Colorado State Rams (0-1) vs. Colorado Buffaloes (2-0)
Colorado State Rams vs. Colorado Buffaloes 9/16/23 – Intriguing matchups define the essence of college football, and the NCAAF Week 3 clash between the struggling Colorado State Rams and the unbeaten Colorado Buffaloes is no exception. This in-state rivalry is set to take center stage on Saturday, September 16, 2023, at 10:00 PM ET. Fans eagerly awaiting this game can catch all the action live on ESPN at the Folsom Field.
Running back Avery Morrow hasn’t provided Colorado State with much needed inspiration on offense; his stats demonstrate the Rams’ struggles by only managing 11 attempts for 29 yards at an average 2.6 average yards per carry rate. Without an effective ground game, Colorado State must rely heavily on their passing attack, placing additional stress on both quarterback and offensive line alike. Wide Receiver Justus Ross-Simmons has stood out, collecting five receptions totaling 123 yards with one long catch covering 75 yards; yet more balanced playmaking would enable Colorado State to fully take advantage of his talents.
On the flipside, Colorado has found success through momentum. Running back Dylan Edwards has been particularly effective, amassing 15 rushing attempts for 79 yards at an average 5.3 yards per carry and scoring one touchdown on 15 attempts. Wide receiver Xavier Weaver has also been key for Colorado with 288 receiving yards on 16 receptions for reliable hands and route running ability that have enabled Colorado to exploit the Rams’ secondary. If you’re looking for the free expert NCAAF picks, consider their matchups carefully.
Colorado State Rams vs. Colorado Buffaloes Game Info
| When: | Saturday, September 16, 2023, at 10:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Folsom Field |
| TV: | ESPN |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Brayden Fowler-Nicolosi QB vs. Shedeur Sanders QB
For the Rams, quarterback Brayden Fowler-Nicolosi has put up some respectable numbers. With 13 completions on 20 passing attempts, he’s amassed 210 yards and boasts a 65% completion rate. His average of 10.5 yards per attempt indicates that he is not afraid to air the ball out. Despite the numbers, Fowler-Nicolosi’s decision-making under pressure could be a point of concern, given his one interception.
In contrast, Shedeur Sanders of the Buffaloes has been nothing short of remarkable. Completing 69 of his 89 attempts, he’s thrown for 903 yards at an impressive 77.5% completion rate. Sanders has managed to keep his slate clean with zero interceptions, which speaks volumes about his decision-making and poise under pressure, although he has been sacked 11 times this season.
NCAAF Odds/Point Spread: Colorado Buffaloes -3000, Total Odds: 63
The betting odds show a substantial favor towards the Buffaloes, making them the clear favorites with a -3000 moneyline and a spread of -23.5 at -110 odds. With a total set at 63, the odds suggest a high-scoring affair.
Colorado State Rams Betting Trends
The Colorado State Rams have actually shown resilience against the spread, going 4-1 in their last 5 games. However, their woeful record of 3-16 straight-up in their last 19 games paints a grim picture. Also, their last 5 matchups against the Buffaloes have resulted in losses both straight-up and against the spread. This underscores the uphill battle they face, especially given their recent road game woes, where they are 1-8 in their last 9.
Colorado Buffaloes Betting Trends
Although Colorado Buffaloes’ straight-up record is not particularly inspiring at 3-12 in their last 15 games, they’ve been on an upward trend lately, as indicated by their current 2-0 standing. Their previous 6 home games have generally seen lower-scoring affairs, with the total going under in 5 out of 6 matchups against the Rams. This might conflict with the odds suggesting a high-scoring game.
Colorado State Rams vs. Colorado Buffaloes 9/16/23 Betting Picks
Given the glaring disparities in team performance and the betting odds, Colorado Buffaloes appear to be the safer pick for this matchup. The home-field advantage should further tilt the scales in their favor. The Rams have been struggling both offensively and defensively, and this game could serve as a harsh reality check. For those looking to place wagers, considering a prop bet for Xavier Weaver’s receiving yards could yield benefits, as well as going under on the total given both teams’ recent trends. For more insights and potential betting opportunities, you can also explore some free sports picks.
Free Pick and Prediction: Colorado 42, Colorado State 137.