UTEP (0-3) at Colorado State (1-2)

When/Where: 3:00 p.m. Saturday/Canvas Stadium

TV/Radio: truTV/Rams Radio Network

BetMGM Line: CSU -9.5, 50.5 over/under

Weather: 66 degrees, thunderstorms possible

Three storylines

Reaction of the spurned fans: Ram Nation was at full strength for last Saturday’s Rocky Mountain Showdown, setting a new Canvas Stadium record with 40,099 fans (albeit with some help from Buffs fans). But the Rams faltered under the spotlight of this game, losing 28-9. After two sold-out home games to start the season, will CSU fans come out in droves again this weekend after a hugely disappointing loss to their rival against an opponent with little fanfare? Or will it be back to normal, a half-empty stadium?

The BFN factor: In his first collegiate start last year, Brayden Fowler-Nicolosi shined and was a major reason the Rams nearly pulled off an upset win over CU in Boulder. But last week against the Buffs, Fowler-Nicolosi was a bust. He missed several third-down throws and his interception on an ill-advised back-foot cross-body heave on the Rams’ first possession of the second half was the nail in CSU’s coffin. Can the redshirt sophomore find his rhythm, especially with star wide receiver Tory Horton (groin) out?

CSU front weakens: The Rams are sorely missing last year’s sack champion, Mohamed Kamara, who is now with the Miami Dolphins in the NFL. CSU has just two sacks this year and defensive end Nuer Gatkuoth is still out (turf toe). The Rams desperately need to apply pressure; against CU, the quarterback was able to pick them apart because they couldn’t get to Shedeur Sanders. Locals Gabe Kirschke (Valor Christian) and Mukendi Wa-Kalonji (Grandview) will have to get CSU back on track against a Miners team that has already allowed eight sacks.

Predictions

Kyle Newman, sports journalist: CSU 24, UTEP 17

Given the Rams’ performance in both of their losses, it’s hard to have much faith in CSU’s offense, especially without Tory Horton this week. On the other hand, UTEP’s offense has its own issues, as evidenced by just 10 points in a loss to Liberty last week, when QB Skyler Locklear threw two interceptions and posted a measly 23.6 rating. The Rams pull this off in fancy uniforms on State Pride Day, though it’s a lot closer than green and gold fans would hope, as they showed a defensive stance on the final drive that secured the win. Even after that game, there are still a lot of questions about this team and whether it can bowl this season.