4 things to know, key matchups and predictions

Colorado Condition (three-three, two-) at Utah Condition (four-two, two-1)

7:30 p.m. Friday, at Maverik Stadium (Logan)

Television/Radio: CBS-SN/1430 AM, 98.1 FM

Line: CSU -three.5

Weather: 24% possibility of thunderstorms, 67 degrees

What to know

Historic defense. It is not an exaggeration to phone this Rams defense among the very best in plan record. The figures back again it up. Past 7 days, in a 29-issue get at New Mexico, CSU gave up 1.two yards per play (a faculty file) and compelled 3 turnovers. Critics will issue to lesser opponents as the purpose for CSU’s latest results. Utah Condition is a more substantial exam. But coach Steve Addazio has completed one thing in his very first comprehensive year that eluded Mike Bobo above five years in Fort Collins: The Rams at last play wonderful defense.

Aggie Assault. Utah State’s offense rolled to big yardage totals in its very first 3 convention video games this year: 440 (at UNLV), 443 (vs. Boise Condition) and 628 (Air Pressure). Graduate transfer quarterback Logan Bonner is fearless throwing the ball downfield at eight.1 yards/attempt. He’s also tossed at least just one interception in every recreation. Bonner’s gunslinger mentality could be the difference. CSU wins if it capitalizes on his blunders. The Rams shed if Bonner shreds their secondary.

Purple zone complications. Rams’ kicker Cayden Camper strike on 11 of twelve field target makes an attempt above the past two video games. That output, whilst remarkable, details to a disturbing trend for CSU’s offense. The Rams have scored touchdowns on just 11 of 27 visits to the red zone this year. Will CSU flip the corner towards Utah Condition? The Agges’ scoring defense ranks No. 10 in the Mountain West (29.5 details/recreation). Quarterback Todd Centeio and the CSU offense have an possibility to get issues clicking.

McBride pride. Addazio’s preseason claim that Fort Morgan native Trey McBride is the nation’s very best tight conclude is getting a actuality. McBride is on speed for a 1,000-property getting year with chunk yardage performs each 7 days. He averaged a year-substantial 19.three yards per catch at New Mexico. But that huge output has resulted in just just one McBride touchdown. Providing him additional chances in the red zone will only result in positive issues for CSU relocating forward.

Important Matchups

CSU entrance seven vs. USU offensive line. The Rams totaled six sacks and seven tackles for loss towards New Mexico as the most current dominant general performance from CSU’s linebackers/defensive line. The Aggies have presented up only 10 sacks all yr. But appear for the Rams to be intense having to the quarterback.

Centeio vs. USU defense. The Rams’ beginning quarterback has not thrown a choose in four consecutive video games. He’s revealed the potential to efficiently manage CSU’s offense to generate wins. Centeio’s subsequent stage is developing additional touchdown chances for the Rams.

Predictions

Kyle Fredrickson, athletics reporter: CSU 24, USU 21

A late Camper field target wins the recreation and offers the Rams a three- commence to convention play. This CSU crew is excellent sufficient to contend in the Mountain West.