Utes come back on Rams, 71-66

Visiting Utah used an 11-0 late-game run to defeat Colorado State, 71-66 Saturday night in Mountain West Conference men’s basketball action in Moby Arena.

Colorado State had a 57-53 lead with 7:42 to play in the game when Darien Chavis hit a layin. Over the next 4:37, Utah would hold the Rams scoreless and score 11 points, taking a 64-57 lead. Colorado State could come no closer than three points the rest of way. 

The Rams are now 14-7 overall, 3-3 in the league entering a game Monday night against MWC co-leader BYU, who is now 16-5, 5-1 following a win at Wyoming earlier Saturday.  Utah is now 17-4, 5-1.

The teams traded four leads before Marc Jackson’s three-point play with 6:18 to play in the game put Utah on top, 58-57.  Colorado State would never lead again.

Center Matt Nelson took game honors with 20 points and eight rebounds. Teammate Brian Greene added 15 points.  Utah had four double-figure scorers, led by forward Britton Johnsen’s 15 points.