STAR: RB Ryan Fuqua (1,283 yards, 10 TD)
DEFENSIVE STAR: LB Tolo Tuitele (60 tackles)
OTHER KEY PIECES: QB Joe Wiser, RB Joe Rubin (189 yards, 1 TD), WR Jay Williams (14 receptions), G Micah Jackson-Sattler, G Mike Stachowiak, C Gregg Owens, DT Agatupu Sagapolutele (28 tackles), DT Chris Berg (17 tackles), DE Josh Ratliff (36 tackles), LB Joey King (21 tackles), ROV Benjamin Tucker (37 tackles), S Jamal Abdullah (59 tackles), CB Reynard Carrie (46 tackles), CB Nick Swanegan (34 tackles)
NEWCOMERS OF NOTE: FB Allen Kennett (Transfer/Pasadena CC), WR Ryan Brown (Transfer/Western Oregon), WR/RS Akbar Jones (Transfer/Coll. Of San Mateo), TE Tony Curtis (Transfer/Fresno CC), T Isaac Aronson (Transfer/Oregon State), DE Noah Wright (Transfer/Sierra JC), LB Andrew Dorsey (Transfer/Palomar JC), P/K Matt Langford (San Joaquin Delta JC), P/K Eric Azorr (True Freshman)
SCHEDULE: The first three are at home, but Texas A&M-Kingsville (9/4), Nicholls State (9/13), and Northern Arizona (9/20) will all be confident of wins in Portland. A tough road schedule includes I-A Fresno State (9/27), Stephen F. Austin (10/4), Montana (10/25), and Idaho State (11/1). The Viks get Sacramento State (10/18) and Montana State (11/15) at PGE Park.
PROGNOSIS: Advice to Portland State fans: upon your entrance to PGE Park this season, invest in a game program. A grand total of three returning players - running back Ryan Fuqua, guard Micah Jackson-Sattler, and cornerback Reynard Carrie - were 11-game starters a year ago, and Fuqua, who has heard whispers about his lack of toughness, will likely be sharing backfield time with hard-nosed Joe Rubin. That doesn't mean the Vikings don't have talent - they do, but the trick will be how quickly that talent develops into a strong team. Wiser and his inexperienced band of receivers will have to be on the same page early, and the line will have to give the new QB more time to throw than it afforded Juston Wood last season. Defense appears to be the side of the ball with the most experience, which isn't necessarily good news (the Viks ranked 91st in I-AA total defense last year). Though the new faces could come together and surprise, PSU is more than likely looking at a rebuilding year and its first losing record since 1998.
8. WEBER STATE (3-8, 1-6 Big Sky)
COACH (RECORD): Jerry Graybeal (23-32 in five seasons)
MAJOR DEPARTURES: WR/RS Wiley King (26 receptions, 18.0 kickoff return avg.), C Ben Olson, DE Tevita Kafoa (48 tackles), DT Randy Spencer (42 tackles, 3 sacks), LB Matt Jensen (32 tackles), S Demario Franklin (32 tackles)
OFFENSIVE STAR: QB Tate Bennett (2228 yards, 16 TD, 11 INT)
DEFENSIVE STAR: LB Matt McFadden (62 tackles)
OTHER KEY PIECES: RB Nick Chournos (874 yards, 9 TD), WR Scott Peery (46 receptions, 4 TD), WR Justin DeFour (39 receptions, 4 TD), G Jon Newman, G Kelly Kariger, T Chris Rhodes, TE Mike Hale (14 receptions), DE Brady Fosmark (4 sacks), DT Emil Metroka (45 tackles), LB Colton Swan (89 tackles), LB Eric Jones (50 tackles), S Randy Smith (69 tackles), CB Dewey Crayton (2 INT), K Joe Johnson (6-10 FG), P Joey Spendlove (38.4 avg.)
NEWCOMERS OF NOTE: RB James Samuel (Transfer/Utah State), CB Adrian Calloway (Orange Coast JC), CB Ricky Guzman (Merced JC)
SCHEDULE: The Wildcats have a chance to start strong, with Western State (8/30), Southern Utah (9/6), and Montana Tech (9/20) all visiting Ogden in the opening month. Graybeal's club also welcomes Montana State (10/18) and Idaho State (10/25), but trips to Eastern Washington (9/27) and Montana (10/11) could sting.
PROGNOSIS: Though just about everyone has picked Weber State to finish in the Big Sky cellar, things are looking up in Ogden. First off, Jerry Graybeal's team welcomes back nearly everybody from last year, when the team finished 3-8 but lost three games by five points or fewer. The team boasts some solid players, particularly on defense where linebackers McFadden, Swan, and Jones lead the way. The offense still needs some work, but if Utah State transfer Samuel makes it academically, the chains should move more readily. Even if Weber's returning corps has made no improvement since last season, the Wildcats should still be favored to win four of their five non-conference games (Colorado State being the exception). If they can do that, and can manage to win just twice in the league (probably the more difficult part of the equation), Weber finishes 6-6 and Graybeal likely keeps his job, even if the Wildcats can't emerge from the basement.
The University of Montana Grizzlies, as most I-AA fans are aware, have been the Big Sky's showcase program for the past decade. The packed houses at gorgeous and ever-expanding Washington-Grizzly Stadium have witnessed 10 straight playoff appearances, two national titles, a Walter Payton Award winner in Dave Dickenson and two head coaches that have gone on to take I-A jobs. And yet Montana State fans, who had tasted little in the way of on-field success since the Grizzlies' rise to prominence, are calling it even.
That's because the Bobcats went into Washington-Grizzly last Nov. 23 and emerged as 10-7 victors, snapping a 16-game losing streak in the series and winning in Missoula for the first time since 1984. Mike Kramer's club won a share of the Big Sky title and an automatic playoff bid, facts on the tips of the tongues of MSU supporters and yet exceedingly annoying to Griz fans, like the first time your little brother beats you in one-on-one and won't shut up about it.
The heat in the always-intense rivalry has grown suffocating to both programs, which (oh by the way) will have to face six other Big Sky teams before they meet face-to-face in Bozeman on Nov. 22. Idaho State, though almost no one outside of Pocatello seems to remember, finished in a three-way tie for the league title last year (the Bengals were denied an at-large playoff berth) and is expected to be in the championship mix once again, and teams like Eastern Washington and Sacramento State also think they can challenge the "Treasure State two."
Below is a team-by-team breakdown of the 2003 Big Sky race, with teams ranked according to The Sports Network's predicted order of finish.
Sports Network Predicted Order of Finish:
1. Montana 2. Montana State 3. Idaho State 4. Eastern Washington 5. Sacramento State 6. Northern Arizona 7. Portland State 8. Weber State
1. MONTANA (11-3, 5-2 in Big Sky)
COACH (RECORD): Bobby Hauck (First Season at Montana)
MAJOR DEPARTURES: QB John Edwards (3209 passing yards, 20 TD), RB David Gober (480 yards, 5 TD), S Trey Young (92 tackles, 11 sacks), CB Johnnie Peeples (2 INT), P Mark Spencer (38.4 avg.)
OFFENSIVE STAR: QB Jeff Disney (Transfer/Chaffey CC) or QB Craig Ochs (Transfer/Colorado)
DEFENSIVE STAR: DE Tim Bush (67 tackles, 13 sacks)
OTHER KEY PIECES: RB J.R. Waller (826 yards, 7 TD), TE Conor Molloy (14 receptions), WR/RS Levander Segars (51 receptions, 10.3 punt return avg.), WR Jon Talmage (50 receptions, 5 TD), WR Tate Hancock (37 receptions, 6 TD), T Dylan McFarland, T Jon Skinner, G Derek Decker, G Cory Procter, DE Ciche Pitcher (17 tackles), DT Blake Horgan (95 tackles), DT John Cahill (60 tackles), LB Joel Robinson (75 tackles), LB Adam Hoge (65 tackles), CB Vernon Smith (6 INT), S Dave DeCoite (95 tackles), K Chris Snyder (19-32 FG)
NEWCOMERS OF NOTE: RB Justin Green (Transfer/San Diego Mesa CC), C Jay Green (Transfer/Utah State)
SCHEDULE: The Grizzlies open with an intriguing matchup at Maine (8/30), but will leave Missoula just once between Labor Day and Halloween (10/18 at Idaho State). Rivalry games with Idaho (9/27) and Portland State (10/25) are the feature attractions at newly expanded Washington-Grizzly Stadium, and road tilts at Northern Arizona (11/1), Sacramento State (11/8), and Montana State (11/22) define a difficult November,
PROGNOSIS: Only Montana could lose a successful starting quarterback, lack a proven rusher, have injury concerns on the defensive line, need another solid corner, lack a proven punter, bring on a new coaching staff with a different offensive system, and still be picked to win the league and finish in the national top five. That's the situation for the Grizzlies, who have some definite question marks but should continue their dominance in the first year of the Hauck era. The key areas of strength for Montana are on both lines. McFarland is one of five returning starters in the offensive trenches, and no fewer than six All-America-quality players are back on the defensive line. The offense should flow nicely provided both Disney and Ochs don't both fall flat on their faces and Waller can be productive with a bigger share of the workload. The most glaring need is at corner, where freshmen Nathan Adkins and Tuff Harris are vying for a starting job alongside Smith. But advance reviews on Hauck, his staff, and his offense have been positive, and the new coach should have little trouble plugging Montana's holes and getting the team into national title contention.
2. MONTANA STATE (7-6, 5-2 Big Sky)
COACH (RECORD): Mike Kramer (12-23 in three seasons at MSU, 49-55 overall)
MAJOR DEPARTURES: WR Junior Adams (66 receptions, 8 TD), RB Ryan Johnson (1092 yards, 7 TD), WR Aaron Hill (47 receptions, 9 TD), T Brian Choi, G Mike Quast, DT Jason Nicastro (4.5 sacks), LB David Smith (83 tackles), LB Isaac Gardner (47 tackles)
OFFENSIVE STAR: QB Travis Lulay (2064 passing yards, 14 TD, 5 INT)
DEFENSIVE STAR: S Kane Ioane (127 tackles, 4 INT)
OTHER KEY PIECES: WR Scott Turnquist (36 receptions), T Brent Swaggert, G Mataio Toilolo, C Nic Stevenson, TE Blake Wolf (4 receptions), DE Jon Montoya (9.5 sacks), DE Adam Cordeiro (5.5 sacks), DT Ray Sebestyen (46 tackles), CB Joey Thomas (16 tackles), CB Kahiam Hunter (32 tackles), S Kenneth Qualls (93 tackles), P/K Nate Cook (12-19 FG, 39.0 punting avg.), RS Corey Smith (14.6 punt return avg., 19.1 kickoff return avg.)
NEWCOMERS OF NOTE: WR Eddie Sullivan (Transfer/Palomar JC), WR Brandon Roosevelt (Redshirt Freshman), G Joaquin Echauri (Transfer/Butte JC), C Lawrence Figueroa (Transfer/Baskersfield JC), T Chris Haynes (Transfer/C. Canyons), LB Jason Gathing (Transfer/American River JC), LB Jonathan Molock (Transfer/Cal State Northridge)
SCHEDULE: The opening trip to I-A Wyoming (8/30) won't be easy, but consecutive non-conference games against Gardner-Webb (9/6), Cal Poly (9/20), Northern Colorado (9/27), and Saint Mary's (10/4) will all but ensure a good start. Idaho State (10/11), Northern Arizona (10/25), Sacramento State (11/1), and Montana (11/22) will all travel to Bozeman, and the toughest league trips will be to Eastern Washington (11/8) and Portland State (11/15).
PROGNOSIS: The Bobcats enter 2003 with significant question marks on both sides of the ball, but there appears to be enough in the cupboard for another Big Sky title run. Lulay played over his head as a true freshman, and will be expected to be the offensive leader despite the fact that he'll enter the year still a teenager. Lulay will play behind a veteran offensive line, important since MSU's primary receivers (likely Sullivan and Roosevelt) will be new to the lineup as will the starting tailback (sophomore David Mayfield or freshman Jimmy Beal). The defensive line, led by Montoya and Cordeiro, is a team strength as is the Big Sky's top secondary, led by Ioane and Thomas. Kramer's offseason JC acquisitions should solidify the linebacking corps, and the special teams look to be in good shape. The Cats won't plow through their schedule and into December, but there looks to be enough talent in place for another postseason trip.
3. IDAHO STATE (8-3, 5-2 Big Sky)
COACH (RECORD): Larry Lewis (22-22 in four seasons)
MAJOR DEPARTURES: QB Doug Baughman (2936 passing yards, 21 TD, 11 INT), WR Eugene Mirador (47 receptions), C Corey Brown, DT Eric Boose (47 tackles), LB Bart Brooks (100 tackles), LB Audie Attar (82 tackles), P Eddie Johnson (46.2 avg.)
OFFENSIVE STAR: RB Isaac Mitchell (968 yards, 12 TD)
DEFENSIVE STAR: DE Jared Allen (10.5 sacks)
OTHER KEY PIECES: QB Caleb Eastman (114 passing yards, 1 TD), WR Brett Fowler (46 receptions, 6 TD), WR Sale' Key (30 receptions, 7 TD), TE Edwin Thompson (8 receptions), T Steve Burch, G Robert Poleki, C Dustin Fitzpatrick, G David Garrett, T Jamar Ipki, DT Mark Weivoda (7.5 sacks), DE Mike Rose (36 tackles), LB Josh Whitworth (83 tackles), LB Cedrick Dawson (35 tackles in 2001), CB Ernie James (46 tackles), CB/RS Emery Beckles (3 INT), S Na'Jai Rankin (55 tackles), S Quinton Freeman (6 INT), K Jeremy Hershey (14-26 FG)
NEWCOMERS OF NOTE: QB Mark Hetherington (Transfer/Fresno City CC), QB Roman Ybarra (Transfer/Palomar JC), T Xavier Simms (Transfer/L.A Harbour JC), CB Atari Callen (Transfer/California), S Kinte Haynes (Transfer/Riverside CC), S Marcell Lagrone (Transfer/Southwestern College), P Kyle McQuown (True Freshman)
SCHEDULE: The Bengals will get Eastern Washington (10/4), Montana (10/18), and Portland State (11/1) in Pocatello, but face tough early trips to I-A Boise State (9/6), Sacramento State (9/27), and Montana State (10/11). Non-league fare is light with the exception of Boise, with home tilts against Montana-Western (8/30), Northern Colorado (9/13), and Southern Utah (11/22) and a journey to Cal Poly (11/15).
PROGNOSIS: Montana and Montana State are regarded by most as the Big Sky's teams to beat, but Idaho State, which shared the '02 league title with those two teams, might have the best returning corps of talent in the league. Trouble is, it is still difficult for most to believe in a team that has had one eight-win season (last year) in the past 19 and has defeated Montana just once since 1984. If the Bengals are to convince their doubters, Eastman will have to be the real deal at quarterback, Mitchell must continue to surprise at tailback, and young faces at linebacker and punter will have to emerge. More importantly, the Bengals must win some games on the Big Sky road, where they are just 2-13 in four years under Lewis. If ISU's play matches its experience and talent level, the program could find itself in the playoffs for the first time since 1983.
4. EASTERN WASHINGTON (6-5, 3-4 Big Sky)
COACH (RECORD): Paul Wulff (19-14 in three seasons)
MAJOR DEPARTURES: QB Josh Blankenship (3243 passing yards, 30 TD, 7 INT), RB Jovan Griffith (1130 yards, 12 TD), TE Dan Curley (27 receptions, 4 TD), C Brandon Bouge, DE Brandon Moore (9 sacks), NT Dante Harrell (37 tackles), LB Luke Vincent (93 tackles)
OFFENSIVE STAR: WR/RB/RS Eric Kimble (45 receptions, 9 TD)
DEFENSIVE STAR: DT Brandon Myers (55 tackles, 6 sacks)
OTHER KEY PIECES: QB Erik Meyer (250 yards, 3 TD), QB Skyler Allen, T Kurt Sigler, WR Kyler Randall (54 receptions, 5 TD), WR Joe Pierce (43 receptions, 6 TD), RB Reggie Witherspoon, RB Darius Washington (119 yards, 1 TD), T Michael Roos, G Jeff Christiansen, C Kraig Sigler, DT Emery Meeks (57 tackles), LB Joey Cwik (54 tackles), S/LB Jessy Hanson (59 tackles), CB Jesse Hendrix (47 tackles), CB Isaiah Trufant (3 INT), S A.J. Williams (3 INT), S Nate McFarlane (43 tackles), P Jesse Nicassio (40.4 avg.), K Rich Heintz (6-9 FG)
NEWCOMERS OF NOTE: QB Andy Collins (Transfer/Oregon), WR Jeff Diulio (Transfer/Saddleback JC), T Jim Rains (Transfer/Washington), DE Tom Finnerty (Transfer/Yuba CC)
SCHEDULE: The road slate is particularly difficult, with I-As San Diego State (8/30) and Idaho (9/6) preceding trips to Idaho State (10/4), Northern Arizona (10/18), Sacramento State (10/25), and Montana (11/15). Home highlights include Portland State (10/11) and Montana State (11/8).
PROGNOSIS: Only eight seniors have departed from an Eastern Washington team that, despite posting just a 6-5 record a year ago, ranked No. 6 in the country in total offense and ended Montana's I-AA-record 24-game win streak. There are plenty of indications that the Eagles are a team on the rise, but also some quandaries for Wulff and his staff. The backfield situation is messy. Which of the three quarterbacks will replace Blankenship? Will either Washington or Witherspoon emerge at tailback, or will Kimble be forced to play there? What happens at receiver if Kimble plays running back? That there are so many unanswered offensive questions for a team that has never been known for its cohesion on defense is more than a little unsettling. In addition, the very real possibility of an 0-2 start with four tough conference road games still to play casts doubts on EWU's postseason chances. The Eagles definitely have some talent, but their mysterious makeup seems like a bad thing at this stage.
5. SACRAMENTO STATE (5-7, 3-4 Big Sky)
COACH (RECORD): Steve Mooshagian (First Season at Sacramento State)
MAJOR DEPARTURES: RB Garrett White (887 yards, 8 TD), FB Kendall Riley (328 yards, 4 TD), WR Michael Johnson (32 receptions), T Sean Doherty, NG Bilal Watkins (36 tackles), LB/DE Brad Osterhout (5.5 sacks), LB/S Jason Rowell (46 tackles), CB Brandon Coleman (47 tackles), P/K Brett LeVier (14-18 FG, 36.8 avg.), P Paul Kerr (39.0 avg.)
OFFENSIVE STAR: WR/RS Fred Amey (62 receptions, 9 TD, 25.7 kickoff return avg., 8.4 punt return avg.)
DEFENSIVE STAR: S Camron Mbewa (49 tackles)
OTHER KEY PIECES: QB Ryan Leadingham (2785 yards, 15 TD, 7 INT), WR Kenan Smith (34 receptions, 3 TD), TE Caleb Jones (22 receptions), RB Tyronne Gross (420 yards, 5 TD), C B.J. Tittlemier, G Dustin Nicolodi, G Chris Frank, T Marko Cavka, DE Kelly Micco (48 tackles), DT Matt Franz (27 tackles), NT Eric Broden (4 sacks), LB Park McAllister, LB Ryan Kroeker (105 tackles), LB Matt Logue (54 tackles), CB Ramon Payne (63 tackles)
NEWSOMERS OF NOTE: WR/RS Jason Girley (Transfer/Idaho State), DT Harry Filo (Transfer/Long Beach City JC), NT Eric Broden (Transfer/Long Beach City JC), S Kevin Tennerson (Transfer/Fresno State), K Mitch Lively (True Freshman), P Todd Marshall (Transfer/Long Beach City JC)
SCHEDULE: I-A Oregon State (8/28) probably won't start the Mooshagian era on a strong note, but the Hornets get four of the next five in Sacramento, including a key three-game stretch with Idaho State (9/27), UC Davis (10/4), and Northern Arizona (10/11). Road trips to Portland State (10/18) and Montana State (10/11) will be no picnic, but Eastern Washington (10/25) and Montana (11/8) will have to travel to Hornet Stadium.
PROGNOSIS: Sac State was a couple of plays away from having a winning record last season, and a good portion of the personnel from that team has been left for Mooshagian. The new head coach is expected to run a pass-heavy attack, and with Leadingham and Amey returning along with an experienced line, the Hornets should put up plenty of numbers. Watch out also for Gross, who has All-America potential if he stays healthy. X-factor number one is the defense, which gave up 31.7 points a game last year and may be without the services of its best player, Mbewa (who sat out his freshman year as an NCAA non-qualifier and is attempting to earn enough credits to gain back the year). Defensive coordinator Dennis DiCamillo has to work some magic with his corps. The second X-factor is the kicking game, which will feature two newcomers including a true freshman kicker. If the team jells along with the new coaching staff, the Hornets could be a surprise contender in the Big Sky. If not, Mooshagian's team should still have the players to go .500 or better.
6. NORTHERN ARIZONA (6-5, 3-4 Big Sky)
COACH (RECORD): Jerome Souers (27-30 in five seasons)
MAJOR DEPARTURES: G Steve Gomez, DE Ray Solis (4.5 sacks), DT Isi Tuanaki (32 tackles), LB George Asalele (48 tackles, 5 sacks), LB Mike Sands (87 tackles, 6.5 sacks), LB Keith O'Neil (75 tackles, 5 sacks), LB Kaaina Keawe (62 tackles), S Keala Loo (78 tackles, 2 INT), S Steve Gubernick (47 tackles, 5 INT)
OFFENSIVE STAR: WR Clarence Moore (61 receptions, 9 TD)
DEFENSIVE STAR: CB/RS Ryan Thornton (36 tackles, 3 INT, 13.5 punt return avg.)
OTHER KEY PIECES: QB Clint Womack (1950 yards, 10 TD, 13 INT), RB Brian Bingham (262 yards, 4 TD), WR Johnny Marshall (44 receptions), TE Tom Winn (20 receptions), T Sean Funke, G Matt Cary, C Matt Raivio, G Matt Ryan, DE John Perrigo (4.5 sacks), LB Bruce Branch (42 tackles), LB Ian Gunderman (32 tackles), CB Maurice Taylor (32 tackles), S Jeremy Thornburg, P Mark Gould (48.2 avg.), K Paul Ernster (13-19 FG)
NEWCOMERS OF NOTE: QB Guy Tomchek (Transfer/Baylor), QB Jason Murietta (True Freshman), DL Jason Perry (Transfer/San Diego State)
SCHEDULE: Four of NAU's first six are away from Flagstaff, including tough ones against Arizona State (9/6), Portland State (9/20), and Sacramento State (10/11). Souers and company also have to go to Montana State (10/25), but Montana (11/1) and Idaho State (11/8) are both home games.
PROGNOSIS: Though the Lumberjacks certainly have offensive concerns, a defense that lost its top six tacklers to graduation is clearly the top priority going into the fall. The defensive-minded Souers will count on former backups like Branch and Gunderman to take on greater roles, and will need Thornburg to step back in after missing 2001 with a shoulder injury. Offensively, Womack will have to be more consistent right away, or either Tomchek or Murietta will be given the opportunity to throw to NAU's talented group of receivers. Bingham's continued health at the tailback position will also be a necessity. There is nothing on this team that screams "championship contender," but if the defense matures quickly, the Lumberjacks could enter November as a surprise playoff possibility.
7. PORTLAND STATE (6-5, 3-4 Big Sky)
COACH (RECORD): Tim Walsh (66-48 in 10 seasons, 93-62 overall)
MAJOR DEPARTURES: QB Juston Wood (2211 yards, 14 TD, 13 INT), G Devan Kelley, FB Saleem Muhammad (26 receptions), WR Jesse Levin (42 receptions), WR Antonio Jackson (35 receptions), TE Tim Hester (14 receptions), RS Hashim Hall (25.9 kickoff return avg.), DE Stefon Kleinert (5.5 sacks), LB Marcus Green (75 tackles), LB Kevin Hastin (61 tackles), S Brent Donnerberg (57 tackles), S David Goodloe (5 INT), K Mike Cajal-Willis (14-22 FG), P Edi Pazos (36.1 avg.)
OFFENSIVE STAR: RB Ryan Fuqua (1,283 yards, 10 TD)
DEFENSIVE STAR: LB Tolo Tuitele (60 tackles)
OTHER KEY PIECES: QB Joe Wiser, RB Joe Rubin (189 yards, 1 TD), WR Jay Williams (14 receptions), G Micah Jackson-Sattler, G Mike Stachowiak, C Gregg Owens, DT Agatupu Sagapolutele (28 tackles), DT Chris Berg (17 tackles), DE Josh Ratliff (36 tackles), LB Joey King (21 tackles), ROV Benjamin Tucker (37 tackles), S Jamal Abdullah (59 tackles), CB Reynard Carrie (46 tackles), CB Nick Swanegan (34 tackles)
NEWCOMERS OF NOTE: FB Allen Kennett (Transfer/Pasadena CC), WR Ryan Brown (Transfer/Western Oregon), WR/RS Akbar Jones (Transfer/Coll. Of San Mateo), TE Tony Curtis (Transfer/Fresno CC), T Isaac Aronson (Transfer/Oregon State), DE Noah Wright (Transfer/Sierra JC), LB Andrew Dorsey (Transfer/Palomar JC), P/K Matt Langford (San Joaquin Delta JC), P/K Eric Azorr (True Freshman)
SCHEDULE: The first three are at home, but Texas A&M-Kingsville (9/4), Nicholls State (9/13), and Northern Arizona (9/20) will all be confident of wins in Portland. A tough road schedule includes I-A Fresno State (9/27), Stephen F. Austin (10/4), Montana (10/25), and Idaho State (11/1). The Viks get Sacramento State (10/18) and Montana State (11/15) at PGE Park.
PROGNOSIS: Advice to Portland State fans: upon your entrance to PGE Park this season, invest in a game program. A grand total of three returning players - running back Ryan Fuqua, guard Micah Jackson-Sattler, and cornerback Reynard Carrie - were 11-game starters a year ago, and Fuqua, who has heard whispers about his lack of toughness, will likely be sharing backfield time with hard-nosed Joe Rubin. That doesn't mean the Vikings don't have talent - they do, but the trick will be how quickly that talent develops into a strong team. Wiser and his inexperienced band of receivers will have to be on the same page early, and the line will have to give the new QB more time to throw than it afforded Juston Wood last season. Defense appears to be the side of the ball with the most experience, which isn't necessarily good news (the Viks ranked 91st in I-AA total defense last year). Though the new faces could come together and surprise, PSU is more than likely looking at a rebuilding year and its first losing record since 1998.
8. WEBER STATE (3-8, 1-6 Big Sky)
COACH (RECORD): Jerry Graybeal (23-32 in five seasons)
MAJOR DEPARTURES: WR/RS Wiley King (26 receptions, 18.0 kickoff return avg.), C Ben Olson, DE Tevita Kafoa (48 tackles), DT Randy Spencer (42 tackles, 3 sacks), LB Matt Jensen (32 tackles), S Demario Franklin (32 tackles)
OFFENSIVE STAR: QB Tate Bennett (2228 yards, 16 TD, 11 INT)
DEFENSIVE STAR: LB Matt McFadden (62 tackles)
OTHER KEY PIECES: RB Nick Chournos (874 yards, 9 TD), WR Scott Peery (46 receptions, 4 TD), WR Justin DeFour (39 receptions, 4 TD), G Jon Newman, G Kelly Kariger, T Chris Rhodes, TE Mike Hale (14 receptions), DE Brady Fosmark (4 sacks), DT Emil Metroka (45 tackles), LB Colton Swan (89 tackles), LB Eric Jones (50 tackles), S Randy Smith (69 tackles), CB Dewey Crayton (2 INT), K Joe Johnson (6-10 FG), P Joey Spendlove (38.4 avg.)
NEWCOMERS OF NOTE: RB James Samuel (Transfer/Utah State), CB Adrian Calloway (Orange Coast JC), CB Ricky Guzman (Merced JC)
SCHEDULE: The Wildcats have a chance to start strong, with Western State (8/30), Southern Utah (9/6), and Montana Tech (9/20) all visiting Ogden in the opening month. Graybeal's club also welcomes Montana State (10/18) and Idaho State (10/25), but trips to Eastern Washington (9/27) and Montana (10/11) could sting.
PROGNOSIS: Though just about everyone has picked Weber State to finish in the Big Sky cellar, things are looking up in Ogden. First off, Jerry Graybeal's team welcomes back nearly everybody from last year, when the team finished 3-8 but lost three games by five points or fewer. The team boasts some solid players, particularly on defense where linebackers McFadden, Swan, and Jones lead the way. The offense still needs some work, but if Utah State transfer Samuel makes it academically, the chains should move more readily. Even if Weber's returning corps has made no improvement since last season, the Wildcats should still be favored to win four of their five non-conference games (Colorado State being the exception). If they can do that, and can manage to win just twice in the league (probably the more difficult part of the equation), Weber finishes 6-6 and Graybeal likely keeps his job, even if the Wildcats can't emerge from the basement.
Montana vs Cal Poly Highlights
Sunday, October 12
Montana vs Idaho St. Highlights
Sunday, October 05
Griz Football Weekly Press Conference - 9/29/25
Wednesday, October 01
Griz Football vs. Idaho Highlights - 9/27/25
Wednesday, October 01
