Texas State set a program record with 716 yards of total offense in a 66-27 victory over Colorado State on Thursday night. The Bobcats, coming off a tough 31-29 loss to San Diego State, responded with a performance that showcased sharp execution on both sides of the ball at their home stadium in San Marcos.
Head coach GJ Kinne said the week leading up to the game was intense. "Put a lot of pressure on the coaches this week," Kinne said. "Put a lot of pressure on the players." That pressure translated into four straight touchdown drives after an initial three-and-out, a stark difference from the team's previous struggles this season.
Colorado State entered the game with a defense ranked as the worst in the Pac-12 but an offense that averaged 35.7 points per game, the third-best in the conference. Despite the Rams’ offensive strength, Texas State’s defense held them to four punts and a turnover on downs to open the game. That defensive effort helped Texas State build a commanding 45-21 lead by halftime.
The Rams found some rhythm in the second quarter, capitalizing on a muffed punt to score and quarterback K'saan Farrar connecting on a 37-yard touchdown pass to Terrence Smith Jr. early in the third quarter. Nevertheless, Texas State’s quarterback Brad Jackson maintained momentum with his third rushing touchdown of the night, helping to restore the Bobcats’ control.
Jackson reflected on the difference between this game and their loss to San Diego State. "During that loss, we learned that in the midst of kind of that back-and-forth … we got to be willing to put out the fire," he said.
Running back Torrance Burgess Jr. also contributed to Texas State’s offensive dominance, complementing Jackson’s efforts. The Bobcats’ defense tightened up in the second half, shutting out Colorado State entirely after the third-quarter touchdown, turning the fourth quarter into a formality.
Despite the resounding win, Kinne acknowledged areas needing improvement. Texas State has been outscored 58-34 in third quarters this season, a trend the coach wants to reverse. "We're playing music. We're giving out 'win one for the Gipper' speeches. We're doing everything that we can do at halftime, so we've got to find a way," Kinne said.
Texas State’s record now stands at 3-3 overall and 1-1 in the Pac-12. They will host Utah State next Saturday before facing two road tests against Boise State and Oregon State, both of which have strong records in the conference. Kinne remains cautious but sees potential. "If we play the way we know how to play? We're a tough out," he said.
According to Yahoo Sports.
