College Football Top 25: 10 non-ranked teams who could crack the late-season polls

Nov 28, 2014; Colorado Springs, CO, USA; Colorado State Rams wide receiver Rashard Higgins (82) celebrates his touchdown reception in the first quarter against the Air Force Falcons at Falcon Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

No. 3: Colorado State Rams

2014 Finish: 10-3, 6-2 MWC

Last season Colorado State nearly toppled Boise State from atop the Mountain West, and the first year of new head coach Mike Bobo might see that come to fruition in 2015.

The Rams were pretty solid on offense last season, scoring 33.9 points per game, and with Bobo at the helm they could be even better this season. There will be a new quarterback under center, as sophomore Nick Stevens, last year’s backup, is taking over for record-setting Ram Garrett Grayson.

Stevens has picked up on Bobo’s offense quickly, and he’s got some veteran receivers to get the ball to. This offense won’t miss a beat, and will have an even better running game than last year’s 200 yards per game.

On the defensive side of the ball the Rams are moving from a 3-4 base to a 4-3 under new defensive coordinator Tyson Summers. The Rams return four starters in the secondary, which bode well for a passing defense that was ranked 57th in the nation, giving up only 224 yards per game.

Most analysts are looking at Boise State as not only top 25, but as potential playoff contender, but if you overlook Colorado State you’re making a huge mistake. These Rams will be there at the end of the year.