October 20th 2024.
The world of college football has always been fueled by intense rivalries, adding an extra layer of excitement and passion to the game. But as the landscape of conferences continues to shift, these rivalries are facing uncertain futures.
One such rivalry that may be coming to an end is the long-standing showdown between Colorado State and Air Force. The two teams faced off for the 62nd time on Saturday night, with the Rams having not won at Falcon Stadium since 2022. This could very well be their last game at the Academy for quite some time, as CSU will be leaving the Mountain West Conference for the Pac-12 in 2026. However, CSU athletic director John Weber believes it is presumptuous to predict the demise of this rivalry, as there is still much to be worked out and the Rams also have a historical rivalry with Wyoming.
The rivalry between CSU and Wyoming dates back to 1899 and has been played every season since 1946. Only 12 times in the last 125 years have these two teams not faced each other in football. Air Force athletic director Nathan Pine acknowledges that their rivalry with CSU may be coming to an end, but also points out that the situation across college football is constantly evolving and things can change quickly.
The uncertain future of these rivalries is due to the ongoing conference realignment, which has already caused the end of rivalries like Colorado-Nebraska. With CSU joining the Pac-12 along with Boise State, Fresno State, San Diego State, and Utah State, and Air Force playing Army and Navy annually, there may not be much room for non-conference games. However, both Weber and Pine are open to the possibility of scheduling games against each other or against in-state rival CU, as long as it makes sense for both schools.
But the scheduling situation for CSU is already filling up fast, with non-conference opponents booked through 2027. And Air Force's future schedule is even tighter. Weber understands the importance of keeping traditions and rivalries alive in college football, but the current state of things may make it difficult.
This dilemma is not unique to Colorado's in-state rivalries, as other longstanding rivalries like Texas-Texas A&M and Oklahoma-Oklahoma State are also facing uncertain futures due to conference realignment and hard feelings. Unfortunately, it seems that this is the reality of college athletics and it is unlikely to change anytime soon. But for fans and players alike, these rivalries will always hold a special place in their hearts and memories, making them a crucial part of the college football experience.
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