Colorado State vs BYU Prediction & Betting Tips for Week 3 on 9/19/2026

As we head into Week 3 of the 2026 college football season, the BYU Cougars, ranked #11 in the AP Poll, travel to Fort Collins to face the Colorado State Rams. Both teams enter the game with a perfect 2-0 record, setting the stage for an intriguing battle under the lights at Sonny Lubick Field at Canvas Stadium. The game is set to kick off at 7:30 PM and will be broadcast on CBS.

The BYU Cougars have shown impressive form this season, coming off two commanding victories, including a decisive 63-7 win over Utah Tech. Playing in the Big 12 conference, the Cougars have started strong, showcasing their ability to dominate both on the ground and through the air. They are yet to play an away game this season, adding an extra layer of intrigue to this matchup.

Meanwhile, the Colorado State Rams, representing the Pac-12, have also enjoyed a strong start, with notable victories over Southern Utah and Wyoming. The Rams have been able to leverage their home-field advantage at Sonny Lubick Field, where they remain undefeated this season. With both teams looking to maintain their perfect records, Saturday’s game promises to deliver some exciting college football action.

Colorado State vs BYU At a Glance

• Game Location: Sonny Lubick Field at Canvas Stadium in Fort Collins, CO
• Game Time: Saturday, September 19, 2026 at 7:30 PM
• TV Channel: CBS
• Weather: Outdoor Field
• BYU Cougars Record: 2-0, ranked #11 in AP Poll
• Game Odds: BYU favored with a moneyline of -1080, spread -18

Colorado State Rams Ready to Defend Home Turf Against BYU

Offensive Performance Overview

The Colorado State Rams have kicked off their 2026 season with a strong offensive showing, scoring 93 points in their first two games, ranking them 18th nationally. Their passing attack, led by Darius Curry, has accumulated 624 yards, placing them 29th in the nation. The rushing game isn't far behind with 458 yards, holding the 30th spot.

In their most recent game against Southern Utah, the Rams showcased a balanced offensive attack with 382 passing yards and 300 rushing yards. This balanced approach keeps defenses guessing and has been a key factor in their early-season success.

Defensive Standout Statistics

On the defensive side, Colorado State has been effective, allowing only 37 points in two games, ranking them 25th nationally in points against. The Rams' defense has been aggressive with 5 sacks, placing them 8th nationally, and they've been opportunistic with 5 interceptions, ranking 6th.

Colorado State's ability to recover fumbles has been another strength, with 3 recoveries already this season, ranking 4th nationally. This defensive prowess provides a solid foundation for the team to build upon as they face tougher opponents.

Key Players to Watch

Quarterback Darius Curry is a pivotal player for the Rams, with prior-season stats showing him as a reliable passer. He has managed to keep turnovers to a minimum, with only 7 interceptions last season.

On the receiving end, Tay Lanier and Tommy Maher have been standout performers. Lanier leads the group with 35 receptions from last season, while Maher has been effective with 32 receptions, though his status for the game is questionable due to an undisclosed injury.

Upcoming Challenges

The Rams have a challenging schedule ahead, starting with a home game against BYU. Following this, they will travel to face UTSA, a game that will test their ability to perform on the road.

Subsequent games against Oregon State and Texas State will further test their resilience, especially as they aim to maintain their unbeaten start to the season.

Team Betting Trends

• SU - As Favorite: 16-4 (80.0%) in last 20 games
• O/U - All Games: 4-0 (100.0%) in last 4 games
• O/U - Home Games: 3-0 (100.0%) in last 3 games
• ATS - After Win: 8-2 (80.0%) in last 10 games
• SU - Home Games: 14-7 (66.7%) in last 21 games

BYU Cougars Travel to Face the Colorado State Rams

Quarterback Spotlight

The Colorado State Rams will rely on their starting quarterback, Clay Millen, to steer the offense. Millen's ability to read defenses and make quick decisions will be critical against a BYU defense that ranks 14th in points allowed this season.

Millen's performance will hinge on his connection with his receivers, especially in crucial third-down situations. With BYU's defense being adept at recovering fumbles and interceptions, protecting the ball will be a priority for Millen.

Offensive Dynamics

The Rams' offensive line will be tasked with providing ample protection to enable a balanced attack. They must focus on mitigating the aggressive pass rush from BYU, which has already accumulated four sacks this season.

Running back Avery Morrow is expected to shoulder a significant portion of the rushing workload. His ability to find gaps and exploit the Cougars' front seven will be key in opening up the passing game for Millen.

Defensive Challenges

Colorado State's defense faces the challenge of containing BYU's potent offensive unit, which ranks 20th in points scored this season. A primary focus will be limiting the impact of BYU's running back, LJ Martin, who has consistently demonstrated his rushing capabilities.

Defensive end Mohamed Kamara will play a pivotal role in pressuring BYU's quarterback, Bear Bachmeier. His performance on the edge could disrupt the Cougars' offensive rhythm and force them into unfavorable situations.

Special Teams and Intangibles

Kicker Michael Boyle will need to capitalize on scoring opportunities, especially in a game where field position could prove decisive. His accuracy and range could be critical in close situations.

The Rams must also minimize penalties and mental errors, as these could provide BYU with the momentum shifts they need. Discipline and focus will be essential components for Colorado State throughout the game.

Team Betting Trends

• SU - All Games: Last 12 Games (2025–2026) → 7-5 (58.3%)
• ATS - Home Games: Last 7 Games (2025–2026) → 5-2 (71.4%)
• O/U - After Loss: Last 5 Games (2025–2026) → 3-2 (60.0%)
• SU - After Win: Last 8 Games (2025–2026) → 5-3 (62.5%)

Colorado State vs BYU Prediction: Over 52.5

Both Colorado State and BYU have shown strong offensive capabilities this season. Colorado State has scored 93 points so far, ranking them 18th, while BYU has put up 91 points, placing them 20th. With both teams averaging over 45 points per game, the potential for a high-scoring game is evident.

Colorado State has consistently hit the over in their recent games, going 4-0 in their last four. At home, they're 3-0 for overs in their last three games. This trend suggests that Colorado State's games tend to result in more points, especially in their home environment.

BYU's offensive prowess continues to be effective, particularly as favorites, with a high-scoring track record. They have gone over in 19 of their last 28 games as favorites, showing their ability to contribute significantly to a higher total score. The combination of both teams' offensive strengths makes the over an appealing option.

Considering these factors, the prediction leans towards a final score that surpasses the set total of 52.5. Projecting a game where both teams utilize their offensive strengths, the expected outcome is a game that could see Colorado State 38 - BYU 34, surpassing the over threshold comfortably.

• Colorado State vs BYU Prediction: Over 52.5
• Colorado State vs BYU Score: Colorado State 38 - BYU 34

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