So you're trying to plan your fall around Rams football? Smart move. I remember scrambling last year when I missed the Border War because I got the date wrong – total nightmare. Let's make sure that doesn't happen to you. Whether you're a die-hard fan or new to the herd, this guide breaks down everything about the Colorado State Rams football schedule. No fluff, just straight talk about game days, ticket hacks, and those make-or-break matchups.
The Full 2024 Colorado State Rams Football Schedule
Mark these dates in your calendar right now. The official Colorado State Rams football schedule mixes challenging non-conference games with critical Mountain West battles. Here's the complete rundown:
| Date | Opponent | Location | Time (MT) | TV | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 31 | vs University of Colorado | Canvas Stadium | 5:00 PM | ESPN | Rocky Mountain Showdown - Rivalry Game |
| Sep 7 | vs Texas Tech | Canvas Stadium | 5:30 PM | CBSSN | Home Opener |
| Sep 14 | @ University of Texas | Darrell K Royal Stadium | 1:30 PM | FOX | First road test |
| Sep 21 | vs Eastern Michigan | Canvas Stadium | 5:00 PM | Mountain West Network | Non-conference finale |
| Sep 28 | @ Utah State | Maverik Stadium | 7:00 PM | FS1 | Conference opener |
| Oct 12 | vs Boise State | Canvas Stadium | 5:00 PM | CBSSN | White Out Game |
| Oct 19 | @ Air Force | Falcon Stadium | 7:30 PM | ESPN2 | Ram-Falcon Trophy |
| Oct 26 | vs Nevada | Canvas Stadium | 5:00 PM | Mountain West Network | Homecoming Weekend |
| Nov 2 | @ San Diego State | Snapdragon Stadium | 8:30 PM | FS1 | California road trip |
| Nov 16 | @ Wyoming | War Memorial Stadium | TBA | ESPNU | Border War (Rivalry) |
| Nov 23 | vs New Mexico | Canvas Stadium | 5:00 PM | Mountain West Network | Senior Day |
| Nov 30 | vs Hawaii | Canvas Stadium | 7:00 PM | SPEC | Season finale |
Important note: Times for the Colorado State Rams football schedule often shift due to TV needs. I learned this the hard way when they moved kickoff for the Wyoming game last minute. Sign up for schedule alerts unless you enjoy showing up 3 hours early.
Critical Games You Can't Miss This Season
Not all games are created equal. Here's where your season ticket investment pays off:
The Rocky Mountain Showdown (Aug 31 vs Colorado)
This rivalry game has gotten ugly lately - remember the 2018 brawl? Tickets vanish faster than free campus parking. Alumni swarm Fort Collins for tailgates starting at dawn. Pro tip: Book hotels 6 months early or you'll be staying in Loveland.
The Border War (Nov 16 @ Wyoming)
That bronze boot trophy means everything. The 287-mile trip to Laramie is brutal but unforgettable. Dress for blizzard conditions - last November it was 12°F at kickoff. Student buses usually sell out by October 1st.
Boise State Showdown (Oct 12)
Our best shot at a ranked upset. The blue turf bullies have owned this matchup but our new defensive coordinator might change that. Stadium staff told me they're planning something special for this White Out game.
How to Get Rams Tickets Without Getting Ripped Off
After twenty years buying Rams tickets, I've seen every scam in the book:
- Official Sources: Always start at CSUTickets.com. Single-game sales open July 15th. Pricing:
| Section | Season Price | Single Game Avg | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Student Section (15-17) | $125 | N/A | Current students (ID required) |
| West Sideline (200s) | $399 | $85 | Best views |
| End Zone (100s) | $299 | $55 | Loudest fans |
| East Sideline (300s) | $350 | $75 | Family seating |
- Secondary Markets: StubHub fees will make you cry. Try the Colorado State Rams Ticket Exchange Facebook group first - season holders sell extras at face value.
- Student Tickets: Freshmen - camp out online the minute sales open. They sold out in 19 minutes last year.
- Last-Minute Deals: Check the box office 2 hours before kickoff for returned tickets. Scored 50-yard line seats for $40 against UNLV this way.
Canvas Stadium Survival Guide
Built in 2017, this beauty has some quirks:
Parking Nightmares
The $30 stadium lots require permits sold out by August. Better options:
- South College Ave Shuttle: $5 roundtrip from Foothills Mall (runs every 15 mins)
- Residential Parking: Streets west of Overland Trail - arrive 3 hours early
- Bike Valet: Free at northwest gate (I use this every game)
Concession Hacks
Skip the 4th quarter hot dog line with these insider tips:
- Must-Try: Bison Bratwurst at Section 120 ($12 but worth it)
- Secret Shortcut: Portable beer carts behind Section 208 have shorter lines
- Kid-Friendly: Helmet sundaes at Section 105 ice cream stand
Watching From Home? Here's Your Options
Can't make it to Fort Collins? Here's how to catch every snap:
| Service | Cost | Games Covered | Free Trial |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mountain West Network | Free | Non-televised home games | N/A |
| ESPN+ | $10.99/month | Most away games | 7 days |
| FuboTV | $74.99/month | All CBSSN/FS1 games | 14 days |
| DirecTV Stream | $79.99/month | Includes ESPNU | 5 days |
The radio call remains my favorite - Brian Roth's voice IS Rams football. Tune into KARS 102.9 FM or the Varsity Network app.
2024 Season Outlook: Reasons for Hope?
Honest talk: Last season's 3-9 record hurt. But new OC Matt Mumme's air raid offense could be fun. Keep an eye on:
- Brayden Fowler-Nicolosi (QB): Threw for 22 TDs as freshman - needs to cut INTs
- Tory Horton (WR): NFL prospect had 1,131 yards last year
- Mohamed Kamara (DE): 13 sacks in 2023 - our defensive game-changer
The brutal non-conference schedule (Texas, Colorado) might bury us early. But if we steal one, momentum could carry through Mountain West play. Personally think 6 wins is possible if the offensive line gels.
Gameday Tip From a Local
Pre-game at The Mayor of Old Town - their craft beer selection destroys stadium prices. Post-game avoid I-25 south for at least 90 minutes unless you enjoy parking lots. Try the back roads through Laporte instead.
Your Colorado State Rams Football Schedule Questions Answered
When do single-game tickets go on sale?
Usually mid-July. Sign up for ticket office emails - they gave 48-hour presale access to subscribers last year. Avoid third-party sites until August when prices drop.
How many night games are on the Colorado State Rams football schedule?
Typically 3-4 per season. The Hawaii finale (Nov 30) is locked for evening. Others get announced 12 days before based on TV.
Can I bring my kids to Canvas Stadium?
Absolutely! Kids under 3 get in free. Sunday day games have family zones with face painting and player meet-and-greets. Avoid the student section after halftime though - gets rowdy.
What's the best way to track schedule changes?
Bookmark the official schedule page and follow @CSUFootball on X. TV networks can move kickoffs with just 12 days notice.
Are there any bye weeks this season?
Yes - October 5th and November 9th. Perfect for those fall mountain hikes before rivalry games heat up.
How early should I arrive for games?
Gates open 2 hours before kickoff. Arrive at least 90 minutes early for premium games (Colorado, Boise State). Security lines back up quick - saw people miss kickoff last year.
What's the policy on bags?
Clear bags only (12"x12"x6" max). Medical exceptions require advance approval. Saw dozens turned away last season - don't be that person.
Will the Rams make a bowl game this year?
Honestly? Tough road. Need 6 wins with that schedule. Air Force and Wyoming away games will decide it. I'd say 40% chance based on spring practice reports.
Final Thoughts for Rams Fans
Living in Fort Collins since '09 taught me one thing - Rams football breaks your heart but you keep coming back. Circle that Wyoming game especially. Nothing beats singing the fight song in Laramie after snatching the boot. However they finish, it's about community. The tailgates in Hughes lot, the cold fourth quarters, that roar when the team runs onto Sonny Lubick Field. This Colorado State Rams football schedule is your roadmap to memories. See you at Canvas Stadium.
Pro tip: If you buy nothing else, get the stadium seat cushions. Those metal bleachers turn into ice blocks by November.
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