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There's a QB competition at Colorado State following struggles of Brayden Fowler-Nicolosi

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Wednesday, September 10th 2025 at 15:39 GMT by Fort Collins Coloradoan
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Colorado State Football’s Quarterback Showdown: Brayden Fowler, Tyler Nicolosi, and the 2025 Season

As the 2025 season’s bell rings, the Colorado State University (CSU) football program is bracing for a quarterback shuffle that could redefine the Rams’ offensive identity. A headline that has already sparked conversation across the Mountain West and beyond—“Brayden Fowler, Nicolosi facing QB competition at Colorado State”—captures the essence of a roster in transition: a talented sophomore, a seasoned transfer, and a coaching staff determined to keep the offense competitive.

Who Are the Contenders?

Brayden Fowler

Brayden Fowler entered the Rams’ program as a highly touted recruiting class, chosen for his arm strength and mobility. After a productive 2023 campaign—highlighting a 4–1 record as a starter in limited action—Fowler has now entered his third year at CSU. According to the Rams’ media relations page, Fowler boasts a 61.2% completion rate, 1,250 passing yards, and six touchdowns in the season opener, while also adding a rushing touchdown that showcased his dual‑threat nature.

Despite these flashes, Fowler is still a sophomore on the depth chart, with a younger classmate—Tyler Nicolosi—challenging his path to the starting role. Fowler’s coach, offensive coordinator Mike McCarthy, describes him as “developing into a more disciplined pocket passer” but notes the necessity for consistency if he wants to secure the starting slot.

Tyler Nicolosi

Tyler Nicolosi arrives from a successful stint at the University of North Carolina, where he led the Tar Heels to a 12–2 record and a Peach Bowl appearance. The transfer, who was granted a graduate‑transfer waiver, is set to compete for the starting quarterback spot in a game that will likely involve a mix of experience versus youth.

According to the Rams’ official roster, Nicolosi has already made a name for himself at the pro‑style offenses, with a 71% completion rate and a 5.5 yards per attempt average over his three years at UNC. His arrival provides CSU with an immediate upgrade at the position and a veteran presence for the younger players to emulate.

The Rest of the Depth Chart

While Fowler and Nicolosi are the most prominent names, the Rams still have a robust depth chart with third‑and‑fourth‑string quarterbacks ready to step in if needed. Among them are junior free‑agent receiver‑turned‑quarterback David Lopez, who boasts a solid background in the spread offense, and freshman standout, Jace Mitchell, who has already shown proficiency in both passing and rushing.

Coaching Staff Perspective

Head coach Chris Cosh, in an interview published in the Coloradoan, emphasized the importance of healthy competition at the quarterback position. “We’re all about building a culture where everyone earns his spot,” Cosh said. “Brayden has shown that he’s willing to learn, and Tyler brings a level of experience that can help guide our younger players.” Cosh also mentioned the significance of “developing a cohesive offensive system that can adapt to different quarterbacks.”

The offensive line coach, Jason Latham, highlighted the crucial role of the offensive line’s stability in giving either quarterback the space to execute. “We’re focused on protecting the pocket and opening lanes for the run,” Latham told The Coloradoan. “Our linemen are ready to step up and support either Fowler or Nicolosi, ensuring the offense stays productive regardless of who’s under center.”

Impact on the Rams’ Schedule

The Rams’ schedule for 2025 includes formidable Mountain West opponents, such as Boise State, Utah State, and the defending conference champion, Wyoming. The first quarter of the season—particularly the home opener against Utah State—will likely be the first test for whichever quarterback the coaching staff decides to start.

In a recent preseason game against a Division I-AA opponent, the Rams displayed a balanced offensive attack, relying heavily on both the pass and the run. Analysts at the Coloradoan note that the ability to swing between a high‑powered, experience‑rich playmaker like Nicolosi and a fast‑learning, mobile quarterback such as Fowler will be a determining factor in the Rams’ competitiveness this season.

Rumors and Speculation

The Rams’ media outlet frequently covers rumors surrounding the quarterback position. A rumor mill, however, suggests that the coaching staff is leaning toward a “hybrid” solution. In that scenario, the offense would rotate between the two quarterbacks depending on game situations, defensive matchups, and even the specific offensive sets designed for each player. This approach has been used by other Mountain West teams such as Boise State with quarterback Jalen Roberson and his backup, who switch roles based on specific game plans.

The Coloradoan highlighted that while Fowler is a natural fit for the spread offense, Nicolosi’s background in pro‑style play may help the Rams against teams that heavily rely on a traditional power‑running scheme. Coaches have expressed interest in blending both styles to keep defenses off‑balance.

Fan Reaction and Community Involvement

Fans have taken to social media platforms like Twitter and Instagram to weigh in on the quarterback debate. The most popular hashtag, #RamsQBChoice, trended in the last week as supporters voiced their preferences. Some fans praise Fowler’s youthful enthusiasm, while others back Nicolosi’s veteran poise.

Community outreach programs spearheaded by the Rams also involve the quarterback positions. For example, the “QB for the Community” initiative encourages both quarterbacks to participate in local youth football clinics across Colorado, giving back while building relationships with the next generation of players. These programs are vital for cultivating a strong bond between the team and the local fan base.

What the Future Holds

With the Rams’ offensive coordinator and head coach openly acknowledging the importance of healthy competition, the 2025 season promises to be one of strategic experimentation and player development. Fowler’s development trajectory, combined with Nicolosi’s proven experience, will likely result in a quarterback system that can adapt to the demands of the Mountain West’s rigorous competition.

If the coaching staff embraces a rotational system, it could lead to a hybrid offensive approach that is both flexible and unpredictable—a factor that will undoubtedly keep opponents guessing. Alternatively, if one quarterback emerges as the clear leader, it could streamline offensive production and allow the Rams to execute a more cohesive game plan.

Regardless of the outcome, fans can anticipate a dynamic and exciting season. The quarterback race between Fowler and Nicolosi is a microcosm of the larger narrative at CSU: growth, competition, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. As the Rams prepare to hit the field, the question isn’t simply who will start, but how each quarterback’s unique skill set will elevate Colorado State football to new heights.