Mountain West Conference teams have to have at least one Thursday game, according to league rules. The Utes agreed to play Oregon State on a Thursday because it was an opportunity for a national TV game. However, near-empty stands within an hour of kickoff supported Hill's assumption week night games are hard on the home fans.

"Having two is a little much for me, I'd rather it be just one a year, but it's a good chance for us to get some exposure," Hill said.

The last time the Utes had two home games in a season was in 2003, against Utah State and Cal.

Earlier in the week, coach Kyle Whittingham said he didn't mind Thursday games, but didn't like it when the opposition had longer to prepare. Oregon State played USC a week ago Thursday while Utah played Weber State on Saturday. That scenario wouldn't happen in Thursday conference games, because league rules state teams must have equal times to prepare.

Originally, Oregon State was set to play USC on Saturday.

While Thursday games have become a norm, Hill has no interest in having the Utes play earlier in the week.

"Maybe a Friday, we've done those before, but that would be it," Hill said.

More Sakoda

: As if kicking a game-winning field goal wasn't enough for Louie Sakoda, he did set a few more records Thursday.

Sakoda broke the Utah record for career punt yards, finishing the night with 8,729 yards, eclipsing the old record of 8,561 set by Craig Smith from 1967-69.

lwodraska@sltrib.com