OGDEN — Another road game, another ranked opponent for Weber State.

Playing in the stadiums of opposing teams this season certainly hasn't been easy for the Wildcats. All three road games have been played against ranked opponents, and WSU has not yet found a way to win.

First it was No. 25 Fresno State, then No. 11 North Dakota State, then No. 4 Montana. Today, Weber State (3-4, 2-2) will challenge No. 6 Eastern Washington (4-2, 3-1) in a game the Wildcats need to win to stay in the hunt for a Division I-AA playoff spot. The Eagles were voted by the media and coaches as the team to beat this season, so the 'Cats have their work cut out for them.

"Their quarterback is the best we've seen or probably will see this season," Weber State coach Ron McBride said. "They have great receivers and a veteran offensive line. This is an explosive team. We will need to play our absolute very best if we are to succeed."

The Eagles are coming off a 34-20 victory over Montana and own a three-game winning streak. Weber State is fresh off a 26-14 victory over Sacramento State that came after two disappointing losses to Montana and Montana State.

When comparing the Wildcats and Eagles, there are a few similarities. EWU is first in the conference in total offense (511.3) and Weber State is second (403.1). In total defense, the Eagles give up an average of 320 yards per game while the Wildcats allow an average of 321 yards per outing. There are several other categories where the two teams match up evenly, meaning something will have to give in today's game.

The key for the 'Cats will come down to if they can run the ball and control the clock. When Weber State rushes for 200 yards or more, the Wildcats are 3-1 this year. When they compile more than 400 yards total offense, they are 3-1.

That's what the Wildcats accomplished the last time they played in Cheney, Wash., in 2003. Nick Chournos ran for 194 yards and a touchdown and also threw a touchdown to help Weber State earn a 35-23 win. McBride said for the 'Cats to win, the purple and white must win in the fourth quarter like they did against the Hornets.

"We played poorly for 2 1/2 quarters (against Sacramento State)," McBride said. "We've preached all year the game is won in the fourth quarter and we need to give ourselves a chance, and we finally figured it out (last week)."

WILDCAT NOTE: Weber State linebacker Tyler DeBry was named Big Sky Defensive Player of the Week for his performance in last week's win over Sacramento State. DeBry registered 11 total tackles, forced two fumbles, recovered one fumble and recorded a half a sack.

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Wildcats on the air

Weber State at Eastern Washington

Kickoff: Today, 1 p.m.

Radio: 1430 AM