What to expect when Utah has the ball: I guess it depends on the weather. If it's slippery and snowy, expect a more run-based offense. How that develops without Matt Asiata is a big question and I'd expect - if Sausan Shakerin plays - the coaching staff to mix it up between him, Eddie Wide and Shaky Smithson. Hopefully at least one of them can step up if the weather doesn't permit a more pass-oriented game from Terrance Cain.
What to expect when Colorado State has the ball: Read pretty much what I said about the Utes. The Rams rank toward the bottom in the conference in run offense, often relying on the arm of Grant Stucker. That doesn't bode well if weather is bad enough they can't throw the ball down field. However, if the weather is at least clear (though it'll probably be snot-stuck-to-the-face-cold), they most certainly will stick with what has worked this season.
How Utah wins: The Rams aren't better than the Utes. The simple fact is, this is a game Utah should win. This will mark the fourth this season and so far, they're 3-1 in those games. Not bad. But with the weather being a factor, it could certainly neutralize things just a bit - which clearly favors Colorado State. If that happens, expect Utah to run a very conservative offense, relying more on their defense to get them through the game. I know I said I expected an offensive explosion from the Utes this week, but I'm a bit more reserved now that I've seen the weather conditions.
With that said, I still see Utah winning comfortably.
Lucky G. O'Utes proved his luck isn't gone just yet two weeks ago. Will his dancin' wheel Utah to another victory today?
Nothin will stop me Utes. Not the rain, snow or our Fort Collins foe!
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