Laramie, Wyo. • It's been 13 years since Southern Utah scored its first and only win over a Football Bowl Subdivision opponent, such as Wyoming.

On the other hand, the Cowboys have never lost to a team from the Football Championship Subdivision, such as the Thunderbirds.

So, can Southern Utah upset Wyoming tonight at War Memorial Stadium in the season opener for both teams?

Maybe not.

Still, coach Ed Lamb believes this will be the best team he's had in three seasons at Southern Utah — one that could eventually qualify for the FCS playoffs.

That's why he's eager to see how the Thunderbirds stand up to the Cowboys, who are the most accomplished opponent on Southern Utah's schedule.

"We are a much improved football team — a significantly improved football team," Lamb said. "And I thought we had made some good strides last year toward becoming a decent team. So we'll see."

Southern Utah finished 5-6 last year — its first five-win season since 2004.

The Thunderbirds must replace record-setting quarterback Cade Cooper, but Lamb is confident sophomore Brad Sorensen can lead what should be another potent offense.

Like Cooper, Sorensen is a transfer from BYU.

"I couldn't be any higher on him, as far as size, arm strength, talent level and the ability to grasp our offense is concerned," Lamb said. "The one thing that remains to be seen is how will he perform on game day."

Sorensen is surrounded by playmakers, including senior wideout Tysson Poots, who is already the leading receiver in school history.

If Southern Utah hopes to challenge Wyoming, its high-powered offense, which averaged 33 points a game last season, must be in midseason form against a defense that has caught Lamb's attention.

"Wyoming has some dynamic players on offense," he said. "But looking at them, the thing you notice is their defense because of how hard they play and how aggressive they are."

Lamb played at BYU in the mid-1990s, so he knows how difficult it can be for the visiting team at Wyoming.

"The issues aren't quite the same for Southern Utah as they are for BYU," he said, smiling. "… The crowd might not be quite as hostile."

luhm@sltrib.com —

Southern Utah at Wyoming

P At War Memorial Stadium

Kickoff • 7 p.m.

TV • None

Radio • 590 AM, 91.1 FM

Records • SUU 0-0, Wyoming 0-0

Series • First meeting