What Is 2014 Colorado State Rams football

Overview

The 2014 Colorado State Rams football team represented Colorado State University in the 2014 NCAA Division I FBS football season, competing as a member of the Mountain Division of the Mountain West Conference. Led by head coach Jim McElwain, the team achieved one of the most successful seasons in program history, finishing with a 10–3 overall record and a 6–2 mark in conference play.

Despite high expectations and a strong start, the Rams narrowly missed winning their division but earned a spot in the New Mexico Bowl. Their season culminated in a thrilling bowl victory that showcased the team's offensive firepower and resilience under pressure.

• Record and Standing: The Rams finished the regular season 10–2, with their only losses coming against top-ranked teams like Boise State and Colorado.
• Head Coach:Jim McElwain led the team in his third and final season before accepting the head coaching position at the University of Florida.
• Offensive Leader: Quarterback Garrett Grayson threw for 3,696 yards and 32 touchdowns, ranking among the nation's top passers.
• Bowl Game: Colorado State defeated Washington State 48–45 in the 2014 New Mexico Bowl on December 20, 2014, in Albuquerque.
• Defensive Standout: Linebacker Max Morgan recorded 102 total tackles and led the team in defensive stops during the season.

Season Performance and Key Games

The 2014 campaign featured several pivotal games that defined the Rams' trajectory, from early-season dominance to late-season drama. Their schedule included both high-scoring affairs and tightly contested matchups, highlighting their offensive strength and defensive inconsistencies.

• Season Opener: Colorado State opened with a 31–20 win over Colorado, setting the tone with a balanced offensive attack.
• Boise State Rivalry: A 35–27 loss to Boise State on November 8 proved costly, eliminating the Rams from Mountain Division contention.
• Garrett Grayson's Peak Game: Against UNLV, Grayson threw for 415 yards and 5 touchdowns in a 63–35 victory.
• Defensive Struggles: The Rams allowed 30 or more points in 7 games, raising concerns about consistency on defense.
• Win Streak: They won 7 consecutive games from September to November, peaking at No. 22 in the AP Poll.
• Bowl Breakdown: In the New Mexico Bowl, the Rams overcame a 31–14 deficit with 21 unanswered points in the fourth quarter.

Comparison at a Glance

Comparing the 2014 season to recent years highlights its significance in program history.

The 2014 season marked a clear upward trend for Colorado State football, surpassing previous records under McElwain. It was the first time since 1948 that the Rams won 10 or more games in a season, and their New Mexico Bowl victory provided redemption after a heartbreaking loss in the same game the prior year. The team’s offensive production, led by Grayson and wide receiver Jordan Taylor (who had 76 receptions for 1,294 yards), ranked among the best in the Mountain West.

Why It Matters

The 2014 season was a turning point for Colorado State football, establishing credibility on a national level and setting a new standard for future teams. It demonstrated that sustained success was possible in a competitive conference, even without traditional powerhouse resources.

• Program Momentum: The 10-win season boosted recruiting and fan engagement, leading to increased attendance and media exposure.
• Coach Departure: Jim McElwain’s exit to Florida highlighted the program’s ability to develop top-tier coaching talent.
• Offensive Legacy: The 2014 Rams set a school record with 4,953 total passing yards for the season.
• Bowl Redemption: Winning the New Mexico Bowl avenged their 2013 loss in the same game, closing the McElwain era on a high note.
• Player Development: Several players, including Max Morgan and center Jake Bennett, received All-Mountain West honors.
• Historical Context: It was the first 10-win season for the Rams since 1948, marking a historic milestone.

The 2014 Colorado State Rams left a lasting legacy, proving that consistent improvement and bold offensive strategies could yield significant results. Their season remains a benchmark for excellence in Fort Collins.