Colorado State Weekly Press Conference - Sept 21 2026
- In Colorado State's 2026 UTSA-week presser, Jim Mora said his starting quarterback's hamstring issue made availability touch-and-go after he could not move, plant or throw effectively during a brief return against BYU. Mora hopes he can play but requires medical approval and the ability to protect himself; treatment progress is not game clearance.
- Mora said the Colorado State backup who took a shot to the eye needs completely clear vision before playing, rather than merely being functional. He also expressed confidence in Darius after effective play on very limited practice reps; he did not name a replacement starter or settle the week's quarterback order.
- Robbie Harrison could not play against BYU, forcing Colorado State to use two freshmen in substantial nose-tackle roles, Mora said. The coach did not identify a return date for Harrison or declare that the emergency arrangement would become the permanent defensive-line order.
- Mora said Colorado State is giving Cedric Ross and Jaylen King specific, limited packages rather than overwhelming the freshmen. Ross's package can expand as he gains experience and demonstrates what he can handle; this is conditional development, not a guaranteed increase in touches.
- With Colorado State ranked 134th against the run through three 2026 games, Mora said the staff is reassessing its scheme and making assignments more specific so defenders can play faster. Corrections include hand and eye placement, leverage, entry angles and bringing feet through tackles; no new base defense or replacement starters were announced.
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