BYU opened Big 12 play with a 28-17 victory over Arizona in Provo, overcoming early offensive penalties and a time-of-possession deficit to secure a 2-0 start to the season, according to game reports. The Cougars now turn their attention to a century-old rivalry game against Colorado State in Fort Collins, backed by a No. 17 national ranking in the Pick Six Previews evaluation.
BYU Offense Looks to Exploit Colorado State Vulnerabilities
The BYU offense averages 45.5 points per game, ranking 26th nationally, and will face a Colorado State defense surrendering 18.5 points per contest, according to statistical breakdowns. During the win over Arizona, running back LJ Martin carried 20 times for 98 yards, while quarterback Bear Bachmeier added a rushing score and a 61-yard pass to freshman Legend Glasker. According to Pick Six Previews data, Colorado State struggles against long-yardage plays, ranking 126th nationally in defending long rushes and 122th in long pass defense. Colorado State head coach Jim Mora praised Bachmeier’s physical traits, stating, according to team scouting reports, that the quarterback is “as big as most linebackers in the country … makes great decisions, can make every throw on the field, and extend plays with his legs.” BYU also features receiving threats Kyle Kasper, who caught two touchdowns against Arizona, and USC transfer Walker Lyons.
Colorado State Offense Led by Dual-Threat Hauss Hejny
Colorado State enters the matchup with a 2-0 record for the first time since 2011, averaging 46.5 points per game under the direction of former Power Four quarterback Hauss Hejny. According to team statistics, Hejny leads the Pac-12 in quarterback rating, averages 10 yards per carry, and has accounted for five touchdowns in each of the Rams’ first two games. The Rams opened their schedule with a 35-13 Bronze Boot victory over Wyoming and a 58-24 win against Southern Utah. Meanwhile, the BYU defense allows 12 points per game and tightened up significantly in the second half against Arizona, allowing just 87 yards after the break under defensive coordinator Kelly Poppinga. BYU will play without starting safety Raider Damuni, who is out long-term with a leg injury, and linebacker Siale Esera, who sustained an injury during the Arizona contest.
Pro Tip: When evaluating non-conference road matchups in college football, pay close attention to opponent-adjusted metrics like Game Grader, which filter out blowout wins against lower-tier opponents to reveal true team efficiency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I watch the BYU vs. Colorado State game?
The game will be broadcast live on CBS with kickoff scheduled for 5:30 p.m. MT from Fort Collins.
What is BYU’s current national ranking?
According to Pick Six Previews, BYU holds the No. 17 spot in the national rankings following its 2-0 start.
Who are the standout players for Colorado State’s offense?
Quarterback Hauss Hejny leads the Rams’ high-scoring offense, which is averaging 46.5 points per game.
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