The Wyoming Cowboys seek to bounce back from a disappointing performance last week in their conference opener versus Hawai’i Saturday night in Laramie.

Wyoming (1-2) had a tough time getting much going last Saturday against Oregon. They gained only 183 yards on offense, and the passing game was largely inept. The ground attack actually had more yards for the first time this season.

After two strong defensive performances to begin the season, the Pokes gave-up 558 yards last week versus the Ducks. Wyoming’s defense spent a lot of time on the field, as Oregon ran 95 plays compared to only 57 for UW.

Much of the talk leading up to this week’s game has been about continuing to grind forward, learn from the mistakes and not panic. Both Coach Bohl and QB Josh Allen know they need to improve, but said they have confidence it will come.

The next step is against the Hawai’i Rainbow Warriors, who visit Laramie for the first time since 2013. They enter this game off a bye week, which gave them extra time to prep for the Pokes.

Hawai’i (2-1) features a balanced attack that averages 490 yards and 34 points per game. The Cowboys might be able to exploit a suspect Rainbow Warriors defense that’s allowing 467 yards and 36 points per game.

Sophomore receiver and punt returner Austin Conway visited with KOWB’s David Settle and admitted to the frustrations with how they’re playing offensively, but they’re ready to move forward. Conway also discussed his confidence in their ability to make plays; feels the start of Mountain West action comes at a good time and more.

The Rainbow Warriors are led by QB Dru Brown. He’s thrown for 257 yards per game with seven TD’s and four interceptions. Wide receiver John Ursua is the main target. He’s got 22 catches and is averaging 175.5 yards per game. Defensively, look for No. 31, linebacker Jahlani Tavai. He’s got 27 tackles through three games.

It’s the 23rd meeting between the two schools in football. Wyoming leads the series 13-to-9. The Rainbow Warriors won by 10 in Hawai’i three years ago. Prior to that the Cowboys had won six straight. There’s also a travel trophy that gets awarded to the winner. It’s the Paniolo Trophy, which is the Hawaiian word for ‘Cowboy.’

Kick-off is at 8:15 p.m., Mountain Time. The game is available on KOWB (AM 1290), through our online stream and the new KOWB app. It’s also being televised on ESPN2.

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