SACRIFICIAL LAMBS

Quick history lesson for ya. The ancient Aztecs used to play a sport called “the game” that required to players to get a rubber ball through a hoop without using their hands. The winners were treated like heroes and would celebrate by getting with a huge feast. The losers would have their hearts ripped out of their bodies while they were still alive, and their heads chopped off for religious sacrifice. This is no longer the case, and the Rams can rest comfortably on their flight back from San Diego knowing that, had they lost 2,000 years prior things could be worse. San Diego State looked solid last week against Hawaii, but haven't beaten anyone they weren't supposed to yet. So this week the Aztecs lose to someone they're supposed to beat.

San Diego State's offense is very one dimensional. They will try to run the ball all over Colorado State. Senior QB Ryan Katz has almost as many rushing attempts (60) as he does completions (80). Adam Muema and Walter Kazee have done a nice job of replacing current Denver Bronco Ronnie Hillman. Muema is their workhorse and already has 597 yards after 6 games. Muema and Kazee are not a threat to catch the ball out of the backfield so the Rams should be safe stuffing the box all game. SDSU’s only receiving threat is All-Mountain West TE Gavin Escobar. He has been less effective this year due to SDSU’s inability to pass. San Diego St. uses their receivers for blockers because they never touch the ball. The CSU’s corners might actually look decent this game. Shaquill Barrett, Cory James and James Skelton should be all over the field and Iexpects them to be VIP members of the Aztec backfield.

CSU’s offense should be able to move the ball against the Aztec defense. M.J. McPeek will finally be comfortable and should be able to direct the Rams to some scores. Hopefully CSU can score early for a change and get some early momentum, but don’t hold your breath. Safety Nat Berhe and CB Leon McFadden are the Aztecs leading tacklers, usually a sign of an ineffective front seven. McFadden is dangerous and throwing at him could be costly. McFadden has 3 picks so far this year and returned 2 to the house. I’d liketo see a heavy dose of Chris Nwoke this week. He looked rusty last week, and I think he will be able to make some plays this week if he gets more touches. Colorado State's O-line will have to step up and show that they aren't holding this offense back, and clear some lanes for Nwoke and Donnell Alexander. Look for Crockett Gillmore to have a big game and Charles Lovett and Lou Greenwood look to be catching some passes and some sneaky Wildcats and end arounds.

Coach Mac says he isn’t playing those with sub-par efforts, so lets see him walk the talk. This Rams team is improving and starting to gel offensively. So while the Rams no longer have to worry about getting their hearts ripped out, it’s the Ram faithful that should be wary.

GO RAMS!!!!!