FORT COLLINS — Although the Rocky Mountain Showdown between Colorado State and Colorado is still three-plus weeks away, coach Steve Fairchild has already begun to prep his team.
“I think it will be a very good barometer for our program to see where we’re at,” Fairchild said at CSU’s annual football media day Thursday.”What you try to do with your opener is to install your offense accordingly throughout the two-a-days. We will do some more detail work as we get going.”
His coaching staff has been mentioning the game during preseason practices.
“It’s always going to be a great game,” wide receiver Dion Morton said.
Scrimmage time. The team will hold a situational scrimmage Saturday at Hughes Stadium. Fairchild will have his players work on game-like situations, such as converting on third down.
QB derby. Fairchild said there is still no time limit on picking a starting quarterback. Senior Grant Stucker, sophomore Klay Kubiak and junior college transfer Jon Eastman are all in the mix.
“We aren’t looking for any big-time throws or spectacular plays. We just want a guy to go out there and operate, not beating us and just consistently functioning well.”
Footnote. After six consecutive days of practices, including Wednesday’s two-a-day in full pads, players had Thursday off while the athletic department hosted its annual media day. The coaching staff and players were on hand while they posed for team photos.
New look. The grand opening for the new indoor practice facility and academic and training center will be Sept. 18 at 1 p.m. Tours of the buildings will follow the ceremony. The football team has already practiced on the indoor field, and Fairchild said it’s “fabulous.”
Anica Wong, The Denver Post
