UPDATE: The Colorado State Rams have fired head football coach Jay Norvell following a disappointing 31-19 loss to Hawaii, leaving the team with a troubling 2-5 record for the season. This urgent decision was announced by John Weber, the university’s director of athletics, during a press conference on October 29, 2023.
The firing comes as CSU struggles in the Mountain West Conference, with Norvell ending his tenure in Fort Collins with a 18-26 record over three and a half years. “Today is about moving forward,” Weber stated, emphasizing the need for a fresh direction as the Rams prepare to enter the Pac-12.
In immediate response to the coaching change, defensive coordinator Tyson Summers has been appointed as interim head coach, effective immediately. Summers, who joined CSU’s staff in December 2022, is expected to lead the team through the remainder of the season, starting with the critical Border War game against Wyoming on November 4, 2023. After that, the Rams will have a bye week before facing UNLV on November 8, 2023.
Weber expressed that the decision was necessary, stating, “Ultimately, progress was challenged and progress stalled at a very critical time for us.” He noted the importance of having a leader who can help the team regain its identity and momentum.
Summers, who has previous head coaching experience at Georgia Southern and served as defensive coordinator under Mike Bobo, is determined to make an impact. “I’m going to attack it like I attack everything,” he declared. He will maintain his role as defensive play caller while handing over offensive duties to tight ends coach Grant Chestnut.
The Rams have five games left this season, and Summers believes there is still an opportunity for success. “We’ve got an opportunity to really do something special,” he asserted.
As CSU embarks on this new chapter, Weber confirmed that a national search for a permanent head coach will commence immediately, with plans to partner with a premier search firm. The urgency of the moment is palpable as fans and players alike look for a turnaround in the remaining games.
Stay tuned for further updates as the CSU Rams navigate this pivotal transition. The future of the program hangs in the balance as they approach their next game, and the search for a new leader begins.
