In a matchup that kicked off conference play with a bang—or rather, a thud for the visitors—San Diego State Aztecs dismantled the Colorado State Rams 45-24 on Friday night at Snapdragon Stadium. The game, broadcast on CBS Sports Network, saw the Aztecs surge ahead early, leaving little room for doubt about their home-field prowess. Colorado State, limping into the contest with a 1-3 record, hoped a fresh start in Mountain West action might ignite their sputtering offense. But SDSU's defense, stingy and relentless, had other plans.
From the outset, the Aztecs controlled the tempo. Quarterback AJ Duffy connected on key passes, while the run game pounded away for 180 yards. San Diego State's 45 points marked their highest output since last season's opener, a stark reminder of their potential in this, their final year in the conference before shifting to the Pac-12. Colorado State managed a late rally, scoring 24 in the second half, but it felt too little, too late. Their quarterback, fresh off a midseason switch, showed flashes but couldn't overcome the three turnovers that plagued the Rams.
Indeed, the predictions leading into this clash had leaned toward a closer affair. Analysts pegged SDSU as slight favorites by 3.5 points, expecting Colorado State's improved rushing attack to keep things competitive. However, the Aztecs' secondary shut down those hopes, forcing fumbles and interceptions that turned the tide decisively. For CSU coach Jay Norvell, it's another chapter in a frustrating season—defensive lapses and offensive inconsistencies that now sit at 1-4 overall. SDSU, meanwhile, improves to 4-1, bolstering their bowl eligibility dreams.
Moreover, this blowout underscores broader shifts in the Mountain West landscape. San Diego State's impending departure adds an emotional layer to their dominance, while Colorado State grapples with rebuilding amid roster turnover. The Rams' next test comes against UNLV, where redemption might finally emerge. But as these teams navigate the conference grind, one can't help but wonder how the Aztecs' firepower will translate in their new conference home next year.