CSU SEASON FINALE
Rams take on No. 20 Boise St.
F ORT COLLINS» Regardless of the outcome, Colorado State football’s streaky campaign will reach its conclusion on Friday evening.
The Rams (4-7, 3-4) meet No. 20 Boise State (10-1, 7-0) in Fort Collins for a midday clash at Canvas Stadium.
Considering bowl eligibility is off the table for the second consecutive year, it would appear that head coach Mike Bobo’s squad has nothing to play for.
However, with opportunities to defeat BSU for the first time in program history and knock off its first ranked opponent since 2002, CSU is preparing for the contest in a manner suggesting that there is plenty at stake.
Despite a demoralizing loss in Laramie last week, the Rams look to send off their substantial senior class with a victory.
“We have some tough guys that are going to fight no matter what,” sophomore tight end Trey McBride said. “Winning this game will give us a lot of momentum going into next season, kind of a little stepping stone for us going into the offseason. So, we are just preparing, and I think we will be ready to go.”
“Guys will be ready to play,” starting quarterback Patrick O’Brien said. “It’s going to be like our bowl game. We want to send our seniors out on a high note.”
Boise State ranks within the Mountain West Conference’s top five in nearly every meaningful category — including scoring offense/defense, rushing offense/defense and passing offense/defense. So, earning recognition in the AP Top 25 isn’t merely a fluke.
Offensively, Bobo’s consistent goal of generating a two-dimensional offense remains intact. Although, given the Rams’ recent struggles on the ground, expect Rams offense to rely on the passing game.
“I need to be really good with my eyes this week,” O’Brien said. “They (the Broncos) disguise their coverages very well. Coach said we are going to throw the ball a lot this week. So, it’s really on me to recognize the coverage, understand what I need to do and get the ball to the right people.”
CSU has yet to find a way to produce against the top defensive units in the conference.
In 2019, the Rams averaged 12.7 points and 295.3 yards when facing San Diego State, Wyoming and Air Force — while Boise State’s defense boasts similar potency (allowing 21.3 points per week).
With this in mind, CSU’s defense will need to stay on its Agame in hopes of at least keeping the Rams within striking distance.
Doing so won’t be easy versus the top offense in the league (37.9 points per game), but if the Rams and their seventh-nationally ranked pass defense (175.1 yards on average) maintain their rhythm, there is certainly a chance.
“Our defense ought to be ready this week,” Bobo said. “We have a big challenge in Boise State…So, our goal is to continue to play well on defense. Does that mean a shutout? No. That means hopefully well enough to give your offense opportunities.”