OGDEN — It's been some time since a game between Weber State and Idaho State meant more than just bragging rights.

In recent years the two teams have finished near the bottom of the Big Sky standings. But this week, the winner stays in the hunt for the conference title and the loser finishes out its season with little to play for. And don't forget about those bragging rights.

The Wildcats (4-4, 3-2) host their oldest rival, the Bengals (4- 3, 2-2), today at Stewart Stadium. Kickoff is 2 p.m.

"I've only been here for 10 months, but it was made known to me long ago that Idaho State to Weber State is like BYU to Utah, so I understand the intensity of this game," WSU coach Ron McBride said.

If today's game holds true to tradition, the Wildcats have this one in the bag. Idaho State has lost nine straight and 13 of 14 in Ogden since 1984, and ISU coach Larry Lewis is 1-5 against WSU. Weber State has won the last two games with Idaho State, including a victory in Pocatello last year that turned out to be its only win in a 1-10 season.

The 'Cats also have the momentum of two consecutive wins coming in, including last week's upset victory over No. 6 Eastern Washington. Add the fact that today's contest will also be the final regular-season home game for 18 Wildcat seniors, and the 'Cats have no lack of motivation to succeed.

WSU is currently the Big Sky leader in quarterback sacks with 24 on the season. The Wildcats are second in the league in rushing, second in total offense and second in total defense. Not to be outdone, Idaho State has established itself as a solid team in several statistical categories. ISU leads the Big Sky in rushing and total defense. The Bengals are also second in the conference with 23 sacks.

Idaho State is also looking for back-to-back road victories for the first time since 1984. It is also interesting to note ISU is 4-0 when leading after the first quarter. Lewis recently made a switch at quarterback when he started Louisiana-Lafayette transfer Luke Sniewski last week against Sacramento State. The move seemed to pay off as the Bengals defeated Sacramento State for the first time in Sacramento.

WILDCAT NOTES: WSU defensive lineman Brady Fosmark was named Big Sky co-defensive player of the week. Fosmark, a 6-foot-3, 260-pound senior from Clearfield, recorded 11 tackles and a season-high three sacks in the win over Eastern Washington.

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Wildcats on the air

Idaho State (4-3, 2-2) at Weber State (4-4, 3-2)

Today, 2 p.m.

Stewart Stadium

Radio: 1430 AM