Head Coach: Jay Norvell, 2nd year: 3-9, 7th year overall, 36-35
Colorado State Rams Preview 2023
The Colorado State Rams enter the 2023 season with a lot of hope and optimism. After a disappointing 3-9 season in 2022, the Rams are looking to get back to winning ways under second-year head coach Jay Norvell.
The Rams have a number of key players returning in 2023, including quarterback Clay Millen, wide receiver Tory Horton, and running back Marcus Williams. Millen threw for 2,432 yards and 11 touchdowns in 2022, while Horton caught 75 passes for 912 yards and five touchdowns. Williams rushed for 728 yards and four touchdowns.
The Rams also have a strong defense returning in 2023, led by edge rusher Mohamed Kamara. Kamara had 8.5 sacks and 16 tackles for loss in 2022. The Rams also have a number of talented defensive backs, including Chase Wilson, Drew Kulick, and Tyrique Stevenson.
The Rams have a tough schedule in 2023, but they have the talent to compete with anyone. If the offense can take a step forward and the defense can stay healthy, the Rams could be a bowl team in 2023.
Key Players
- Clay Millen, QB: Millen is a dual-threat quarterback who has the potential to be a star in the Mountain West. He threw for 2,432 yards and 11 touchdowns in 2022, and he also rushed for 443 yards and three touchdowns.
- Tory Horton, WR: Horton is a big-play receiver who can stretch the field. He caught 75 passes for 912 yards and five touchdowns in 2022.
- Marcus Williams, RB: Williams is a powerful running back who can run between the tackles and catch passes out of the backfield. He rushed for 728 yards and four touchdowns in 2022.
- Mohamed Kamara, DE: Kamara is a pass-rushing specialist who can disrupt the opposing offense. He had 8.5 sacks and 16 tackles for loss in 2022.
- Chase Wilson, S: Wilson is a ball-hawking safety who can make big plays in the secondary. He had four interceptions and 69 tackles in 2022.
- Drew Kulick, S: Kulick is a versatile safety who can play in the box or in coverage. He had 65 tackles and two interceptions in 2022.
- Tyrique Stevenson, CB: Stevenson is a lockdown corner who can shut down opposing receivers. He had three interceptions and 14 pass breakups in 2022.
Team Statistics
- Total Offense: 372.9 yards per game (108th in FBS)
- Passing Offense: 225.4 yards per game (122nd in FBS)
- Rushing Offense: 147.5 yards per game (89th in FBS)
- Total Defense: 398.7 yards per game (102nd in FBS)
- Pass Defense: 240.5 yards per game (82nd in FBS)
- Rushing Defense: 158.2 yards per game (122nd in FBS)
Prediction
The Rams have the talent to be a bowl team in 2023, but they will need to improve their offense and stay healthy in order to reach their goals. I predict that the Rams will win 6-7 games in 2023.