The Colorado State Rams are determined to turn things around as they emerge from their bye week, gearing up for a crucial matchup against UNLV this Saturday. Under the guidance of interim head coach Tyson Summers, the Rams (2-6 overall, 1-3 Mountain West Conference) utilized their off week to regroup and refine their strategies as the season nears its conclusion.
“Our focus needs to be on ourselves,” Summers stated. “We have four games left, and we will face some strong opponents. This week gives us a chance to regain our organizational flow across offense, defense, and special teams. We evaluated our strengths and weaknesses during this time.”
The Rams” last game ended in disappointment, suffering a 28-0 defeat to Wyoming in the Border War on October 25. In that contest, Wyoming effectively stifled the Rams” offensive efforts while capitalizing on their scoring opportunities. Despite this setback, CSU remains optimistic about finishing the season on a high note and is hopeful that a return to routine and structure will help propel them in the right direction.
“We want to see progress,” Summers remarked. “We”ve discussed how to translate our practice efforts into points on the scoreboard.” Colorado State quarterback Jackson Brousseau”s performance will be pivotal as the team seeks to regain its offensive rhythm.
On the defensive side, Summers continues to commend his players, particularly linebacker Owen Long, who ranks third nationally in total tackles with 103 and leads in tackles per game. “Owen has had an outstanding season,” Summers noted. “His durability and leadership have been invaluable.” The Rams hope that their additional preparation time will lead to a positive outcome against UNLV and help them navigate their upcoming games against New Mexico and Boise State at Air Force.
The game against UNLV is set to kick off at 7:30 PM on Saturday at Canvas Stadium.
As for the Rebels, they enter this contest with a record of 6-2 overall and 2-2 in the Mountain West. UNLV is looking to bounce back after suffering consecutive losses to Boise State and New Mexico. Their offense is spearheaded by junior quarterback Anthony Colandrea, who has thrown for 2,000 yards and 15 touchdowns while also accumulating 450 rushing yards and four scores. Junior running back Jai”Den Thomas contributes significantly, with 649 rushing yards and seven touchdowns, while senior receiver Jaden Bradley leads the receiving corps with 586 yards and three touchdowns.
Defensively, senior linebacker Marsel McDuffie tops the Rebels” defense with 62 tackles and two interceptions, supported by senior defensive end Tunmise Adeleye and senior defensive back Aamaris Brown, who leads the team with four interceptions. Historically, CSU holds a 17-7-1 advantage in the all-time series against UNLV, though the Rebels won the last meeting in 2023.
Injury reports ahead of the game indicate that seven players will not participate, including offensive linemen Chandler Brown and John Holthaus, running back Keegan Holles, and wide receivers Jordan Ross and Petey Tucker. Defensive backs Dagan Myers and Elijah Brown are set to return after missing the previous game.
