By Kelly Marshall
Austin Sports Journal

UTSA will close its non-conference schedule Saturday with a trip to Colorado State, where the Roadrunners will look to build on last week’s 48-20 win over UIW and even their record at 2-2.

The Roadrunners (1-2) have played one of the tougher non-conference slates in the FBS, with losses to nationally ranked Texas A&M and in-state rival Texas State.

But their performance against UIW showed flashes of balance.

Quarterback Owen McCown completed 30 of 36 passes for 243 yards and four touchdowns, while running back Robert Henry Jr. continued his torrid pace with 144 yards and two scores, including a 74-yard dash.

Henry enters Saturday leading the nation in rushing yards (480), rushing yards per game (160), yards per carry (10.2) and total touchdowns (7). He has displayed his power and speed with a run of at least 74 yards in all three games this season.

UTSA’s defense, which forced four turnovers against UIW, will face a Colorado State team fresh off a bye week.

The Rams (1-1) dropped their opener at Washington before defeating Northern Colorado 21-17 in Week 2.

Sophomore quarterback Brayden Fowler-Nicolosi has thrown for 312 yards and a touchdown through two games, while Jalen Dupree leads the ground attack with 150 rushing yards. Linebacker Owen Long anchors the defense with 24 tackles.

Saturday’s meeting marks just the third between the programs and the first since 2016. The Rams won the first two contests, including a 23-14 victory in Fort Collins nine years ago. UTSA will look to flip the script behind Henry’s legs and McCown’s efficient passing game.

For head coach Jeff Traylor, the matchup is also about sharpening execution before American Athletic Conference play begins in October. His team has shown it can move the ball against any opponent, logging at least 400 yards of offense in eight of its last 10 games. But limiting mistakes and generating consistent stops will be key against a Rams squad eager to defend its home turf.

With one final tune-up before conference play, UTSA has a chance to make a statement on national television and carry momentum into the AAC race.

Game info

UTSA (1-2) at Colorado State (1-1)

When: Saturday, Sept. 20, 8:30 p.m. CT

Where: Canvas Stadium, Fort Collins, Colo.

TV: FS1