Image Source: The Coloradoan
Wyoming vs Co State is set to launch a new era of Colorado State football when the Rams host their longtime rival on Saturday, Sept. 5, at Canvas Stadium in Fort Collins. The matchup is the earliest Border War in the rivalry’s history and arrives as CSU prepares for a season filled with sweeping changes.
Colorado State enters the game with a new head coach, a dramatically reshaped roster, a new conference and new uniforms. Jim Mora takes charge of the Rams, while 75 new players are part of the team’s 2026 roster. CSU is also beginning its first season in the Pac-12 and will take the field in uniforms supplied by Adidas.
Wyoming vs Co State brings a historic Border War kickoff
The Border War remains one of college football’s most recognizable regional rivalries. This year’s meeting carries additional significance because it marks the beginning of a different chapter for Colorado State under Mora.
The Rams and Cowboys will meet at 4 p.m. at Canvas Stadium. Fans are encouraged to arrive early, with a full schedule of tailgating, team activities and pregame entertainment planned throughout the day.
According to The Coloradoan’s game-day guide, parking lots open at 10 a.m., and tailgating begins at the same time. The CSU team store opens at 11 a.m., followed by the Ram Walk tailgate at noon. The team’s Ram Walk is scheduled for 1:30 p.m., giving supporters an opportunity to welcome the players before kickoff.
Power-packed game-day schedule for CSU fans
- 10 a.m.: Parking lots open and tailgating begins.
- 11 a.m.: The CSU team store opens.
- Noon: The Ram Walk tailgate begins.
- 1:30 p.m.: The CSU team Ram Walk takes place.
- 2:30 p.m.: Canvas Stadium gates open.
- 3:30 p.m.: Fans are encouraged to be seated for the pregame show.
- 4 p.m.: Wyoming vs Co State kickoff.
The pregame show will include a military flyover and a super-sized flag. Military vehicles are also expected to be displayed during the tailgate, adding to the event’s ceremonial atmosphere.
Essential Canvas Stadium entry and parking information
All tickets and parking passes for CSU events are digital. Fans should have their passes ready on their phones before arriving at the stadium. Digital tickets can be accessed, transferred to family or friends, and saved to a mobile device through a Colorado State ticket account.
Single-game tickets, multi-game passes and season tickets are available through Colorado State athletics. The stadium box office opens four hours before kickoff for fans who need assistance with ticket purchases.
Parking lots outside the overnight vehicle areas open six hours before kickoff. Overnight parking is available for some recreational vehicles and oversized vehicles, but advance registration is required. Those vehicles may begin parking at the Moby Arena lot at 5:30 p.m. on the day before the game.
Clear bag rules could affect stadium entry times
Canvas Stadium uses a clear bag policy, and every guest must pass through bag inspection and metal detection. Permitted bags include clear plastic, vinyl or PVC bags no larger than 12 inches wide, 6 inches deep and 12 inches high.
One-gallon storage bags, small clutch bags and soft, flexible seat cushions without metal are also allowed. Fans should review their belongings before leaving home because prohibited bags may cause delays at the gates.
Colorado State encourages supporters to enter the stadium early, particularly because the Wyoming vs Co State game is expected to draw strong interest from fans across the region. Arriving ahead of time will also give visitors a chance to enjoy the Ram Walk, tailgate activities and pregame presentation.
A defining test for Jim Mora and Colorado State
For Mora, the Border War provides an immediate spotlight as he begins his tenure at CSU. The combination of a new coaching staff, a roster featuring dozens of newcomers and a move into the Pac-12 makes the opening matchup especially important.
For supporters, the game represents more than a season opener. It is a chance to see how Colorado State’s new identity begins against a familiar opponent. The rivalry setting, early kickoff and major program changes give the Wyoming vs Co State matchup a historic feel before the first snap.
Frequently asked questions
When is the Wyoming vs Co State game?
Colorado State hosts Wyoming on Saturday, Sept. 5, with kickoff scheduled for 4 p.m. at Canvas Stadium in Fort Collins.
When do Canvas Stadium gates open?
Canvas Stadium gates open at 2:30 p.m. Fans are encouraged to arrive early because of bag inspections and metal detection.
What bags are allowed inside the stadium?
Clear plastic, vinyl or PVC bags no larger than 12 inches wide, 6 inches deep and 12 inches high are allowed. Small clutch bags and one-gallon storage bags are also permitted.
Who is Colorado State’s new head coach?
Jim Mora is the new head coach of Colorado State football for the 2026 season.
What makes this Border War historic?
The Sept. 5 meeting is the earliest Border War game ever played between Colorado State and Wyoming.
