Even though the game happens once a year the excitement and anticipation rivals that of a major holiday for the fans and players of University of Wyoming and Colorado State.
While those who are outside of the rivalry do not understand the pride that comes with having possession of the Bronze Boot, it only takes one game to find out how much it means to the team.
“It was after my first year, I under estimated the importance of the game,” said Wyoming Head Coach Craig Bohl on how long it took him to realize the importance of the Border War. “Since that time I have personally embraced the rivalry”
Bohl also realized the importance of the game after he watched CSU run across the field to grab the trophy, taking it from UW. Bohl also remembers two years ago when he was able to get his first victory over CSU and Wyoming has able to take the trophy back after a game held on CSU’s home turf.
While the first few years did not go as planned, Wyoming has won the boot that past two years. Two years ago, in the last Border War to be played as the Rams long time home Hughes Stadium, Wyoming was able to overcome an early 3-14 deficit and win the game 38-17. The momentum of the game would flip as Wyoming would score 21 points in the second quarter highlighted by defensive linemen Chase Appleby taking an interception 55 yards for a touchdown. Wyoming would enter the half with a 24-17 lead and would come out in the third quarter scoring two more touchdowns sealing the game away and retaking possession of the Bronze Boot.
Last years game is one for the ages as Wyoming would trail the whole game but would mount a comeback effort led by quarterback Josh Allen and would be capped off by a touchdown by running back Kellen Overstreet in the final minutes of the game giving Wyoming a 16-13 victory. Kicker Cooper Rothe would also play a huge role for Wyoming by making three field goals in heavy rain and snow.
“When it comes to a game like this you throw records out.” said Bohl. “You tee it up, go out there and see who the better ball club is.”
This year is shaping up to be another great game between the two teams. Both Wyoming and CSU have had their struggles this year. Wyoming, 2-6 overall 0-4 in conference, is in the midst of a four game losing skip while CSU, 2-5 overall 2-2 in the conference, was able to pick up some wins after going 0-4 to start the year.
With both teams staring at the possibility of missing out on a bowl game this might be their only opportunity to end the year with some hardware in the trophy case. Wyoming has missed out on their opportunity to keep their traveling trophies that they had with Hawaii and Utah State earlier this year.
The Bronze Boot is the only trophy the Cowboys have in their possession and they will have to fight to keep it and the states pride when they face CSU at 8 p.m. in Canvas Stadium in Fort Collins, Colorado on Friday Oct. 26. The game will also be aired on CBS Sports Network.
