Homecoming: Colorado State vs San Diego State Preview

Well October has arrived. Leaves are changing colors and falling, and the meat of college football season has arrived. Conference play has arrived even though teams have already played a conference game. Both teams are 0-1 so far and this is a must win for both teams. No team wants to start 0-2 in conference. Colorado State wants to stop a three-game losing streak. It’s homecoming for the Rams, so they’ll want to get some momentum in the last home game for a month. Both teams are complete opposites of each other so this should be an interesting game. For Colorado State to win, here are the three keys for a Rams win.

Date: Saturday October 5^th, 2019 at 8 PM MDT

Forecast: 55 degrees mostly clear at kickoff with 6 MPH winds.

TV/Radio: ESPN2

Line: SDSU - 7.5 over/under 49.5

1. Defense needs to contain the run.

This is probably the most important one, San Diego State is a run first team. They’ll probably run the ball 65% of the time. The Aztecs will primarily use Jordan Byrd and Cameron Bell. It’s important for the Rams to stay in their gaps defensively and control the line of scrimmage. The Aztecs will use a pro style run game so they’ll run it right at you. No read options or the cute stuff. If the Rams can prevent the big play and stay disciplined they’ll have a chance to win this game.

2. Offense needs to start fast and be aggressive.

The offense last week struggled against a good Utah State team. This week is imperative that they get back on track. San Diego State also has a stout defense, and if Colorado State wants to win this game their offense is going to need to make plays. Starting fast will be important because it gives them a lead. If it’s a big enough lead it could force San Diego State to pass their way back into the game. The bottom line is Patrick O’Brien along with this offense needs to play their best game of the season. A high scoring game equals a Colorado State win.

3. Win the turnover battle.

The Rams have had a case of the fumbles. Not being able to hold on to the ball. There is no excuse for that other than a lack of discipline. Whoever wins the turnover battle will win this game. Turnovers change momentum. So if the Ram defense can generate a turnover or 2, that will gives the offense extra possessions. Which will be a necessity for this game.

Prediction: I’m picking the over when it comes to points. Colorado State will score enough points to win this game by the score 28-24. Sending the fans home happy in the early Sunday morning hours.