The CSU Rams will be looking to regain some swagger Friday night when they take on rival Colorado in the annual Rocky Mountain Showdown at Broncos Stadium at Mile High in Denver.

High-powered CSU offense

The Rams suffered a 43-34 loss to Hawaii last week in the season opener despite some amazing offensive performances. Quarterback K.J. Carta-Samuels passed for 537 yards and five touchdowns – both school records – in his CSU debut, while receiver Preston Williams had nine catches for 188 yards and two touchdowns in his first game as a Ram. Fellow wideout Olabisi Johnson added six catches for 157 yards for the Rams.

Friday’s game, set for 7:30 p.m. and televised by CBS Sports Network, will be the season opener for CU. This will be the 90^th renewal of the Showdown, with the Buffs winning the past three meetings.

Tickets available

If you’re still looking for tickets, here’s some news:

• Less than 500 student tickets remain; purchased through the CSU ticket office they are $20, in person or online.
• General Public tickets can still be purchased through the CSU ticket office until 5 p.m. Thursday by visiting csurams.com/tickets. After 5 p.m., tickets are available through the Denver Broncos.
• The McGraw Athletic Center ticket office and Will Call are open until 5 p.m. Thursday but closed all dayd Friday.
• CSU’s Will Call will open at 1:30 p.m. Friday at the South Box office of Broncos Stadium at Mile High.

Plan on being stuck in traffic

Fans heading to the game should expect heavy traffic on I-25, with normal Friday evening delays combining with Labor Day Weekend travelers and game traffic. Parking lots open at 3:30 p.m.

Fans are also encouraged to head to the stadium gates at least an hour prior to kickoff to deal with long security lines. The clear bag policy will be in place, along with metal detectors.