Weber State football: Mirror images set to face off in key Big Sky matchup

OGDEN — When Weber State and Northern Arizona meet in a key Big Sky game today, the two teams might feel like they're looking in the mirror.

Both teams are balanced offensively, equally dangerous running and passing the ball. Each has a bad conference loss, and both of them have FCS playoff chances that are hanging on by a thread.

Kickoff is at noon at Stewart Stadium.

"We got to win the game — there's no question," said Weber State coach Ron McBride. "There are a lot of implications in this game. We understand how important it is. Neither team has a game to waste, so it should be an interesting afternoon."

Weber State, Northern Arizona, Eastern Washington and Montana State are all Big Sky teams hoping to earn an at-large bid into the FCS playoffs. The problem for them is that all four teams have two conference losses, and Weber State and Northern Arizona each have four overall losses.

It's highly unlikely that the FCS playoff committee will put a four-loss team in the postseason, so the loser of today's Weber State-Northern Arizona game can really forget about extending their season.

The Wildcats and Lumberjacks have had similar seasons. Both lost two games to FBS teams. Northern Arizona played up against Arizona and Mississippi and lost both times. Weber State lost a game to Montana State when it scored one touchdown in seven red-zone appearances. Northern Arizona lost to Sacramento State when it was blanked in the second half.

"They got a lot to play for just like we do," McBride said.

Northern Arizona is certainly capable of coming into Ogden today and keeping its playoff hopes alive with a victory. The Lumberjacks lead the Big Sky in passing offense and passing efficiency. Quarterback Michael Herrick, a transfer from Mississippi, has thrown for 2,716 yards and 19 touchdowns.

McBride is also concerned with Northern Arizona's running game. Alex Henderson is a dangerous runner, and he's rushed for 872 yards and 11 scores.

"You got to play square on defense because this guy is an awful good back," McBride said. "He's got good vision, he sees the hole, and he's a good cutback runner. He's a special player."

The Wildcats are coming off a bye week, while Northern Arizona played in a guarantee game at Mississippi last week. The Lumberjacks put up a good fight against the Rebels before falling, 38-14.

Northern Arizona is in the same boat as the Wildcats today — needing a win to keep slim playoff hopes alive while trying not to think about the postseason.

"We're focused on this game," said Lumberjacks coach Jerome Souers. "This is the most important game of the year for us – period."

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