Pac-12 Predictions: Picks every game against the spread for Week 3

Sep 12, 2015; Piscataway, NJ, USA; Washington State Cougars quarterback Luke Falk (4) attempts to pass against Rutgers Scarlet Knights during second half at High Points Solutions Stadium. The Washington State Cougars defeated Rutgers Scarlet Knights 37-34.

Mandatory Credit: Noah K. Murray-USA TODAY Sports

Wyoming Cowboys At Washington State Cougars

Pullman, Washington

The Line: Washington State -24

Wow, for a team that got waxed in week one by Portland State at home, that sure is a generous line. It really shows how much a road win against a power five conference opponent is worth in the age of non-conference cupcake scheduling. It also shows what people think of this Wyoming team that is 0-2 on the season with losses to North Dakota and Eastern Michigan. Washington State turned their season around by beating Rutgers and they look to have an actual winning streak with a win this week. Watch the Pac-12 Network at 4:30PM, in select markets, on Saturday.

Keys To The Game:

Wyoming ran the ball for a whopping 438 yards on 54 carries against Eastern Michigan, good for 7.4 yards per carry, but they still lost 48-29. That is because the Cowboys gave up over 500 yards of offense, including 330 yards in the air. The Cougars, however, put up 478 yards through the air in beating Rutgers.

Do not look for much defense in this game, and whichever team can limit their turnovers and contain the other side’s offense should come out on top. Wyoming will need to keep this game close to have a chance. If they fall behind and are forced to start throwing the ball, things could snowball on them quickly.

The Prediction:

Wyoming is not a good program, but over 400 yards rushing is impressive. Given that Portland State used a strong running game to beat the Cougars in week one is good evidence that the Cowboys have a better chance than people think. With them getting 24 points, it would be hard to take Washington State here.

On the other hand, Portland State needed help from mother nature to have a chance in that game, and right now the outlook for Saturday is a beautiful day with a high in the mid-70s. Look for a close game, with the Cougars pulling away in the second half. The final score? Washington State 45, Wyoming 31.

Next: BYU At UCLA