"The biggest thing that will stand out for me was going undefeated at home the last three years, depending on this Saturday," said linebacker David Nixon. "It's something special. It's my last time to play there. I've always been pretty proud to play there. It's been an awesome place. The fans have been great. It's a great atmosphere and it's something I'll miss dearly."

Nixon and running back Fui Vakapuna can appreciate winning at home. They were freshmen in 2003 when the Cougars were stomped at home by Colorado State (58-13) and Boise State (50-12).

Playing at Edwards Stadium is an honor, Vakapuna explained.

"It's the pride we have to play in that stadium," he said. "When I was a freshman, I didn't feel that obligation, that urgency, to be playing on that field. To play on it now is amazing."

BYU has had an unblemished season at home 14 times in its history, dating back to 1967. It has posted back-to-back perfect home marks four times — 1979-80, 1983-84, 1990-91, 2006-07. The Cougars' current home winning streak (17) is tied for second-longest in the nation with Boise State. Oklahoma owns the longest active home win streak at 22 games.

During Vakapuna's career, BYU fans have enjoyed cheering "Fuuuuuiiiiii" when he carries the ball. Vakapuna said he doesn't usually notice that cheer, but he heard it loud and clear two weeks ago when he scored a touchdown in the Cougars' 42-35 victory over UNLV. He enjoys making the fans happy.

"The fans are awesome," he said. "You do it for the fans. They're awesome. There's always support. It's good to see that much support — rain, snow, whatever it may be. They want to get entertained, you might as well give it to them."

Cougars on the air

San Diego State (1-8, 0-5) at No. 17 BYU (8-1, 4-1)

Today, noon

LaVell Edwards Stadium

TV: The mtn.

Radio: 1160 AM, 102.7 FM

Live game blog: deseretnews.com/blogs

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E-mail: jeffc@desnews.com