Mike Brohard

Both Colorado State linebackers are among the top 10 in the Mountain West tackles. Elias Larry sits in the top 10 of passes defended. Gabe Kirschke among the top 10 in sacks and forced fumbles.

When a player shows a knack for fireworks, an offensive coach tries to light the fuse as often as possible in as many ways as possible.

IOWA CITY, Iowa – For Maisy Barbosa, there was no slowing down, only speeding up. The best part for coach Christopher Woodard, others followed along.

IOWA CITY, Iowa – Going into the final day, they were looking for more.

FRESNO, Calif. – They entered Saturday night with everything desired within their control. In one quarter, the scenario unraveled for Colorado State's football team.

What Colorado State's defense had done so well since the opening of Mountain West play was execute at a high level. In the first half, particularly the second quarter, the Rams didn't.

Definitely disappointed, and no longer in control of their own fate, Colorado State remains determined to the task.

The offense hasn't come easy for the team this year, which is somewhat surprising with a roster featuring some capable scorers. The overall shooting hasn't reached the expected standard, and the 3-point shooting has definitely lagged behind.

The 27 seniors Colorado State's football team will honor before Friday's game with Utah State were drawn together not just in one class but multiple. And from different schools. Jay Norvell 's arrival as football coach meant he was inheriting a group of players searching for change, and with Norvell bringing a handful of players with him from Nevada – a team which had just beaten the Rams a few weeks prior – led to some odd glances from all corners of the locker room.

Win and advance. Lose and bow out. Win the title, return to the NCAA Tournament. Lose, and the season – and in many instances – a career is completed.