Colorado football can ditch 2018 hangover with win over Colorado State
Can Colorado football kick off the 2019 season by winning its home state? Rivalry Week starts early for these two teams.
The Colorado Buffaloes got off to an amazing start in 2018 by winning all of their first five games. This winning streak included victories over teams like Nebraska, UCLA and Arizona State. They also beat Colorado State in their season opener.
A majority of this success could have been be credited to the play of starting quarterback, Steven Montez. However, this five-game winning streak was snapped by a loss to USC, and a seven-game losing streak ensued. The Buffaloes have not won a game since Oct. 6 of last year.
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If you thought that was a rough way to play a season, the Colorado State Rams had it worse. The Rams finished their 2018 season with a five-game losing streak and they only won three total games. They will be looking to improve their record dramatically in 2019.
By default, this game will snap a losing streak for one of the teams.
Here’s how to watch this early-season rivalry game between these two in-state opponents.
Date: Friday, Aug. 30
Time: 10 p.m. ET
Location: Boulder, CO.
Venue: Folsom Field
TV: ESPN
Live Stream: WatchESPN | Fubo TV
Keys to Victory
The Colorado Buffaloes are by far the more talented team. Therefore, their keys to victory are quite simple. All they need to do is to stick to their game plan, trust their coaching staff, and not turnover the ball. Turnovers are only opportunities for the Rams to steal points away and shift momentum. However, playing at home will help the Buffaloes prevent too much of a momentum swing on any given play.
For the Rams, well, it’s an uphill battle. They will need to contain Montez from getting outside of the pocket and chipping away at easy yards, especially on third down plays. Additionally, the defense will need to acquire a “bend don’t break” mentality. If Colorado State can hold the Buffaloes to field goals, it will be able to stay in the game long enough to keep it close.
Betting Odds
Odds courtesy of Bovada
Point Spread: -13.5 Colorado
Over/Under: 56
Prediction
Given that the game is being played in Boulder, and the Buffaloes have a significant talent advantage over Colorado State, it appears clear that Colorado will win this game. However, despite having home field advantage, and an exceptional quarterback, the Buffaloes won’t be without error.
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There will be some growing pains early on in this first game of the season. A slow start will allow the Rams to stay in the game longer and build some sense of momentum. Look for the match to remain close through halftime. However, as the game progresses, Montez will take over and lead Colorado to victory.
Final Score: Colorado State 17, Colorado 28