The Colorado State Rams have built a strong reputation in NCAA athletics through decades of determination and success. From Colorado State Rams football triumphs to competitive Colorado State Rams basketball seasons, the program has showcased consistent excellence. Representing Fort Collins, the Rams continue to inspire fans with their dedication, spirit, and winning tradition across all sports.
College Sports Established
1893
Location
Fort Collins, Colorado
College Name
Colorado State University
Collegiate History
1973 - Present / NCAA Division 1
1921 - 1973 / University Division of the NCAA
1909 - 1921 / Athletic Association of the United States
Conference History
1999 - Present / Mountain West Conference
1968 – 1999 / Western Athletic Conference
1962 - 1968 / Independent
1938 – 1962 / Skyline Conference
1909 – 1937 / Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference
Nickname
Rams - The Colorado State Rams are one of the most beloved teams in NCAA sports, and their nickname has a unique origin story. The team was originally known as the Aggies when founded in 1893 by students at Colorado State University. The name change to "Rams" came about shortly after World War I, when several alumni suggested it to honor former student-athletes who had served during the war.
Colorado State Rams Origin
The idea behind this name change is that ram horns have long been associated with strength and bravery – qualities embodied by those who fought for our country during WWI. It's also believed that these alumni chose this particular animal because of its significance within CSU’s agricultural roots; rams were used on farms for centuries due to their hardiness and ability to protect livestock from predators.
Today, fans all over the world proudly wear green and gold apparel emblazoned with “CSU Rams” or simply “Rams” across it—a testament not only to an incredible athletic program but also a tribute honoring those brave servicemen from nearly 100 years ago whose sacrifice will never be forgotten!
NCAA Championships
Baseball 0
Men's Basketball 0
Women's Basketball 0
Football 0
Soccer 0
- 1890
- 1998
- 1999
- 2000
- 2011
- 2012
-
Rams first football team
In 1890: The first football team is formed at Colorado Agricultural College, playing as an independent. -
Motor Running – CSU Rams Joey Porter
While attending Colorado State University, Porter was a standout on the football field for the Colorado State Rams football team. He began his college career as an H-back and did not see his first action on the defensive line until his junior year. He was a third-team All-American and All-Western Athletic Conference first-team selection by The Sports Network. He registered ... -
Prolific Scorer – Rams Becky Hammon
Hammon’s prolific scoring for the Colorado State Rams made her an All-American three times, as well as Colorado Sportswoman of the Year. She led her team to a 33–3 record in the 1998–99 season and helped them advance to the NCAA Tournament’s Sweet Sixteen. She was named the WAC Mountain Division player of the year for the 1998–99 season and ... -
Rams Football Team win MWC Title
In 2000: The football team finishes with a 10-2 record and a No. 14 ranking in the AP poll, winning its second MWC title and defeating Louisville in the Liberty Bowl. Quarterback Matt Newton is named the MWC Offensive Player of the Year. -
Jim McElwain as head coach
In 2011: Rams football team hires Jim McElwain as head coach, who leads the Rams to a 22-16 record and two bowl appearances in three seasons before leaving for Florida. -
Rams reaches its second NCAA Tournament
2012: The basketball team reaches its second NCAA Tournament in three seasons, losing to Murray State in the second round. The Rams finish with a 20-12 record and a fourth-place finish in the MWC
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
Colorado State Rams History
The Colorado State Rams have built a rich tradition of excellence across NCAA athletics, known for their fierce rivalries—most notably with the Boise State Broncos. From the early dominance in Colorado State Rams basketball to the historic milestones in Colorado State Rams football, the program has long embodied determination, skill, and sportsmanship.
The Colorado State Rams basketball program first gained national recognition in the 1960s, appearing in multiple NCAA tournaments and establishing a winning culture that continues today. Under coach Tim Miles, the team reached new heights with three straight tournament appearances from 2012 to 2014, including a memorable Sweet 16 run in 2014 led by stars Jameer Nelson Jr., Daniel Bejarano, and Stanton Kidd. Coach Niko Medved later took the helm, steering the Rams toward renewed competitiveness and stability.
Rams Achievements
The Colorado State Rams football history stretches back to 1910, when the team first took the field as the “Aggies.” The program adopted the “Rams” name in 1932 to honor Fort Collins’ agricultural roots. Since then, the football team has achieved remarkable success, including multiple bowl victories. A highlight came in 2017 when quarterback Nick Stevens led the Rams to a 10–3 season and a thrilling Holiday Bowl win over Washington State, earning MVP honors.
In 2019, the Rams captured another milestone victory at the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl against Marshall, continuing a streak of strong performances. The Colorado State Rams remain a cornerstone of college athletics, with both the Colorado State Rams basketball and Colorado State Rams football programs showcasing the pride, power, and persistence that define this storied institution.
