In front of a packed Canvas Stadium in Fort Collins, Colorado, the Colorado State Rams emerged victorious in the 116th Border War, defeating the Wyoming Cowboys 24-10. With this win, the Rams not only claimed the coveted Bronze Boot but also bolstered their unbeaten record in the Mountain West Conference this season.
A Historic Rivalry Renewed
The Border War has been a storied rivalry since its inception, and Friday night’s clash was no exception. A sellout crowd of 36,720 fans witnessed the Rams snap a losing streak that had spanned three years. For head coach Jay Norvell, this marked his first victory over Wyoming in his tenure, a significant milestone in a rivalry where Colorado State had lost seven of the last eight encounters.
The Bronze Boot, introduced in 1967, had become a familiar sight in Laramie during recent years. However, this year’s triumph brought it back to Fort Collins, restoring a sense of pride for the Rams faithful.
Brayden Fowler-Nicolosi Shines Bright
Quarterback Brayden Fowler-Nicolosi was the standout performer for the Rams. He played a pivotal role in the victory, not only throwing a touchdown pass but also catching one. His versatility and composure under pressure provided the spark Colorado State needed to break through Wyoming’s defense.
It wasn’t just about individual brilliance, though. The Rams executed a disciplined game plan, balancing their aerial and ground attacks effectively. Their defense also held strong, limiting the Cowboys to just 10 points, a testament to their cohesive team effort.
The Mountain West Conference Picture
Friday’s win has significant implications for the Rams’ season. With a 5-0 record in the Mountain West Conference, Colorado State is firmly in contention for the conference championship. Each victory brings them closer to their goal, and the Border War win is a crucial step in solidifying their dominance this season.
The table below illustrates the Mountain West Conference standings as of now:
| 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 |
The Rams are in a commanding position, but the race is far from over. Upcoming games will test their mettle as they look to maintain their perfect conference record.
A Rivalry with a Changing Future
This year’s Border War wasn’t just about reclaiming the Bronze Boot; it also carried symbolic weight as the rivalry faces changes in the years ahead. Earlier this week, Colorado State announced its move to the Pac-12 Conference, raising questions about the future of its matchups with Wyoming.
In a joint statement, the schools confirmed the Border War will continue, albeit with some interruptions. The next meeting is scheduled for next year in Wyoming. After that, the rivalry will pause for two seasons, resuming annually from 2028 through 2035. These adjustments ensure the legacy of the Border War remains intact, even as Colorado State ventures into a new conference.
Looking Ahead
For now, the focus remains on the present. The Rams are celebrating their hard-fought victory, but their sights are set on bigger goals. With a potential conference championship within reach, they are poised to make this season one to remember.
Meanwhile, Wyoming will regroup and look to bounce back in their remaining games. The loss stings, but rivalries like the Border War always leave the door open for redemption in future encounters.
For fans on both sides, Friday night was a reminder of why this rivalry is so cherished—a blend of history, passion, and the unpredictable drama that only football can deliver.
