The Colorado State Rams have officially hired Jim Mora as their new football head coach, succeeding Jay Norvell. National sports outlets have evaluated this coaching hire, providing varied grades that reflect their perspectives on Mora’s potential impact on the program.
ESPN awarded Colorado State an “A” grade, highlighting Mora’s turnaround at UConn. Bill Connelly noted, “After a couple of iffy seasons, he produced something brilliant: The Huskies won 18 games in 2024 and 2025 after winning just 19 in the previous seven seasons.”
The Athletic gave the hire a “B,” with Chris Vannini emphasizing Mora’s diverse coaching background. Vannini pointed out Mora’s experience as an NFL head coach and his success rebuilding UConn, stating that while Mora’s ceiling may not be the highest, he brings much-needed structure and vision to a struggling program.
USA TODAY assigned a “B” grade as well. Blake Toppmeyer remarked that Mora’s West Coast ties provide valuable recruiting advantages. “Mora offered Colorado State a high-floor option as a steady hand for a program that’s never found its way back since Jim McElwain left more than a decade ago,” Toppmeyer added.
Matt Hayes, also from USA TODAY, expressed surprise that Mora did not attract Power Five conference offers. He praised Mora’s resume and track record, writing, “CSU got a coach who has proven he can build and win.”
College Sports Wire’s Tyler Nettuno gave a “B+” grade, recognizing Mora’s success in revitalizing one of college football’s weakest programs. Nettuno expects Colorado State to compete immediately in the new Pac-12, describing the Rams as a “sleeping giant” ready to awaken under Mora’s leadership.
CBS Sports provided an “A” grade, with Brandon Marcello calling the hire “quite the splash.” Marcello lauded Mora’s ability to turn UConn into a consistent winner and expressed hope that he can replicate that success for the Rams.
Here is a summary of grades from national outlets:
1. ESPN: A
2. CBS Sports: A
3. College Sports Wire: B+
4. USA TODAY (Toppmeyer): B
5. USA TODAY (Hayes): B
6. The Athletic: B
Jim Mora’s hiring at Colorado State is seen as a calculated move to bring stability and long-term growth. Analysts agree he has the experience to revamp the program, especially as the Rams prepare to join the Pac-12.
Readers can follow further updates on Mora and Colorado State football through reliable sports news sources and official team announcements.
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