CSU capsules

Passing:

CSU: Quarterback Bradlee Van Pelt leads the MWC in total yards

and is second in passing. Guard Albert Bimper is doubtful to play

for the second straight week after suffering a shoulder and neck

injury. Wide receiver David Anderson needs 45 yards to break the

CSU single-season record for receiving yards.

UNLV: The Rebels were shut out for the first time since 1999 two

weeks ago in a 7-0 loss to San Diego State. Quarterback Kurt

Nanktes was ineffective with an injured groin and was lifted for

true freshman Shane Steichen.

Advantage: Rams

Rushing:

CSU: Running back Jimmy Green’s 46-yard touchdown run against

SDSU should give him significant playing time. Senior Rahsaan

Sanders should start. The Rams’ most effective rusher is Van Pelt,

who has run for 778 yards this season.

UNLV: Running back Larry Croom ran all over CSU for 222 yards

last season. However, he has only run for more than 100 yards once

since suffering an injury against Kansas early in the season.

Advantage: Even

Defense:

CSU: The Rams are hurting at the linebacker. Jahmal Hall and

Eric Pauly are out, and Courtney Jones may not play. Drew Wood will

play on a separated shoulder and Adam Lancicero will get his first

start. The Rams had their best defensive performance against SDSU,

giving up six points and scoring on a Ben Stratton

interception.

UNLV: Strong safety Jamaal Brimmer has nine turnovers, including

five interceptions. UNLV has only allowed two 100-yard rushers this

season. But the Rebels have the worst passing defense in the MWC,

giving up 229 yards passing per game.

Advantage: Even

Special Teams

CSU: Dexter Wynn is second in the MWC in punt returns, averaging

11.5 yards per return. Kicker Jeff Babcock has been up and down

with field goals, but is 8-for-8 on the road this season. He

averages 42 yards per punt.

UNLV: The Rebels are 14th in the nation in punt returns but

115th in kickoff returns. Punter Gary Cook’s 43.5-yard average per

punt is 16th in the nation. Kicker Dillon Pieffer is 15-for-19 on

field goals this season.

Advantage: Rams

Our Pick: Rams 31, UNLV 14