2026 Border War: Colorado State vs. Wyoming – Schedule, TV Channel, Odds & Predictions
The 118th edition of the Border War (battle for the Bronze Boot) kicks off the 2026 college football season for both programs. This marks the earliest meeting in the series’ history and the first time since 1964 that the rivals open a season against each other. Colorado State begins its inaugural Pac-12 season under new head coach Jim Mora, while Wyoming remains in the Mountain West under third-year coach Jay Sawvel.
When is the Colorado State vs. Wyoming Border War?
Saturday, September 5, 2026.
Where is the Colorado State vs. Wyoming game?
Canvas Stadium in Fort Collins, Colorado.
Colorado State hosts the Cowboys. The game features a stadium-wide “Stripe Out” and Military Appreciation theme.
What time does Colorado State vs. Wyoming football start?
4:00 p.m. Mountain Time.
Here are the kickoff times across major U.S. time zones:
- Pacific Time (PT): 3:00 p.m.
- Mountain Time (MT): 4:00 p.m.
- Central Time (CT): 5:00 p.m.
- Eastern Time (ET): 6:00 p.m.
What channel is the Colorado State football vs. Wyoming game on?
USA Network.
The contest airs nationally on USA Network.
Where to stream Colorado State vs. Wyoming football?
Stream the game live via the USA Network app or website (with a qualifying TV provider login). Additional options include Fubo, YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, and other live-TV streaming services that carry USA Network.
Who are the TV broadcasters for Colorado State vs Wyoming?
Here's the crew for the game on USA Sports: Play-by-play: Nate Gatter Analyst: Ryan Leaf Sideline: Lauren Green
Border War 2026: Colorado State vs. Wyoming Odds
As of early September 2026, betting lines from major sportsbooks show:
- Spread: Colorado State –3 to –3.5 (Wyoming +3 to +3.5)
- Moneyline: Colorado State –152 to –160 | Wyoming +130 to +146
- Over/Under: 45.5 to 46.5 points
Colorado State is a modest home favorite in what is expected to be a physical, lower-scoring rivalry game.
Border War 2026: Colorado State vs. Wyoming Picks and Predictions
Most projections lean toward a close, hard-fought contest consistent with the rivalry’s history.
- Analysts often project a low-20s final score, with Colorado State edging a tight win in Jim Mora’s debut.
- Some lean Wyoming + the points, citing better continuity and recent success in the series (Wyoming has won four of the last five meetings, including a 28-0 shutout in 2025).
- Expected style: Run-oriented, physical play with an emphasis on time of possession and defense.
Consensus lean: Colorado State by a field goal or less; Wyoming +3/3.5 offers value for many.
Border War 2026: Colorado State vs. Wyoming Team News
Colorado State Rams
First-year head coach Jim Mora (previously successful at UConn) takes over a completely rebuilt roster via the transfer portal after a 2-10 season in 2025. The Rams open their Pac-12 era at home against their longtime rival. Mora has not named a definitive starting quarterback heading into the week, with competition ongoing.
Wyoming Cowboys
Third-year head coach Jay Sawvel enters the season looking to build on improved defensive play. The Cowboys open on the road in the Border War for the first time since 1964. William & Mary transfer Tyler Hughes has been named the starting quarterback.
Colorado State leads the all-time series. The Bronze Boot has been awarded to the winner since 1968. The rivalry continues as a non-conference series after Colorado State’s move to the Pac-12, with additional future games already scheduled.
Border War 2026: Key Players to Watch
Colorado State
- Quarterback competition — Hauss Hejny (Oklahoma State transfer), K’saan Farrar (UConn transfer), and returner Darius Curry are battling for the starting job. Mora has indicated the starter may not be named until game day.
- Running back Mel Brown and other portal additions providing depth in the backfield.
- Transfer receivers and tight ends such as Jordan Mosley, RJ Vick, and Juice Vereen.
- Linebacker Oumar Diomande and other defensive transfers expected to contribute immediately.
Wyoming
- QB Tyler Hughes — William & Mary graduate transfer named the starter. He threw for 2,330 yards and 20 touchdowns with only three interceptions while adding significant rushing production in 2025.
- Running backs including Samuel Harris and Markell Holman.
- Offensive line anchors such as Braylon Jenkins and portal additions.
- Defensive standouts on a unit that ranked among the better groups in the Mountain West last season.
Additional Storylines
- New eras collide: Jim Mora’s debut at Colorado State versus Jay Sawvel’s third season at Wyoming.
- Conference realignment: First non-conference Border War after Colorado State joined the Pac-12.
- Recent dominance: Wyoming has won four of the last five meetings.
- Home opener atmosphere: Canvas Stadium expected to be loud for the Stripe Out and Military Appreciation game.
- Quarterback questions: Uncertainty at the position for the Rams contrasts with Hughes’ clear role for the Cowboys.
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