University of Northern Colorado Athletics
Photo by: Jesus Ayala, UNC Athletics
Bears Ready for Big Test Against No. 6 UC Davis
10/22/2025 1:57:00 PM | Football
GREELEY, Colo. – Northern Colorado football is preparing to face a major test this weekend, hosting sixth-ranked UC Davis. After a gut-wrenching loss last week, the Bears are focused on regrouping and building on the growth they've shown throughout the season.
Head coach Ed Lamb met with the media to discuss the challenge ahead, the team's development, and what it takes to continue progressing in the Big Sky.
On the team's recent loss and mindset moving forward
"Coming off a really tough loss, it's a different kind of pain this season," Lamb said. "Our guys recognize that we're good enough to be in every game, and other teams in the league know we're not an easy out. But we also have to balance accountability with recognizing the great efforts that put us in a position to win."
Lamb emphasized the quick turnaround required in college football: "One of the silver linings in this sport is that preparation is so detailed, you have to move on to the next opponent. UC Davis has our full attention, and we're focused on what it will take to compete with one of the best programs in the country."
On UC Davis and the challenge ahead
Lamb described UC Davis as a model program: "They're ranked sixth nationally, they score seemingly at will, and they're a well-coached, disciplined team. Their quarterback is arguably the best runner we've faced, and their offense is dynamic and versatile. They line up and motion all over the field, with a system that demands attention and precision."
"Defensively, they're proud, aggressive, and prepared. From a program standpoint, they take academics seriously, invest in their facilities, and have built a culture that other Big Sky teams should aspire to. There's a lot for our guys to learn and measure themselves against."
On preparing for a team coming off a bye
Lamb acknowledged the added challenge: "A team coming off a bye, especially one with a strong culture like UC Davis, is dangerous. They can make adjustments and install new elements, so we have to be ready for anything and stay disciplined in everything we do."
On the significance of a home win
While Northern Colorado seeks its first Big Sky home victory, Lamb underscored the importance of player focus: "Most of my focus is on what it would mean to our players to execute at a high level. But I also want the community to recognize and support the effort these guys are putting out there. That kind of pride and energy matters."
On the identity of UNC football
"Who are we? We're a bunch of misfits who pulled ourselves up, developed into fantastic players, and continue to build our culture together," Lamb said. "These guys compete hard, individually and collectively, and they've shown resilience through tough losses. They don't let a win define them, and they certainly don't let a loss define them."
On standout players like Carver Cheeks
Lamb highlighted the impact of players who exemplify the team's culture: "Carver's effectiveness comes from humility and leadership. He's a guy who's been here from the start, worked through challenges, and leads by example. Last week's performance was tremendous, and his growth has been a model for our team. He's earned everything he's received, including his scholarship, through hard work and commitment."
Northern Colorado (3-4, 1-2 Big Sky) faces No. 6 UC Davis (5-1, 3-0 Big Sky) this Saturday. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. MDT at Nottingham Field, with coverage available via ESPN+.
FOLLOW THE BEARS
For complete coverage of UNC Athletics, check out the official homepage at uncbears.com. Follow the football team on Instagram, X and Facebook.
Head coach Ed Lamb met with the media to discuss the challenge ahead, the team's development, and what it takes to continue progressing in the Big Sky.
On the team's recent loss and mindset moving forward
"Coming off a really tough loss, it's a different kind of pain this season," Lamb said. "Our guys recognize that we're good enough to be in every game, and other teams in the league know we're not an easy out. But we also have to balance accountability with recognizing the great efforts that put us in a position to win."
Lamb emphasized the quick turnaround required in college football: "One of the silver linings in this sport is that preparation is so detailed, you have to move on to the next opponent. UC Davis has our full attention, and we're focused on what it will take to compete with one of the best programs in the country."
On UC Davis and the challenge ahead
Lamb described UC Davis as a model program: "They're ranked sixth nationally, they score seemingly at will, and they're a well-coached, disciplined team. Their quarterback is arguably the best runner we've faced, and their offense is dynamic and versatile. They line up and motion all over the field, with a system that demands attention and precision."
"Defensively, they're proud, aggressive, and prepared. From a program standpoint, they take academics seriously, invest in their facilities, and have built a culture that other Big Sky teams should aspire to. There's a lot for our guys to learn and measure themselves against."
On preparing for a team coming off a bye
Lamb acknowledged the added challenge: "A team coming off a bye, especially one with a strong culture like UC Davis, is dangerous. They can make adjustments and install new elements, so we have to be ready for anything and stay disciplined in everything we do."
On the significance of a home win
While Northern Colorado seeks its first Big Sky home victory, Lamb underscored the importance of player focus: "Most of my focus is on what it would mean to our players to execute at a high level. But I also want the community to recognize and support the effort these guys are putting out there. That kind of pride and energy matters."
On the identity of UNC football
"Who are we? We're a bunch of misfits who pulled ourselves up, developed into fantastic players, and continue to build our culture together," Lamb said. "These guys compete hard, individually and collectively, and they've shown resilience through tough losses. They don't let a win define them, and they certainly don't let a loss define them."
On standout players like Carver Cheeks
Lamb highlighted the impact of players who exemplify the team's culture: "Carver's effectiveness comes from humility and leadership. He's a guy who's been here from the start, worked through challenges, and leads by example. Last week's performance was tremendous, and his growth has been a model for our team. He's earned everything he's received, including his scholarship, through hard work and commitment."
Northern Colorado (3-4, 1-2 Big Sky) faces No. 6 UC Davis (5-1, 3-0 Big Sky) this Saturday. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. MDT at Nottingham Field, with coverage available via ESPN+.
FOLLOW THE BEARS
For complete coverage of UNC Athletics, check out the official homepage at uncbears.com. Follow the football team on Instagram, X and Facebook.
Players Mentioned
WR
/ FootballEd Lamb Press Conference 10/22/2025
Wednesday, October 22
Head Coach Ed Lamb Signing Day Press Conference
Monday, October 20
Head Coach Ed Lamb Press Conference 9/24/25
Saturday, October 18
Ed Lamb Press Conference 10/15/25
Wednesday, October 15
