The Denver Postap Kyle Fredrickson breaks down Week 2 of the college football season, including three story lines to follow from each in-state matchup.
Texas State (1-0, 0-0 Sun Belt) at Colorado (1-0, 0-0 Pac-12)
Saturday at noon; Folsom Field
TV: Pac-12 Network
Vegas odds: CU -35 1/2
Opponent spotlight: Texas State, in its sixth season of FBS membership, defeated Houston Baptist 20-11 last week. The Bobcats have eight first-time starters under second-year head coach Everett Withers.
Three story lines
1. Texas State linebacker Easy Anyama was named Sun Belt defensive player of the week in the opener after five tackles, two sacks, one forced fumble and a blocked extra point. The Buffs will need to be stout up front against an aggressive defense.
2. Can CU reach its offensive potential? It was held scoreless for almost three quarters last week. The Bobcats ranked No. 117 nationally in total defense a year ago, so CU should have an opportunity to rebound.
3. How many newcomers will shine? A potentially large post-halftime lead means more playing time for young CU players. A good chance to earn bigger roles moving forward.
Abilene Christian (0-1, 0-0 Southland) at Colorado State (1-1, 0-0 Mountain West)
1:30 p.m. Saturday; Sonny Lubick Field
TV: Mountain West Network (online only)
Vegas odds: N/A
Opponent spotlight: Abilene Christian trailed 14-7 at halftime last week against New Mexico, but fell 38-14. First-year head coach Adam Dorrel previously won three Division-II national championships at Northwest Missouri State.
Three story lines
1. ACU just completed its full transition to the FCS and is eligible for NCAA and conference postseason championships. The fledgling program will undoubtedly have growing pains.
2. CSU’s high-powered offense was limited to one field goal in the Rocky Mountain Showdown. The Rams need to eliminate errors — they turned the ball over three times against the Buffs — to click like they did against Oregon State. Not getting called for three controversial offensive pass interference calls would help, too.
3. After two interceptions last week, Kevin Nutt established himself as the Rams’ lock-down cornerback in 2017. Will his play continue to trend upward?
Air Force (1-0, 0-0 Mountain West)
The Falcons have a bye this week. Next Saturday at 10 a.m., they play at No. 8 Michigan.
Northern Colorado (1-0, 0-0 Big Sky)
The Bears’ game at Florida which was supposed to bring Northern Colorado a $625,000 payout was canceled as a result of Hurricane Irma. UNC plays at CU next week.
