THIS WEEK IN THE BIG SKY

Montana (8-2, 6-1) at Montana State (3-7, 1-6)

In a weekend devoted to historic rivalries, two programs that have gone in opposite directions this season meet for the 99th time. There’s plenty at stake, as well as the usual battle for bragging rights. Montana is looking for a second consecutive Big Sky Conference title and fifth in seven years. With it comes a berth to the Division I-AA playoffs. Montana State is trying to snap a five-game losing streak and a 13-game losing streak to Montana. If that’s not enough motivation for the Bobcats, this weekend marks the 88th and final game for Coach Cliff Hysell, who has announced his retirement after eight seasons. “The players should and will play this game for themselves,” Hysell said. “They’ve never beaten the University of Montana, although they’ve come close, and this is an important game for them.” Montana quarterback Drew Miller is among three candidates for the Payton Award, the highest award in I-AA.

Nonconference

Cal State Sacramento (5-5) at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo (3-7)

The Hornets can finish with their best record since 1992 with a victory. Charles Roberts needs 33 yards to become the first running back in I-AA to rush for 2,000 yards or more in consecutive seasons. Roberts rushed for a Division I game-record 409 yards against Idaho State on Nov. 6. He rushed for 222 yards in Sacramento’s 22-14 victory over San Luis Obispo last season at Sacramento. San Luis Obispo is 1-3 against Big Sky teams this season.

Idle: Eastern Washington, Idaho State, Portland State and Weber State.