THIS IS WEEK IN THE BIG SKY

MONTANA (6-1, 5-1) at IDAHO STATE (2-6, 0-5)

Montana is surprising few in its march to repeat as Big Sky champion. The Grizzlies were picked to finish first in a preseason coaches’ poll and they have maintained at least a share of first place the entire season. Montana has defeated last-place Idaho State 13 of the last 14 meetings, but the Bengals have won nine of 15 meetings at Pocatello. Quarterback Drew Miller of Montana, prolific each week in leading one of the conference’s top offenses, is a candidate for the Payton Award, given annually to the outstanding player in Division I-AA. Quarterback Kevin McCarthy, not intended to start this season, has been a bright spot for Idaho State, in its first season under Coach Larry Lewis. McCarthy has passed for 1,030 yards. Safety Vince Huntsberger of Montana had three interceptions and 11 tackles last week against Eastern Washington.

CAL STATE SACRAMENTO (4-4, 2-4) at EASTERN WASHINGTON (4-4, 3-2)

Two consecutive losses have doused Sacramento’s title chances, a sour turn for the much improved Hornets. Eastern Washington is tied for third place with Cal State Northridge. Sacramento will have to be careful on special teams after the Eastern Washington returned three kickoffs for touchdowns in a 31-25 victory over the Hornets last season. The game features the conference’s top two rushing teams and three of its top backs. Sacramento’s Charles Roberts, also a Payton Award candidate, leads the Big Sky with 1,483 yards. Eastern Washington’s Jovan Griffith (837 yards) ranks fourth and Jesse Chatman (755) is fifth.

MONTANA STATE (3-4, 1-3) at NORTHERN ARIZONA (4-3, 2-2)

Northern Arizona, ranked No. 24 in I-AA by Sports Network, will seek redemption against the Bobcats, who last season overcame a 16-0 deficit to win, 32-25. Montana State recovered a fumbled punt that led to the winning touchdown in the final minute. Northern Arizona’s Ronney Jenkins, from Hueneme High, has accounted for at least 100 yards rushing and 100 yards receiving in two of last three games.

Nonconference

PORTLAND STATE (6-2) at CAL POLY SAN LUIS OBISPO (2-5)

Portland State is ranked No. 17 by Sports Network. Orshawante Bryant, the Vikings’ leading receiver, caught six passes for 143 yards and three touchdowns in a 41-34 victory over San Luis Obispo last season. Portland State leads the series, 9-8.