September 14th 2024.
Pre-game updates and predictions were buzzing as the highly-anticipated Rocky Mountain Showdown between the Colorado State University (CSU) Rams and the University of Colorado (CU) Buffaloes drew near. Sportswriter Kyle Newman predicted a close game with a final score of CSU 31, CU 28. Both teams were at a crucial point in their seasons, and this game could make or break their success moving forward.
Newman believed that this game would mark a turning point for the Rams, with their first win over the Buffaloes since 2014 and a statement victory under the new leadership of Coach Norvell. He predicted a strong defensive performance from CSU, led by their defensive front and highlighted by a late interception by Henry Blackburn. Quarterback Brayden Fowler-Nicolosi was also expected to deliver a clutch performance, propelling the Rams towards a breakout season and their first bowl appearance since 2017. On the other hand, Newman foresaw a tough road ahead for the Buffaloes, with back-to-back losses to rivals due to their struggling protection of the quarterback and defense. The reality of their challenging Big 12 schedule would hit hard, and their season under Coach Prime would spiral.
Sports columnist Sean Keeler had a different prediction, with the Buffaloes coming out on top with a final score of CU 33, CSU 21. He noted the unpredictability of the Rocky Mountain Showdown, where underdogs often come out on top. Both teams had their flaws, but Keeler believed that CU had the advantage, especially with the speed and agility of quarterback Shedeur Sanders. He also mentioned the importance of a healthy Sanders for CU's success in this game.
Sports editor Matt Schubert predicted a more lopsided victory for the Buffaloes, with a final score of CU 42, CSU 24. He acknowledged CSU's potential with a returning starting quarterback and talented weapons around him, as well as the advantage of playing on their home turf. However, Schubert also pointed out that the Rams had not looked impressive in their first two games, while the Buffaloes had shown promise, particularly on defense. He believed that CU's talent advantage and a healthy Shedeur Sanders would lead them to a comfortable win.
The buildup to the Rocky Mountain Showdown was not just about the game itself, but also the implications it held for the two coaches, Deion Sanders of CU and Jay Norvell of CSU. Keeler highlighted the pressure on Coach Prime to deliver a win after being embarrassed by a rival team in their previous game. He also noted the potential consequences of another loss for the team's morale and unity. On the other hand, CBS analyst Ross Tucker believed that Coach Norvell had more at stake, given the struggles of the Rams in handling adversity and the possibility of losing to two of the four teams they had beaten in the previous season. The outcome of this game would have a significant impact on the direction of the season for both teams.
For CSU linebacker Chase Wilson, the Rocky Mountain Showdown held a special meaning as he had grown up watching the game with his family. However, last year's close loss in double overtime had left a sour taste, with mistakes on defense tarnishing the game for him. He and his team were determined to make up for it and come out on top this time.
In a surprising turn of events, the CSU Rams announced their move to the Pac-12 conference, joining former conference members CU. University president Amy Parsons expressed her excitement and revealed that this had been a long-term goal for the school. She believed that this move would bring immense opportunities for CSU and was proud of the progress they had made as a university to make this possible.
In the end, the Rocky Mountain Showdown was not just a game, but a significant event that had the potential to shape the future of two rival teams and their coaches. The excitement and anticipation surrounding the game were palpable, and all eyes were on the outcome, which would undoubtedly have a ripple effect on the rest of the season for both teams.
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