The Rocky Mountain Collegian

Issue date: 11/21/08 Section: Sports

Media Credit: Brandon Iwamoto CSU linebacker Jeff Horniek (51) takes down Wyoming quarterback Karsten Sween (16) during their game Saturday, Nov. 24, 2008 at Hughes Stadium.

When the Colorado State Rams take the field on Saturday afternoon, they will be playing much more than a typical game.

The Rams (5-6, 3-4 MWC) are set to face the Wyoming Cowboys (4-7, 1-6 MWC) at War Memorial Stadium in Laramie, renewing one of the biggest rivalry games of the season. Not only will CSU be playing for the bragging rights of the Bronze Boot, but also a potential bowl berth - all while in the shadow of the historic 100th installment of the Border War.

Head coach Steve Fairchild said that he appreciates the opportunity to once again be part of such an intense rivalry and has tried to provide a little bit of motivation for the Rams this week in light of the 100th meeting between UW and CSU.

"Just the fact that it's a game that has been played that long and is a rivalry makes it really important," the former NFL offensive coordinator said. "We've had various speakers come over and visit with the team about how important it is, not only to the universities and communities, but to a lot of people."

Wide receiver Dion Morton explained that Fairchild's guests had a positive effect.

"Honestly I didn't hear about that until yesterday at the team meeting," the junior said, referring to the 100th meeting of the rivals. "Whether it's the first meeting or the hundredth, it's going to be a dog fight and it will be real exciting to play in."

Cornerback Nick Oppenneer will be playing against the Cowboys for the first time on Saturday. The junior is familiar with how big the Wyoming game is to Ram nation and looks forward to becoming part of it.

"The Border War has been around forever and I've heard all about it growing up, especially going up to Wyoming to play makes it exciting," he said. "This year just adds a little more to the pot. To play for all those who played before us is exciting in itself."

Wyoming enters the showdown at the end of a tough season and on a one game losing streak. The Cowboys fell to the UNLV Rebels last week 22-14 in Las Vegas, eliminitating themselves from bowl contention.

Continued...

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