Helpful hint to Eastern fans: leave early for Pullman, because game-day traffic can be pretty rough. This one will be no exception. I'm leaving Spokane tomorrow at 8:30, which I figure will put me in my parking spot at about 10:30 - just right! But hey, if you're stuck in traffic, you can always check out these links to Eastern and Big Sky football...

First, close to home, here's the link to yesterdays's EWU live chat. Thanks, everyone, for participating. We'll do it again on Sept. 20, two days before the game at Weber State. ... I also posed some questions to our WSU beat writer, Christian Caple, and here are his answers. ... Christian also takes a look at Kyle Padron, specifically the fact that he already has a win over the Cougs, in 2010. ... Farther afield, here's a look at the Montana offensive linemen, courtesy of the Missoulian. ... The Griz will have their hands full this week at Appalachian State. Here's a preview from the Billings Gazette. ... Meanwhile, Weber State (the Eagles' first conference opponent) travels to BYU Saturday. Here's a feature on interim head coach (and former EWU and WSU assistant) Jody Sears. ... From the Oregonian, a story on Portland State's new quarterback, Kieran MacDonough. ... Idaho State figures to pick up a win at Black Hills (S.D) State and put former EWU coach Mike Kramer in a tie for third place in wins. ... Big Sky newcomer Southerh Utah State faces a tough task this weekend at Cal.

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