The Week 3 college football schedule features a number of rivalry matchups, including the highly anticipated 2024 Rocky Mountain Showdown between Colorado State and Colorado. This rivalry gained significant attention last year with the arrival of Deion Sanders at Colorado. The teams faced off on September 16, 2023, resulting in a thrilling 43-35 double overtime victory for Colorado, making it one of the most viewed games of the season. Both teams enter this season with a 1-1 record, eager for a noteworthy win to enhance their chances for bowl eligibility.
Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET in Fort Collins and will be broadcast on CBS and Paramount+. The Buffaloes are currently favored by 7.5 points, slightly down from the opening line of 8. The over/under stands at 58.5 points. Before making any decisions on Colorado State versus Colorado, it’s advisable to check the predictions and betting advice from SportsLine’s expert Jimmie Kaylor.
Kaylor is an expert in NFL, college football, and daily fantasy sports, with nearly a decade of experience covering these leagues as a member of the Pro Football Writers of America. His experience as a former college football All-American and NFL player offers him valuable insight when crafting his fantasy and betting strategies. Kaylor has had a notably successful run in college football, completing a profitable 2023 season with a record of 107-45-2, netting an impressive 57.9 units for those who followed his selections.
Kaylor has zeroed in on the Colorado vs. Colorado State matchup and has shared his predictions and picks. Those interested can visit SportsLine for further information. Here are the latest betting lines for the matchup:
– Colorado vs. Colorado State spread: Colorado -7.5
– Colorado vs. Colorado State over/under: 58.5 points
– Colorado vs. Colorado State money line: Colorado -292, Colorado State +231
– Colorado vs. Colorado State streaming: Available on Paramount+ (with a 50% discount on the first year of an annual plan until September 22, 2024)
Reasons for Colorado’s potential success include the talent of Travis Hunter, who has made a significant impact on both offense and defense. With 17 receptions for 242 yards and three touchdowns, he poses a challenge for the Rams’ secondary. Quarterback Shedeur Sanders is also expected to be a top pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. Last season, he threw for 348 yards, four touchdowns, and one interception against CSU.
For Colorado State, playing at home provides a significant advantage. This marks the first Rocky Mountain Showdown at Canvas Stadium since 1996. In their last meeting, the Rams were heavy underdogs but nearly upset the Buffaloes. Freshman running back Justin Marshall has shown promise, rushing for 173 yards in his two games, and the Buffs have struggled with run defense, conceding an average of 153 rushing yards per game.
Kaylor has thoroughly analyzed the matchup and favors the over on the total points. He has identified a crucial X-factor that influences his decisions regarding the spread, which he shares exclusively at SportsLine.
For the predictions on who will win the Rocky Mountain Showdown on Saturday, and to learn more about the key X-factor affecting the spread, visit SportsLine for insights from the expert who achieved significant success in the 2023 season.