**Southern Utah enters as the consensus favorite at 66% implied probability due to greater program continuity and recent on-field success compared to Weber State’s extensive rebuild.** The Thunderbirds return to the Big Sky Conference after consecutive 7-5 seasons in the UAC, bringing a proven rushing attack under fifth-year head coach DeLane Fitzgerald and returning quarterback Will Burns, who adds dual-threat production. Key transfers like Noah Lugo bolster the quarterback room while the team spreads carries among new backs following the departure of prior standouts. In contrast, Weber State opens the Eric Kjar era with roughly 80 new players and a near-total coaching overhaul, including a new defensive coordinator tasked with addressing the unit’s 38.3 points-per-game allowance in 2025. The Wildcats open their schedule with a road win at Northern Colorado but face significant questions around depth and scheme implementation in a nonconference matchup against a more stable opponent. Historical dominance (Weber State leads the all-time series 21-8) provides context, yet current roster turnover and Southern Utah’s recent form create the market’s lean toward the visitors. No major confirmed injuries or late scratches have altered the outlook ahead of the early-September kickoff.