James Morehead News

Maybe it was inevitable that the two worst teams in the Mountain West settled the basement battle with one of the most entertaining games of the season.

LAS VEGAS - Steve Fairchild is adamant that no one game ever will define his CSU football program.

Ryan Lindley threw a career-best six touchdown passes and DeMarco Sampson hauled in 15 catches for 257 yards, helping San Diego State rally for a 42-28 win over Colorado State on Saturday.

Defense clearly was not a strength last season for the CSU football team. The Rams, despite going 7-6 and winning a bowl game, statistically were among the nation's worst teams in several areas.

As most people returned to work Tuesday from the holiday weekend and Colorado State fans had a chance to gloat over the 23-17 win over Colorado, the Rams themselves weren't as smug.

To the red-head CU fan picking their nose on the big screen: You're not going to find a victory up there.

James Morehead of CSU celebrates a sack on a frustrated Cody Hawkins in the Buff loss....Cliff Grassmick / September 6, 2009... The Colorado football team struggled for much of Sunday's season opener and lost at home to rival Colorado State 23-17. The Rams won in Boulder for the first time since 1986.

Fans who want to get an early look at the CSU football team will have to show up at one of the weekday practices on campus.

The day was spent smiling for the camera. Thursday was media day, with Colorado State's football team lining up for the team photo, then gathering with their position mates.

Out of the gate With an unstable defensive line a year ago that graduated three of its four starters.

Out of the gate With an unstable defensive line a year ago that graduated three of its four starters.