Washington State @ Colorado preview

THE STORY: The scoreboard operator should be busy when Colorado plays its first Pac-12 Conference game, hosting high-powered Washington State. The Cougars are fifth in the country in scoring at 49 points per game, while the Buffaloes are 85th in scoring defense (30.2). Washington State, though, is 68th in total defense (370.3 yards per game) while playing a weak non-conference schedule. With a trip to No. 4 Stanford looming next week, this is a must-win game for Colorado.

TV: FCS-Pacific. LINE: Colorado -2.5

ABOUT COLORADO (1-3, 0-0 Pac-12): The Buffaloes average 86.5 rushing yards, 105th among the 120 FBS teams, and are 97th in third-down efficiency (33.3 percent). The Buffaloes must also shore up their special teams. Colorado had punts of 20 and 35 yards in last week's 37-17 loss at Ohio State. Both led to touchdowns, and a fumbled punt led to a field goal. The Buffaloes lead the Pac-12 with 14 sacks and with a banged-up secondary, they’ll have to keep pressuring the quarterback to have a chance to win.

ABOUT WASHINGTON STATE (2-1, 0-0 Pac-12): The Cougars are sixth nationally in total yards (539.6) and fourth in passing (380). Quarterback Jeff Tuel has been out since breaking his clavicle in the season opener against Idaho State. Backup Marshall Lobbestael, a senior, has stepped in and thrown for 959 yards and 10 touchdowns in victories over Idaho State and UNLV, and a loss at San Diego State. Sophomore Marquess Wilson (15 catches, 429 yards, four touchdowns) is Washington State’s top receiver.

EXTRA POINTS

1. Washington State running back Ricky Galvin, a redshirt freshman, has rushed for 194 yards (8.4 per carry) and three touchdowns. His backup – freshman Marcus Mason – averages 8.5 yards.

2. Senior Rodney Stewart, who has rushed for 278 of Colorado’s 346 rushing yards, was slowed last week by an injured shoulder. Redshirt freshman Tony Jones (eight carries, 41 yards) could see more action.

3. Colorado sophomore wide receiver Paul Richardson had two touchdowns among his 11 catches and set a school record with 284 yards against California on Sept. 10, but has caught just 11 balls for 114 yards and two scores in the other three games.

PREDICTION: Washington State 45, Colorado 41 – Lovers of defense, this game isn’t for you. The Cougars’ balanced attack and big-play capability will be too much for the Buffaloes.