Don’t miss this Mountain West showdown on Friday, November 15, 2024!
In a key Mountain West Conference matchup, 2024 collage football week 12 the Wyoming Cowboys will face off against the Colorado State Rams on Friday, November 15, 2024. Wyoming vs. Colorado State Both teams have had their fair share of ups and downs this season, but a win in this game could have significant implications for their bowl eligibility and conference standings. Set to be an intense rivalry game, let’s break down the live odds, key matchups, and predictions for this exciting showdown.
Wyoming Cowboys (6-3, 4-1 MWC)
The Wyoming Cowboys have enjoyed a solid season so far and are in the hunt for a strong finish as they chase a potential bowl bid. Sitting at 6-3 overall with a 4-1 record in Mountain West play, Wyoming has positioned itself near the top of the conference standings.
Offense:
Wyoming’s offense is led by quarterback Trey Herring, a dual-threat playmaker who has contributed both through the air and on the ground. Herring has thrown for over 2,200 yards and 18 touchdowns this season, while also providing a spark with his legs, rushing for 400+ yards. Running back Ethan Blackwell has been an essential piece of Wyoming’s offensive success, consistently putting up solid numbers and helping balance the offensive attack.
Defense:
Wyoming’s defense is perhaps its strongest unit, led by a stout defensive line and a strong linebacker corps. The Cowboys have been difficult to score on this season, ranking near the top of the conference in both total defense and scoring defense. The defensive line has been effective at stopping the run, while their secondary has shown improvement, especially in recent weeks. Wyoming’s ability to get pressure on opposing quarterbacks and force turnovers will be crucial in this matchup.
Colorado State Rams (4-5, 2-3 MWC)
The Colorado State Rams have had a somewhat disappointing season, sitting at 4-5 overall and 2-3 in Mountain West play. While they have shown flashes of potential, inconsistency has plagued the Rams, especially on offense. To remain in contention for a bowl bid, Colorado State will need to win out, beginning with this crucial road game against Wyoming.
Offense:
Colorado State’s offense has been led by quarterback Max Bradley, who has shown some promise but has been inconsistent with his decision-making. Bradley has thrown for over 2,100 yards and 15 touchdowns but has also struggled with turnovers. The Rams’ running game has been less than stellar this season, with Josh Holloway having difficulty finding consistency in the backfield. For Colorado State to stay competitive in this matchup, they will need to establish the run and avoid putting too much pressure on Bradley.
Defense:
The Rams’ defense has been hit or miss this season, often unable to consistently stop opponents from making big plays. While Colorado State has talent in their secondary, particularly safety Jalen Parker, the defensive line has struggled to generate consistent pressure. The Rams will need to find a way to slow down Wyoming’s offense, particularly Trey Herring, and limit the big plays that have hurt them in previous games.
Live Odds & Betting Line
As of now, the latest odds for the Wyoming vs. Colorado State game are as follows:
- Wyoming -7.5
- Colorado State +7.5
- Over/Under: 48.5
Wyoming enters this game as a solid 7.5-point favorite, reflecting their superior overall play this season. The over/under of 48.5 suggests that oddsmakers expect a relatively low-scoring contest, given both teams’ tendencies to grind out wins with their defensive units.
Keys to the Game
- Quarterback Play:
Both teams rely on their quarterbacks to drive their offenses. Trey Herring has been effective for Wyoming, but his ability to avoid turnovers and make smart decisions will be key. For Colorado State, Max Bradley needs to limit mistakes and show more consistency, especially under pressure from Wyoming’s defense. - Defensive Pressure:
Wyoming’s defense has the advantage on paper, and their ability to get after Bradley and shut down Colorado State’s running game will likely determine the outcome. For the Rams, generating pressure on Herring and limiting the effectiveness of Wyoming’s offense will be a tall order but crucial for a potential upset. - Establishing the Run:
Wyoming’s ability to control the ball on the ground with Ethan Blackwell will be key to wearing down Colorado State’s defense. For the Rams, getting Josh Holloway involved early and establishing the run will take some pressure off Bradley and keep Wyoming’s defense on its heels.
Prediction
While both teams are talented, Wyoming’s superior defense and balanced offensive attack should give them the edge in this matchup. Trey Herring and the Cowboys’ ability to control both the passing and running games should allow them to impose their will on Colorado State. On the other hand, Max Bradley will need to have a standout performance for Colorado State, but Wyoming’s defense is likely to create enough problems for him to struggle.
Expect Wyoming to cover the spread and secure a relatively comfortable victory at home.
Final Score Prediction: Wyoming 31, Colorado State 17
Betting Pick
- Wyoming -7.5: Wyoming has been the more complete team this season and should have enough firepower to cover the 7.5-point spread at home.
- Under 48.5: Given both teams’ defensive strengths and tendencies to run the ball, the under seems like the safer play for this matchup.
With bowl eligibility on the line, both teams will come into this game hungry for a victory. Wyoming’s defense and more balanced offense should prove to be the difference, and with a favorable home-field advantage, the Cowboys are likely to get the win. Colorado State will fight hard, but their inconsistency on offense and struggles in key moments make them the underdog in this one.
