
BYU’s Advanced Metrics Favor Against Colorado State Despite Injury Concerns
No. 11 BYU Cougars face Colorado State Rams in Fort Collins on Saturday, with advanced metrics favoring BYU’s explosive offense and run game despite potential defensive injuries. BYU ranks 23rd in explosive play rate, while Colorado State allows the 131st most explosive plays nationally. The Cougars have zero giveaways, countering Colorado State’s 1st-ranked turnover forcing. BYU’s success rate on offense (9th nationally) contrasts with Colorado State’s 92nd-ranked success rate allowed, suggesting BYU can sustain drives. However, Colorado State’s offense is boom-or-bust, ranking 5th in avoiding third downs on touchdown drives. BYU may be without starting linebacker Siale Esera, who exited the Arizona game, and has already lost safety Raider Damuni and running back Sione Moa for the season. The Cougars are coming off a 28-17 win over Arizona, where QB Bear Bachmeier threw for 217 yards and three touchdowns. This is the highest-ranked opponent to play at Colorado State’s Canvas Stadium since its 2017 opening.













