The #5 TCU Horned Frogs(4-0) open their conference schedule with their first trip out of Texas this year when they visit the CSU Rams(1-3). TCU is tied for the highest ranked team ever to visit Hughes Stadium. The CSU Rams got their first victory in over a year when they beat Idaho in their home opener last week. Last year TCU dominated the Rams in Fort Worth 44-6. The last trip to Fort Collins almost didn't go so well for the Frogs in a very close 7-13 TCU win. TCU will have the target on their back this entire year and CSU gets the first shot in the Mountain West. This game could be a close victory for either team or it could be the big blowout by TCU.
Under Steve Fairchild the Rams have played very well against to top teams at home. They have failed to close any of the games out against a ranked team but have been close in everyone. With this team it is hard to tell how they will fare against TCU.
The Rams defense has given up a lot of points and are going against a very good offense. Andy Dalton is some what of a dual threat but he is no Colin Kapernick who tore the Rams apart for 51 points. The fast linebackers of CSU should help keep Dalton in check with his rushes. Passing he might be able to tear apart the Rams secondary that has struggled with giving up long plays. It is not just the young players struggling, Momo Thomas got burnt on a deep pass last week against Idaho. Expect Dalton to test out each and everyone of the corner backs on the CSU defense. Senior wideouts Jeremy Kerley and Bart Johnson should make some big plays as the Rams lack the play makers to match them. In the running game the Rams have done a decent job of stopping teams not named Nevada this year. Meanwhile TCU comes in with Ed Wesley as their leading rusher as he will look to get back to his early season form.
On defense TCU is stout as ever and will look to cause problems for freshman Pete Thomas. The Horned Frogs looked a bit exposed against SMU. However, if TCU comes in focused it could be a long day for the Rams on offense, especially the running game. Raymond Carter had his breakout game last week with 100+ yards receiving and rushing and will look to keep it going against TCU. The way the CSU offensive line has played they could have their hands full with Wayne Daniels who has 3.5 sacks already this year. It will be fun to see what Pete Thomas can do against his toughest opponent so far.
It doesn't look good on paper or really anywhere for that matter for the Rams. TCU could have this one over quickly if they play up to their ability. If they give the Rams a chance there might be a fun matchup between David and Goliath.