The Big Sky Conference is entering a pivotal preseason as the Aggies are slated to finish third in the upcoming polls, trailing only Montana State and Montana. The projection reflects a blend of historical performance and early voter sentiment, with UC Davis earning two first‑place votes in the coaches’ and media poll.
Preseason Landscape
Montana State arrives as the defending Big Sky champion and the top seed in the FCS rankings, while Montana, a perennial powerhouse with 19 conference titles, is expected to finish second. Both programs bring deep rosters and a history of postseason success that keeps the conference’s competitive balance tight.
UC Davis, under the guidance of head coach Tim Plough, is chasing its fifth FCS playoff berth since 2018. The Aggies have a storied tradition of conference dominance, having captured 32 league championships, including a 20‑year streak from 1971 to 1990. Their recent run to the FCS quarterfinals in each of the past two seasons underscores the program’s upward trajectory.
Key Players and Coaching Vision
The Aggies will lean on a core group of standouts such as Samuel Gbatu Jr., Drew Cofield, Nate Rutchena, and Rex Connors. Their experience, combined with Plough’s strategic direction, aims to translate preseason optimism into on‑field execution. Meanwhile, rival coaches Brent Vigen of Montana State and Justin Lamson of Montana are also shaping their squads for a season that could redefine the conference hierarchy.
Conference Realignment and Rivalries
A significant shift looms as Sacramento State prepares to exit the Big Sky for the Football Bowl Subdivision, ending the long‑standing Causeway Classic rivalry. This move reshapes the conference’s geographic footprint and leaves a vacancy that could affect scheduling and competitive dynamics for the remaining members.
The Big Sky Kickoff Weekend will take place in Spokane, Washington, providing a platform for media day activities and a first look at the teams’ preparations. Representatives from UC Davis will join peers from across the league to discuss expectations, logistics, and the upcoming season’s narrative.