Idaho (8-3) vs.

Southern Mississippi (7-4)

When: Today, 3 p.m.

Where: Boise, Idaho

TV: ESPN2

Line: Southern Mississippi by 16 1/2

Series record: Idaho leads 1-0

Outlook: The Vandals, in their third season in Division I-A, use a West Coast offense featuring freshman QB John Welsh and senior RB Joel Thomas (1,229 yards rushing, 16 TDs). The unit ranks 19th in the nation in total offense (444 ypg). Southern Mississippi lost to national powers Penn State, Texas A&M; and Alabama, along with unbeaten Tulane. QB Lee Roberts is an accurate passer with a big-time target in Sherrod Gideon (66 catches, 1,186 yards, 13 TDs). Freshman RB Derrick Nix had 1,180 yards rushing. The defense is led by standout DE Adalius Thomas (12 1/2 sacks).

Pub Date: 12/30/98