In a thrilling showdown at a packed Canvas Stadium, the Colorado State Rams defeated the Wyoming Cowboys 24-10 in the 116th Border War. The victory on Friday night not only brought the coveted Bronze Boot back to Fort Collins but also kept the Rams’ perfect record in the Mountain West Conference intact. This win marks a significant turning point in a rivalry that has recently been dominated by the Cowboys.
A Historic Rivalry Renewed
The atmosphere was electric as 36,720 fans filled the stadium to witness a pivotal chapter in this long-standing rivalry. For the first time in three years, Colorado State emerged victorious, snapping a frustrating losing streak against their rivals. The win was particularly sweet for head coach Jay Norvell, as it was his first victory over Wyoming since taking the helm.
This triumph ends a period where Colorado State had lost seven of the last eight games in the series. The Bronze Boot, a trophy introduced in 1967, is finally back in the hands of the Rams, restoring a deep sense of pride for the team and its supporters.
Brayden Fowler-Nicolosi’s Standout Performance
Quarterback Brayden Fowler-Nicolosi was the undeniable star of the game for the Rams. His dual-threat capability was on full display as he showcased both his arm and his hands.
- He threw a crucial touchdown pass to keep the offense moving.
- In a highlight-reel play, he also caught a touchdown pass, demonstrating his remarkable versatility.
Fowler-Nicolosi’s poise and playmaking ability provided the offensive spark needed to overcome a tough Wyoming defense. However, the victory was a complete team effort. The Rams’ defense was equally impressive, holding the Cowboys to a mere 10 points throughout the game.
Shaking Up the Mountain West Conference
This win has major implications for the Mountain West Conference championship race. With a perfect 5-0 conference record, Colorado State is now in a commanding position. The victory solidifies their status as a top contender and puts pressure on their conference rivals. The current standings reflect the Rams’ dominant season so far.
| Team | Conference Record | Overall Record |
| Colorado State Rams | 5-0 | 8-2 |
| Air Force Falcons | 4-1 | 7-3 |
| Wyoming Cowboys | 3-2 | 6-4 |
While the Rams are leading the pack, they must maintain their focus in the upcoming games to secure their spot in the championship.
An Evolving Future for the Border War
Beyond the immediate celebration, this game was played under the shadow of future changes. Colorado State recently announced its upcoming move to the Pac-12 Conference, which raised questions about the continuation of the Border War.
Fortunately, both schools released a joint statement confirming the rivalry will live on. The schedule will be adjusted, with the next game taking place in Wyoming next year. After that, the rivalry will take a two-season pause before resuming annually from 2028 to 2035. This agreement ensures that one of college football’s cherished rivalries will continue for years to come.
Looking Ahead to What’s Next
The Rams are currently celebrating a hard-earned victory, but their focus will soon shift to the larger goal of winning a conference title. With an 8-2 overall record, they are well-positioned to make this a truly memorable season.
For the Wyoming Cowboys, the loss is a tough pill to swallow. They will need to regroup and finish their season strong. The beauty of a rivalry like the Border War is that there is always another chance for redemption down the road.
