Colorado (0-0) vs. Colorado State (0-0), Saturday, Noon MT (The Mtn.)
Line: Colorado by 12
Series Record: Colorado leads 59-20-2.
Last meeting: 2009, Colorado State 23-17.
What’s at Stake
For Colorado, this is a make-or-break season for coach Dan Hawkins, who is entering his fifth year and has yet to post a winning record, much less a great year like all those he had at Boise State. A win over the Buffaloes’ archrival would go a long way toward keeping the angry alumni and the boo birds at bay. For Colorado State, coach Steve Fairchild has a young group that ended last season with nine straight losses, so he could use a big win over the Buffs again to jump-start the Rams’ return to respectability.
Key Matchup
Colorado State true freshman QB Pete Thomas vs. the Buffaloes’ defense. If Thomas can solve the Buffs, the Rams could pull off another win in this heated rivalry and also portend good things for the upcoming season. If not, the Rams might have to settle in for a season of learning under their young leader.
Players to Watch
Colorado: Senior WR Scotty McKnight has a school record 36-game streak with at least one reception. When including the 2007 Independence Bowl, McKnight owns the NCAA active best of 37 straight games with a catch.
Colorado State: Freshman LB Mike Orakpo, brother of former University of Texas standout Brian Orakpo, now a budding star linebacker with the Washington Redskins. While comparisons are inevitable, the younger Orakpo hopes to be judged on his own merits.
