The Colorado State Rams are strapping in for 2025 with more than just optimism; they’ve got momentum, swagger, and a head coach who’s finally hitting his stride.

After an 8–5 season in 2024, Jay Norvell’s squad isn’t just chasing bowl eligibility; they’re flirting with playoff relevance. Although the NCAAF Championship might still be a reach, the Rams aren’t just daydreaming. They’re scheming.

Three Games That Make or Break the Rams

Getting on the front foot means winning key battles. The Rams have developed some key rivalries in the past. However, these three games will likely define their season.

Away at Washington (Week 1)

Opening the season in Seattle is like diving into the deep end with ankle weights. Washington’s a Power Five powerhouse, and the Huskies don’t hand out warm welcomes.

However, if CSU shows up with gutsy play-calling and a little Norvell magic, they could shock the system. A win here? That’s bracket-busting, sportsbook-shaking stuff. Even a close loss proves they’re not just Mountain West fluff, they’re contenders.

Washington’s crowd will be roaring, the stakes sky-high, and the margin for error razor-thin. It promises a baptism by fire, but one that could forge CSU’s identity before the season even truly begins.

At Home vs UTSA (Late September)

Back in Fort Collins, the Rams face UTSA, a team that’s been quietly climbing the ranks.

This one’s all about balance: can CSU run the ball with authority and rattle the Roadrunners’ QB? If yes, they’ll earn more than just a win; they’ll gain respect. This is the kind of game that starts sustained streaks, and streaks build playoff buzz.

UTSA’s speed and unpredictability make them a dangerous guest. CSU must stay disciplined, especially in coverage and third-down defense. A win here isn’t just tactical, it’s psychological fuel for the season ahead.

At Home vs Fresno State (Mid-October)

Fresno’s the Mountain West gatekeeper. Beat them, and you’re not just knocking on the door, you’ve kicked it in.

CSU needs to control the clock, win the field position battle, and hold its nerve in the fourth. A win here could be the hinge that swings open bowl-game possibilities. Even a gritty loss keeps the playoff chatter alive.

Fresno State’s secondary will test CSU’s receivers with tight coverage and ball-hawking instincts. Expect a physical battle on the perimeter, where contested catches could swing momentum and energize the home crowd.

A win in these matches will throw the NCAAF Championship wide open.

Three Rams Who Could Make the Postseason

While the teams that are NCAAF favorites are stacked with talent, there are CSU players who are waiting in the wings, ready to make a statement of their own.

Brayden Fowler-Nicolosi, QB

Don’t let the “sophomore” tag fool you, Fowler-Nicolosi plays like he’s been reading defenses since kindergarten. His 462-yard, 4-TD explosion against Utah Tech in 2023 wasn’t a fluke; it was a preview. He’s got the arm, the poise, and the clutch gene. If CSU’s offense is a rocket, Brayden’s the ignition.

He’s also shown growth in pre-snap reads and decision-making, minimizing turnovers while maximizing yardage. His chemistry with receivers is electric, and his ability to extend plays outside the pocket adds a dangerous layer to CSU’s playbook.

When the Rams need a spark, Fowler-Nicolosi doesn’t just light the fuse; he brings the fireworks.

Justin Marshall, RB

Marshall’s the kind of back who turns third-and-long into third-and-gone. He’s got the vision, the burst, and the bruiser mentality. Whether he’s slicing through linebackers or catching defenders napping on screens, he’s CSU’s offensive stabilizer. When games get tough, Marshall gets tougher.

Marshall’s leadership extends beyond the stat sheet; he’s the emotional pulse of the offense. Teammates rally around his relentless drive, and his work ethic sets the tone in practice and crunch time.

Whether it’s a locker room speech or a fourth-quarter carry, Marshall delivers grit and belief when the Rams need it most.

Paul Tangelo, LB

Transferred from Saint Francis, Tangelo brings the heat. He’s the guy quarterbacks see in their nightmares, fast off the edge, disruptive in the pocket, and relentless on pursuit. In games where one sack can flip momentum, Tangelo’s the difference-maker.

Tangelo’s impact isn’t just felt in the stat sheet; it’s in the chaos he creates. Offensive lines scramble to contain him, often freeing up teammates to make plays. His motor never cools, and his leadership by example sets the tone for CSU’s defense. He’s the kind of player who changes game plans overnight.

Can the Rams Really Make the Playoffs?

Let’s not get carried away with championship parades just yet. But CSU’s path is paved with possibilities. If they go 2–1 in those key matchups and their stars shine, an 8-win season is well within reach. That could mean a division tie, a bowl berth, or even a sniff at the Mountain West crown.

November’s home stretch could be a goldmine, six straight games that could turn a solid season into a special one. Vegas has them pegged around 6.5 wins, which means every game counts. Playoff dreams? Still a bit lofty. But a bowl win and a conference title run? Absolutely doable.

Stacking Storylines

Colorado State isn’t just stacking wins; they’re stacking storylines. With Norvell’s leadership, Fowler-Nicolosi’s arm, Marshall’s legs, and Tangelo’s havoc, the Rams are building something real.

The schedule throws punches early, but if they roll with them, CSU could be the team nobody saw coming. For fans and bettors alike, the Rams aren’t just chasing glory; they’re writing the next great chapter in Fort Collins football.

*Content reflects information available as of 2025/08/26; subject to change.