The set-up: The 17-9 Colorado State Rams will travel to Arena-Auditorium in Laramie on Thursday to take on the 16-10 Wyoming Cowboys. The Rams are 9-4 in MWC play, just a half-game back of first-place Boise State, while the Cowboys check in at just 6-7 in league action.

Colorado: The Rams come in on a roll, having won six of their last seven, losing only a three-point decision at home to Boise St. in that stretch. Guards Clavell (18.6 & 6.4), Nixon (12.2) and Paige (9.3) provide an excellent perimeter trio, while the 6-8 Omogbo (14.1 & 10.6) takes care of the frontcourt.

Wyoming: The Cowboys come in 2-3 in their last five games, falling to Boise State, San Diego State and Utah State while beating Air Force and Fresno State in that span. Guard James (14.8 & 4.7) leads in scoring but gets contributions from three other perimeter players, McManamen (12.0), Gorski (8.7) and Adams (7.0). The 6-8 Dalton (12.7 & 8.8) is the team's second-leading scorer and best rebounder but comes off the bench. The starters up front are the 6-9 Herndon (10.7 & 6.1) and the 6-10 Naughton (5.2 & 3.4).

The pick: The Rams have had the better season (surely in MWC play) but I'm not convinced they are the better team. My 8* play is on Wyoming.