The University of Northern Colorado football team is looking to bounce back from a significant defeat against Montana State as they prepare for their upcoming game. Head coach Ed Lamb emphasized the need for change during his weekly media session, stating that the recent loss serves as a “catalyst for change.”
After a disheartening 55-7 loss at home, the Bears are eager to avoid a repeat performance. Lamb noted that there is a competitive atmosphere surrounding the quarterback position, with three practice sessions scheduled before facing Northern Arizona University this Saturday in Flagstaff.
Currently, UNC holds a record of 3-6 overall and 1-4 in the Big Sky Conference, while Northern Arizona stands at 5-4 and 2-3 in the conference. The game is set for 4 p.m. at the Lumberjacks” J. Lawrence Walkup Skydome, which will also host NAU”s homecoming and White Out game.
NAU”s quarterback, Ty Pennington, has been recognized as a top player in the Big Sky Conference, making this matchup even more challenging for the Bears. Following their game against NAU, UNC will face a final road game on November 15 against Eastern Washington, concluding the regular season at home against Portland State on November 22.
During the loss to Montana State, which is currently ranked No. 3 in the Football Championship Subdivision, Lamb expressed concern about the team”s dynamics and morale. He observed a lack of unity among the players, stating, “We lost confidence in each other.” He pointed out that the sideline atmosphere was the worst he had witnessed in some time.
Despite trailing only 7-0 after the first quarter, the Bears allowed Montana State to extend their lead rapidly. The Bobcats scored two quick touchdowns, creating a 27-0 gap that left UNC struggling to recover. Lamb reflected on the team”s demeanor, noting that players were not as engaged as they had been in previous games.
In the aftermath of the loss, Lamb gathered the team to address their need for cohesion. He recounted an exercise aimed at encouraging players to sit closer together, indicating the importance of supporting one another in tough situations. “We”re done not being as tight or as close as we can be when things are hard,” he told the team.
The Bears are now facing a quarterback competition as they strive to break a three-game losing streak. Quarterback Peter Costelli made his return briefly against Montana State after recovering from a collarbone injury sustained in the season opener. Despite his previous status as a starter, Lamb emphasized that Eric Gibson Jr. has earned the right to lead the team on the field.
As the Bears prepare for Northern Arizona, the goal is clear: to harness the recent loss as motivation and improve their performance in the remaining games of the season.
