It’s a rivalry that already has significance and meaning each year, but its importance this season has made this a critical Border War for both teams.

The Wyoming Cowboys host the rival Colorado State Rams in the 109th edition of the Border War. This season also marks the 50th for the traveling trophy, the Bronze Boot.

Both teams are trying to stay in the race for the Mountain Division title, as they trail division leader Boise State by one game in the loss column.

Wyoming (5-3, 3-1) won last year in Fort Collins, 38-17. The Pokes are also coming off a confidence-boosting 42-3 victory over New Mexico last week.

Colorado State (6-3, 4-1) enters off its first MW loss at home last Saturday to Air Force, 45-28.

There are a total of 19 players on the Wyoming football roster whose home state is Colorado. One of those is a key playmaker for the Cowboys, junior safety Andrew Wingard. He visited with KOWB’s David Settle about his player of the week honor, this rivalry, CSU’s offense and more.

It’s a big match-up for UW, as their defense looks to slow down a Rams offensive attack that’s averaging 499 yards and 33 points per game.

As for the Pokes, their offense is at 282 yards and 25 points per game. They’ll try to take advantage of a CSU defense that allows 426 yards and 27 points per game.

While Wyoming leads the series since the Bronze Boot was introduced in 1968, 25-24, they trail in the overall series. The Rams lead 58-to-45 with five ties.

This key showdown happens today at War Memorial Stadium in Laramie. Kick-off is at 5 p.m. You can listen the game on KOWB (AM 1290), online or with the KOWB app. The game is being televised on CBS Sports Network.

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