SUU Opens Home Slate Hosting UC-Davis

CEDAR CITY, Utah – On Saturday, September 14, the Southern Utah Thunderbirds will launch their home game schedule at Eccles Coliseum, facing off against the #15 UC Davis Aggies in their third non-conference matchup of the season. The game is set to kick off at 6:00 p.m. MT and will be available for streaming on ESPN+.

The Thunderbirds, fresh off a significant road victory against FBS opponent UTEP, are looking to build on their momentum. This win, Southern Utah's first against an FBS team since a 2013 triumph over South Alabama, has evened their season record at 1-1. UC Davis also holds a 1-1 record this season, having lost their opener to the University of California but rebounding with a win over Texas A&M-Commerce last week.

This matchup against UC Davis is particularly meaningful for Southern Utah, as the Aggies, former Big Sky conference members, hold a narrow 13-9 advantage in their all-time series. The Thunderbirds will be eager to avenge a close 23-21 defeat from last year.

Southern Utah's recent performance saw two players earn United Athletic Conference Player of the Week honors. Senior running back Targhee Lambson was pivotal in the win over UTEP, rushing for 183 yards and two touchdowns, including a crucial 46-yard score in the fourth quarter. Additionally, redshirt junior kicker Daniel King played a crucial role, securing victory with a 38-yard field goal in the fourth quarter and a game-winning 33-yard kick in overtime. King also excelled in kickoff and punting duties, adding five touchbacks and a key 41-yard punt.

On offense, Targhee Lambson has been a standout, accumulating 227 rushing yards on 26 carries with an impressive average of 8.7 yards per attempt and two touchdowns. Senior Mark Bails has contributed significantly in the passing game with 52 yards on five catches. On defense, senior Walker Harris leads with 2.5 sacks and three tackles for loss, while junior linebacker Kohner Cullimore tops the team in total tackles with 13. In the secondary, Kameron Rocha has recorded 11 tackles, and defensive backs Lacarea Pleasant-Johnson and Jayden Robertson each have an interception.

UC Davis' offense has shown versatility with running back Lan Larison gaining 185 yards on 45 carries, and quarterback Miles Hastings throwing for 541 yards and three touchdowns. Receivers like C.J. Hutton, Chaz Davis, and Samuel Gbatu Jr. add depth to their passing game.

Defensively, redshirt junior linebacker David Meyer leads with 27 tackles and an interception, while defensive back Kavir Bains has made 14 tackles and forced a fumble. The Aggies’ defense has collectively made ten tackles for loss and two interceptions, showcasing their ability to apply pressure and make key stops.

Southern Utah University, in collaboration with Lin's Fresh Market, is hosting a food drive to support SUU students facing food insecurity. The drive, which began on September 7, will conclude on game day, September 14. Donations can be dropped off at the game entrance. Contributions will support the Community Engagement Center’s HOPE Pantry, which aids students in need. Donations will be displayed and weighed at the game, emphasizing the community’s support.

(Story/Photo: suutbirds.com)