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Sacramento — Southern Utah coach Ed Lamb says the Thunderbirds' disappointing season has evolved into a three-game opportunity to improve, build and lay a foundation for next year.
Southern Utah is 2-7 overall and 2-3 in the Big Sky Conference, after reaching Football Championship Subdivision playoffs for the first time in school history in 2013.
The Thunderbirds visit Sacramento State on Saturday before finishing the season against league title contenders Montana and Northern Arizona.
"How we play down the stretch will be an indication of where we are going into next year," Lamb said. "Sacramento State will be the first test."
Coming off a bye, Southern Utah's chances against the Hornets might hinge on how well it controls senior quarterback Garrett Safron. He averages 346.3 yards of total offense per game, which leads the Big Sky.
"We've had our issues with Safron before," Lamb said. "He knows how to keep his eyes down field. He knows how to keep plays alive. He's an extra element to defend ... [and] we're still trying to find some identity on defense."
Southern Utah counters with junior Ammon Olsen, who two weeks ago completed 23 of 25 passes for 320 yards and four touchdowns in a 35-17 win over North Dakota. Despite not starting the first three games, he has thrown for nearly 2,800 yards this season. —
Southern Utah at Sacramento State
O At Hornet Stadium
Kickoff • 3 p.m. MST
TV • none
Radio • 590AM
Records • Southern Utah 2-7, 2-3; Sacramento State 4-5, 1-4
Series • Tied, 7-7
Last meeting • Southern Utah, 24-21 (2013)