The Wyoming Cowboys make their home debut Saturday when they host the Gardner-Webb Runnin’ Bulldogs at War Memorial Stadium.

This will not only be the first meeting between the two teams, it will also be the first time UW faces a school from the Big South Conference.

Both teams are 0-1 on the season. The Pokes lost 24-3 at Iowa, while Gardner-Webb was smashed by FCS foe North Carolina A&T, 45-3. Both also struggled to get their offense on track. Wyoming gained 233 yards against the Hawkeyes, while the Runnin’ Bulldogs were held to 114 total yards by the Aggies.

The difference might be an improved Cowboys defense that allowed 263 yards and came away with four turnovers.

Senior linebacker/nickel back Jalen Ortiz was pleased with their effort, but still wants a win more than anything. He discussed Iowa, his position, their opponent and more with KOWB’s David Settle.

On the flip side, Gardner-Webb had major issues on defense in their opener last week. They allowed 458 yards in their loss, which included 341 through the air.

Wyoming head coach Craig Bohl said during his weekly press conference earlier in the week that the Cowboys’ play-makers have to step up. At the same time he heavily credited Iowa’s defense for their part in hold UW down. Bohl admitted they’ve got plenty of room for improvement.

The Pokes have won their last seven regular season home games at the War and seven of the last eight overall. They look to continue that trend Saturday in the first of four straight home games and part of a seven-game home schedule in 2017.

Kick-off is at 2 p.m. Radio and streaming coverage will start at 1 p.m. The game will be televised on AT&T SportsNet.

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