The momentum is growing on the south side of Kalispell.

The Flathead Braves (2-1) have a chance to match last season’s win total in Week 4 as they host the Missoula Big Sky Eagles (1-2) for homecoming at Legends Stadium tonight at 7.

After a thrilling 21-17 victory over Helena Capital, where the Braves scored 14 unanswered points in the final two minutes of play, Flathead is preparing for an opponent with a similar philosophy — run the ball.

While the Braves totaled 309 rushing yards against Capital, Big Sky beat Missoula Sentinel 33-17 by racking up 338 yards on the ground. Big Sky running backs Cory Diaz and Michael Banna each broke the century mark and scored twice against the Spartans — Diaz carrying 29 times for 177 yards and Banna 18 times for 114.

“They’ve got two really good running backs who are big and break a lot of tackles,” Flathead coach Kyle Samson said.

“They’re offensive line gets off the ball very well. We’ve got to stop their running game. Our defense has to be ready to go.”

The Braves defense is coming off a week where it captured four turnovers, including linebacker Logan Wilson’s forced fumble to set up the Braves winning score. With a defensive line boasting standout end, Aaron Siderius, the battle in the trenches could decide the outcome.

The same could be said about the Braves’ offense. While Flathead averages just 77 yards through the air, it has rushed for 197 yards a game this season. With junior running backs Josh McCracken and Payton Boyce, who’ve combined for 480 rushing yards and five total touchdowns, the Braves have easily controlled the time of possession while taking some pressure off senior quarterback Easton Johnson.

“We always want to try to be as balanced as possible,” Samson said, “but whatever the defense is giving you got to take that. Our offensive line did a great job last week and has done so all season.

“I think the kids have had a great week of preparation and practice. They’ve refocused after a big win, and they’re buying into taking it one week at a time.”

Homecoming is always a special game, but after a 3-7 season in 2013, the Braves have a chance to earn their third win early in the season, improving their chances at postseason play.

“I think its speaks volumes to our senior leadership,” Samson said.

“Our senior class has really worked hard this summer, buying into my philosophies as a coach. I think it’s a tribute to those guys, but also my assistant coaches as well. They do a great job preparing our kids each week and I know our kids loves playing for these guys.”

Both of Flathead’s victories have been by a combined seven points. With Diaz and Banna dueling McCracken and Boyce, Braves fans could be in for another heart-pounder at Legends Stadium.