Breaking down CSU's non-conference opponents

Hallelujah! Everyone’s favorite time of year is finally here – it’s time to talk college football.

With just about one month until the Rams and Buffs face off in the Rocky Mountain Showdown, it’s never too early to start diving into the schedule. First things first, we’ll look at Colorado State’s non-conference slate. In the coming days, we’ll break down the Mountain West opponents as well.

So wash those gameday jerseys, get your Twitter fingers nice and warm, and start practicing the fight song. Throw away any wedding invitation for the fall and start stocking up on beer now. Football season is back.

While we will look at each of these games again as the season approaches, here’s a little preview to get you thinking about the season.

Week 1 vs. Colorado (Denver)

• 2018 Record: 5-7
• PPG: 27.1 (No. 80 nationally)

Colorado narrowly missed out on a bowl game in 2018. After starting out the season with a five-game winning streak, the Buffs collapsed with seven consecutive losses. The disappointing season resulted in Mike MacIntyre losing his job. The program has since hired former Georgia defensive coordinator Mel Tucker as head coach.

Coming into 2019, there are a lot of questions surrounding the Buffs and what kind of team they will be. With senior quarterback Steven Montez returning and junior wide receiver Laviska Shenault Jr. coming back from injury, the Buffs certainly have potential to be one of the more explosive offenses in the country, though.

Week 2 vs. Western Illinois

• 2018 Record: 5-6
• PPG: 23.9 (*FCS)

Western Illinois had six games decided by seven or less points in 2018 and finished 3-3 in those games. If the Leathernecks find a way to come out on top in more of those close games, WIU may be in for a good season.

While we won’t spend too much time on an FCS opponent, the Rams know that they can’t overlook anyone. Last season’s 16-point loss to Illinois State at home was easily one of the lowest moments of 2018.

Week 3 at Arkansas

• 2018 Record: 2-10
• PPG: 21.7 (No. 114 nationally)

Arkansas was a train wreck in 2018 and never really discovered an offensive identity. The Razorbacks had three different quarterbacks attempt 40+ passes and got outscored by a margin of 90-6 in the final two games of the year.

That being said, SEC resources can never be underestimated and the Hogs will undoubtedly be looking for revenge against the Rams this time around.

Week 4 vs. Toledo

• 2018 Record: 7-6
• PPG: 40.4 (No. 9 nationally)

Toledo was one of the most potent offenses in the nation last season, consistently lighting up the scoreboard on a weekly basis. The Rockets have potential to be really good this season as well.

Running back Bryant Koback, who previously transferred from Kentucky, will return this fall. The preseason nominee for the Doak Walker Award rushed for six yards per carry last season and led the team with 14 rushing touchdowns.

Accompanying him in the backfield is junior running back Shakif Seymour, who has averaged 5.3 yards per carry and has 19 touchdowns in his previous two seasons.