Bowen is expecting another victory for the Utes, and he'll be posting pictures, via mobile uploads online at sweettasteofvictory.blogspot

.com for readers and Ute fans across the country, claiming the site to be "the virtual backstage pass to the Sugar Bowl," he said.

"If we can come out with a victory against a team that was No. 1 for at least five weeks in the regular season, I think that speaks volumes about not only our team, but all the teams in the Mountain West and all non-BCS schools," he said. "The little guys are getting better."

A pep rally and tailgate party are planned for fans in Louisiana at the Marriott Hotel on Canal Street on Thursday and Friday before the game. Bowen said fans can keep track of the Utes on his blog.

Alder said local fans can view the game on campus at the Union Theater on Friday night. The campus won't be fully active until the semester starts the following week, but she said anyone interested can join the fun. Various locations throughout the valley also will be hosting game-day parties, having televisions tuned to screen the Utes' battle against Alabama.

The MUSS plans to meet up with team members, who already are in Louisiana, this afternoon, joining the festivities throughout the weekend and starting the return trek Saturday.

"We are all foaming at the mouth for this game, and Friday can't come fast enough," Bowen posted on the blog Tuesday.

---

E-mail: wleonard@desnews.com