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The games just keep getting bigger for Southern Utah.

The Thunderbirds, who are ranked 18th in this week's Football Championship Subdivision coaches poll after six consecutive victories, take their share of the Big Sky Conference lead to Montana State on Saturday.

SUU is 6-2 overall and 5-0 in the Big Sky. The Thunderbirds are tied with fourth-ranked Eastern Washington (6-2, 5-0) at the top of the league standings. They are one game ahead of Portland State (7-1, 4-1) with three remaining.

"There isn't a better offensive team in the country or a better team at home," Southern Utah coach Ed Lamb said of Montana State. "So it's a big challenge."

Montana State was expected to contend in the Big Sky this season, but the Bobcats fell to 4-4 overall and 2-3 after last week's 44-38 loss to North Dakota.

"It's been a matter of losing some close games," coach Rob Ash said. "We've been really good on offense and that's allowed us to stay in games. But we haven't figured out how to win close ones."

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Southern Utah vs. Montana State

At Bobcat Stadium

Kickoff • 1:40 p.m.

TV • Root Sports Radio • 590-AM

Records • Southern Utah 6-2, 5-0; Montana State 4-4, 2-3

Last meeting • Southern Utah, 22-14 (2013)

About the Thunderbirds • They come off a 54-47 win over Cal Poly. … Their defense forced six turnovers and returned three fumbles for touchdowns, including two by LB Mike Needham. … During their current six-game winning streak, they have outscored their opponents, 261-53. … DE James Cowser has 72.5 tackles-for-losses in his career - at FCS record. … QB Ammon Olsen averages 237.4 passing yards per game.

About the Bobcats • They are 4-0 at home. … Despite their .500 record, they are ranked 24th in the county in the FCS coaches poll. … They are third nationally in total offense (532.1). … Junior QB Dakota Prukop (Austin, Texas) has thrown for 2,286 yards and 20 touchdowns. He's run for 622 yards and nine more scores.