It was a fast start for CSU. After receiving the ball to begin the game, the Rams drove down the field easily in less than two minutes. Quarterback Garrett Grayson hit tight end Kivon Cartwright for the first score of the game and a 7-0 lead for CSU.

The UTEP Miners were quick to return the favor with a 75-yard drive that took 6:45 off of the clock that ended with a touchdown pass from quarterback Jameill Showers to running back Darrin Laufasa.

After a short punt from the Miners Mike Ruggles, the Rams began their drive on at their own 44-yard line. With his second touchdown pass of the game, Grayson hit receiver Rashard Higgins to put the Rams up 14-7 at the end of the first quarter.

Another quick drive from CSU in the second quarter put the Rams up 21-7 and gave running back Kapri Bibbs his fourth touchdown of the year.

Earlier this week, Showers said it was important for his team to get the run game going early but the Rams, who held Alabama to 66 yards rushing last week, held the Miners to 39 rushing yards in the first half.

With 4:34 left to go in the second quarter, the Rams faked a field goal on fourth down and receiver Joe Hansley completed his first career touchdown pass to Cartwright to give the Rams a 28-7 lead.

Grayson is 10-15 for 163 yards with two touchdowns at the end of the first half.

CSU Football Beat Reporter Katie O’Keefe can be reached at sports@collegian.com.