Weber State dominates Portland State in Big Sky opener, 43-16

On Saturday night, Weber State faced off against Portland State in their Big Sky Conference opener, showcasing a dominant performance. Damon Bankston was a standout player, rushing for 133 yards and scoring two touchdowns, including a crucial 1-yard run that helped Weber State secure a 16-10 lead at halftime. The Wildcats displayed their offensive strength, particularly in the fourth quarter, where they scored 24 points, effectively sealing the game. Richie Munoz contributed significantly to the victory, completing 19 of 30 passes for 219 yards, including a touchdown pass to Jacob Sharp. Munoz also demonstrated his versatility with a 9-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter, adding to the team's momentum. The Wildcats' offense was relentless, with Bankston's explosive 75-yard touchdown run following a Portland State score, which reestablished a significant lead. Portland State struggled to keep pace, despite a late touchdown that brought them within 29-16. Dante Chachere, the Vikings' quarterback, completed 10 of 22 passes for 61 yards, while William Haskell added a touchdown pass but also threw an interception. The Vikings' inability to maintain offensive consistency ultimately hindered their chances of a comeback. This victory marked Weber State's first win of the season, improving their record to 1-1, while Portland State fell to 0-2. The game highlighted Weber State's potential as a strong contender in the Big Sky Conference, setting a positive tone for the remainder of their season.