Utah (3-1, 0-0) heads to Fort Collins to take on the Rams (3-2, 0-1) in the Utes conference opener. Utah, with star running back Matt Asiata out for the season will try to repeat as the Mountain West Champs. Even with Asiata out, don't expect Utah to be conservative with the running game. A rushing attack led by RB Eddie Wide and Quarterback Terrance Cain will be just as effective or more effective for the Utes. Also, look for Utah to use wide recievers in end arounds for different looks on running plays.
For the Rams, who are on a two game losing streak, look to go back to their winning ways. CSU is led by senior QB Grant Stucker who has passed for 1,245 yards with 10 touchdowns. Success for the rams will depend if they turn the ball over. If Utah establishes the rushing attack and Cain makes good solid decisions, the Utes should take care of business on the road. The field conditions will not be great with a 32 degree high and a 70 percent chance of precipitation -- a mix of rain and snow.
Look for Grant Stucker to keep going with the deep ball and hopefuly convert them unlike the Idaho game. Plus, look for the Rams to challenge the Ute corners with Rashaun Greer who is a stud. If the Rams complete the deep passes then Utah could be in trouble.
Colorado State is coming off of two road losses, at BYU (42-23) and Idaho (31-29). Colorado State has not lost three consecutive games under their head coach, Steve Fairchild. The last time Colorado State beat Utah was on October 8, 2005, the season after Utah went to the Fiesta Bowl. The Rams won on a disputed goal-line call against the Utes who had four tries on the one yard line and came up short.