The Colorado State University (CSU) Rams have a rich and storied history that spans over a century. From their humble beginnings as an agricultural college to their current status as a prominent NCAA Division I program, the Rams have always been known for their school spirit and dedication to excellence. In this article, we will delve into the history of CSU Ram football, exploring the key moments, players, and coaches that have shaped the program into what it is today.
Early Years: 1893-1949
The first football game in CSU history was played in 1893, with the team competing against the University of Colorado. The early years of the program were marked by struggles, with the team experiencing more losses than wins. However, despite the challenges, the team persevered and began to build a loyal following among students, alumni, and fans. The introduction of the ram as the school’s mascot in 1946 marked a significant turning point for the program, as it helped to galvanize school spirit and create a sense of identity among fans. The ram mascot was chosen due to its association with strength, courage, and resilience, qualities that are still embodied by the team today.
The Sonny Lubick Era: 1993-2007
In 1993, Sonny Lubick took over as head coach of the CSU Rams, marking the beginning of a new era for the program. Under Lubick’s leadership, the team experienced a period of unprecedented success, including six bowl game appearances and a conference championship in 1999. Lubick’s coaching philosophy emphasized discipline, hard work, and teamwork, values that resonated with players and fans alike. The 1999 season was particularly notable, as the team finished with a 8-4 record and defeated the University of Nevada in the Las Vegas Bowl. The success of the team during this period helped to increase school spirit and attract new fans to the program.
| Season | Record | Bowl Game |
|---|---|---|
| 1993 | 5-6 | None |
| 1994 | 7-4 | None |
| 1999 | 8-4 | Las Vegas Bowl |
| 2000 | 7-5 | Liberty Bowl |
Modern Era: 2008-Present
In 2008, Steve Fairchild took over as head coach of the CSU Rams, marking the beginning of a new era for the program. Under Fairchild’s leadership, the team experienced a period of transition, with the coach working to rebuild the program and restore its reputation as a competitive force in the NCAA. In 2012, Jim McElwain was hired as head coach, and the team began to experience a resurgence in success, including a 10-3 record in 2014 and a bowl game victory over the University of Washington. The 2014 season was particularly notable, as the team finished with a 10-3 record and defeated the University of Washington in the Cactus Bowl.
Current State of the Program
Today, the CSU Rams are a prominent NCAA Division I program, competing in the Mountain West Conference. The team is led by head coach Jay Norvell, who was hired in 2021. Under Norvell’s leadership, the team is working to build on its recent success and establish itself as a consistent winner in the conference. The program’s commitment to school spirit and community engagement remains strong, with the team regularly participating in outreach events and activities to promote the university and its athletic programs.
- The CSU Rams have won six conference championships since 1993.
- The team has appeared in 10 bowl games since 1990.
- The program has produced several notable alumni, including NFL players such as Shaquil Barrett and Kapri Bibbs.
What is the history of the CSU Ram mascot?
+The CSU Ram mascot was introduced in 1946, and was chosen due to its association with strength, courage, and resilience. The ram has been a beloved symbol of the university and its athletic programs ever since, and is still featured prominently in school spirit activities and events.
Who is the current head coach of the CSU Rams?
+The current head coach of the CSU Rams is Jay Norvell, who was hired in 2021. Norvell has a strong background in coaching, and is working to build on the team's recent success and establish it as a consistent winner in the conference.
In conclusion, the CSU Ram history is a rich and storied one, marked by periods of struggle and success. From the early years of the program to the current era, the team has always been known for its school spirit and dedication to excellence. As the program continues to evolve and grow, it is likely that the CSU Rams will remain a prominent force in the NCAA, and a source of pride for students, alumni, and fans alike.
