Gunnison, Colo. – Adams State football heads to Gunnison on Saturday, Sept. 21, for its first RMAC game of the season against Western Colorado University. The game, which is also Western Colorado's Homecoming, kicks off at 6 p.m.
The Grizzlies (0-2) are looking to bounce back from last weekend's road loss to Texas Permian Basin as they prepare to face the No. 15-ranked Western Colorado Mountaineers.
Despite early struggles, quarterback Chase Nelson has shown promise, throwing for 404 yards and four touchdowns through the first two games. Running back Ahmare Merrida has contributed on the ground, averaging 47.5 yards per game, while wide receiver Kevin Johnson has been Nelson's top target, with 12 catches for 126 yards and two touchdowns.
The Mountaineers (2-0) have been strong on the ground, rushing for 402 yards over two games. Quarterback Drew Nash has contributed both through the air and on the ground, accounting for six total touchdowns. Their defense, led by standout Cameron Cooper, has been opportunistic, recording three interceptions and multiple sacks in the first two games.
On defense, Adams State will need a strong showing to slow down Western Colorado's offense. Linebacker Seth Shaw leads the Grizzlies with 16 tackles through two games, while fellow linebacker Christian Toeleiu, who has 14 tackles and two tackles for loss, will play a critical role in trying to contain the Mountaineers' rushing attack.
This game marks the 77th annual Colorado Classic Trophy game, the second-longest rivalry in Colorado, behind Western Colorado and Colorado School of Mines. The trophy is currently held by Western Colorado, with a total record of 32-43.
