The Border War Colorado State vs Wyoming rivalry opens the 2026 season for both programs in historic fashion.
The 118th meeting takes place earlier than ever before and marks the first time since 1964 that the rivals open a season against each other. Colorado State hosts under new head coach Jim Mora as it begins life in the Pac-12. Wyoming travels under third-year coach Jay Sawvel looking to extend recent series success.
This Border War 2026 clash carries extra weight as a non-conference game following realignment. Here is everything fans need for Colorado State vs Wyoming 2026.
Colorado State vs Wyoming 2026 Game Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date | Saturday, September 5, 2026 |
| Kickoff | 4:00 p.m. MT |
| Time Zones | 3:00 p.m. PT / 5:00 p.m. CT / 6:00 p.m. ET |
| Venue | Canvas Stadium, Fort Collins, Colorado |
| TV | USA Network |
| Streaming | USA Network app, Fubo, YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling |
How to Watch Colorado State vs Wyoming
The game airs nationally on USA Network.
Stream options include the USA Network app or website with a TV-provider login, plus Fubo, YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV and Sling. Play-by-play will be handled by Nate Gatter with analyst Ryan Leaf and sideline reporter Lauren Green.
Colorado State vs Wyoming Odds
Current lines:
- Spread: Colorado State -3 to -3.5
- Moneyline: Colorado State -152 to -160 | Wyoming +130 to +146
- Total: 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 Prediction and Key Storylines
Most projections point to a close, hard-fought contest.
Colorado State begins a new era under Jim Mora with a completely rebuilt roster through the transfer portal after a 2-10 season. The quarterback competition remains open heading into the week. Wyoming returns more continuity and has won four of the last five meetings, including a 28-0 shutout in 2025.
William & Mary transfer Tyler Hughes has been named the Cowboys’ starting quarterback after a strong 2025 campaign. The Rams will rely on portal additions on both sides of the ball while looking to establish a new identity in Mora’s first game.
Canvas Stadium will feature a stadium-wide “Stripe Out” and Military Appreciation theme, creating a loud home environment for the earliest Border War in series history.
Prediction: Colorado State 24, Wyoming 20
Best lean: Colorado State to win
Spread lean: Wyoming +3 / +3.5
Key Players to Watch
Colorado State’s quarterback battle between Hauss Hejny, K’saan Farrar and Darius Curry will shape the offensive approach. Running back Mel Brown and transfer receivers provide skill-position depth. On defense, linebacker Oumar Diomande and other portal arrivals are expected to contribute immediately.
Wyoming counters with quarterback Tyler Hughes, a dual-threat option, plus a solid running-back group and an experienced offensive line. The Cowboys’ defense ranked among the stronger units in the Mountain West last season and will look to slow Colorado State’s new-look offense.
Rivalry Context and Future
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 future meetings already scheduled.
The Border War Colorado State vs Wyoming game delivers an early-season test for two programs heading in different directions. Mora’s debut, Wyoming’s recent series edge and a rare season-opening meeting combine to make this one of the more compelling non-conference rivalries on the Week 1 calendar.
FAQ
When is the Border War 2026?
Saturday, September 5, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. MT.
How to watch Colorado State vs Wyoming?
The game airs on USA Network and streams via the USA app, Fubo, YouTube TV and similar services.
What are the Colorado State vs Wyoming odds?
Colorado State is favored by 3 to 3.5 points. The total sits around 45.5–46.5.
What is the prediction for Border War 2026?
Colorado State is projected to win a close game, 24-20.
Where is the game being played?
Canvas Stadium in Fort Collins, Colorado.
