How to watch, storylines, predictions

UTEP (0-3) at Colorado State (1-2)

When/where: 3 p.m. Saturday/Canvas Stadium

TV/Radio: truTV/Rams Radio Network

BetMGM Line: CSU -9.5, 50.5 over/under

Weather: 66 degrees, chance of a thunderstorm

Three storylines

Jilted fans’ response: Ram Nation turned out in full force for last Saturday’s Rocky Mountain Showdown, setting a Canvas Stadium record with 40,099 fans (albeit with some help from Buffs fans). But the Rams wilted in the spotlight of that game in a 28-9 loss. After consecutive home sellouts to start the season, will CSU’s fans show up in droves again this weekend, coming off a massively disappointing defeat to their rival and considering it’s a non-marquee opponent? Or is it back to the norm, a half-empty stadium?

The BFN factor: In his first collegiate start last year, Brayden Fowler-Nicolosi dazzled, and was a central reason why the Rams nearly pulled off an upset of CU in Boulder. But last week against the Buffs, Fowler-Nicolosi turned in a dud. He misfired on several throws on third down, and his interception on an ill-advised back-foot, cross-body heave on the Rams’ opening possession of the second half was the nail in CSU’s coffin. Can the redshirt sophomore find a rhythm, especially with star wide receiver Tory Horton (groin) sidelined?

CSU’s struggling front: The Rams are sorely missing last year’s sack master, Mohamed Kamara, who is now on the Miami Dolphins in the NFL. CSU has only two sacks this year, and defensive end Nuer Gatkuoth remains out (turf toe). The Rams desperately need to generate pressure; against CU, their inability to get to Shedeur Sanders allowed the QB to pick them apart. Locals Gabe Kirschke (Valor Christian) and Mukendi Wa-Kalonji (Grandview) need to jump-start CSU against a Miners team that’s already given up eight sacks.

Predictions

Kyle Newman, sportswriter: CSU 24, UTEP 17

It’s hard to have a lot of faith in this CSU offense with the way the Rams played in their two losses, especially without Tory Horton in the lineup this week. Then again, the UTEP offense has problems of its own, as evidenced by just 10 points in a loss to Liberty last week as QB Skyler Locklear threw two picks and posted a measly 23.6 rating. The Rams pull this out in snazzy uniforms on State Pride day, though it’s a lot closer than green-and-gold faithful would hope with a defensive stand on the final drive to seal the win. Even after this game, there are still plenty of questions about this team and if they can go bowling this season.