Colorado(1-2, 0-0 Big 12) at West Virginia (2-1, 0-0 Big East), Thursday, 5:45 p.m. Mountain
Line: West Virginia by 17.
Series Record: Colorado leads, 1-0.
What’s at Stake
Colorado coach Dan Hawkins remains on the hot seat after starting the season with losses to rival Colorado State and underdog Toledo. However, he kept the critics at bay with a win over Wyoming. The Buffaloes beat a ranked West Virginia team last season on a field goal in overtime. The Mountaineers are coming off a 41-30 loss to Auburn
Key Matchup
West Virginia QB Jarrett Brown vs. Colorado secondary. Brown is coming off a game in which he threw four interceptions, lost a fumble and bruised his non-throwing shoulder. The senior this season has thrown to eight different receivers for 798 yards in the first three games. He’s also rushed for 208 yards. The Buffaloes boast an experienced secondary in cornerbacks Cha’pelle Brown and Jimmy Smith.
Players to Watch
Colorado: QB Cody Hawkins. The coach’s son has drawn a lot of scrutiny in the Buffaloes’ lackluster start. Hawkins is last in the conference in passing efficiency and passing yards per completion.
West Virginia: RB Noel Devine. The speedy tailback had a 71-yard touchdown gallop against Auburn. He has rushed for 320 yards and five touchdowns this season. Last year at Colorado, he had 133 yards on the ground.
Facts & Figures
The Mountaineers will honor former All-American quarterback Major Harris, who played for the team from 1987-89. He will be inducted into the National Football Foundation and College Hall of Fame in December. … West Virginia is 60-2 since 2000 when scoring 30 or more points. … With this game, the Buffaloes will have played on Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday in 2009. … Colorado is 12-for-12 in the red zone this season.
