Nevada (1-5, 1-1 Mountain West) at Colorado State (4-2, 2-0)

8:15 p.m. at Sonny Lubick Field TV: ESPN2 Line: CSU by 24½ About Nevada

Nevada had its best offensive showing last week in a home win over Hawaii, 35-21, but it followed losses to Fresno State, Washington State, Idaho State, Toledo and Northwestern. Story lines

• Welcome home. It will have been 35 days since CSU last played on Sonny Lubick Field. A full-house homecoming crowd should set an attendance record for a young stadium. If Fort Collins wants to catch the college football buzz, the Rams will need memorable home performances to generate the interest. CSU’s explosive offense and rejuvenated defense appear up to the task at the midway point of the season.

• Don’t look ahead. On paper, CSU has the tools to manhandle Nevada. But you couldn’t tell based on Bobo’s practice demeanor Wednesday. He was downright mad at the effort from players and coaches who “went through the motions.” The Rams have more difficult challenges ahead than the Wolfpack, but taking things easy in practice for a perceived easy opponent is the perfect recipe for disaster. CSU must maintain focus.

• Nevada surging? Yes, the Wolfpack’s record is lackluster, but their most recent performance inspires confidence. Sophomore running back Kelton Moore was named Mountain West player of the week with 216 yards rushing against Hawaii while junior quarterback Ty Gangi accounted for four passing touchdowns and a rushing score. First-year coach Jay Norvell has a strong offensive mind. It’s only a matter of time before Nevada shows continued offensive improvement.