CSU Football Coordinator Removed After Heavy Loss

The Rams shake up their coaching staff following a decisive 56-26 defeat to Oregon State.

Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Football

CSU Football Coordinator Removed After Heavy Loss

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Colorado State University head coach Jim Mora removed defensive coordinator Tyson Summers from the program during Saturday's game. The move came after the team fell into an early 14-0 deficit against Oregon State, eventually losing 56-26.

Why it matters

The staff change signals a desperate attempt to reset the Rams' defense as the team struggles through a three-game losing streak. Coach Mora has elevated Kenny McClendon to manage defensive play-calling for the remainder of the season.

Durell Robinson recorded 117 rushing yards on 21 carries against Oregon State, bringing his season total to 266 yards and four touchdowns across five games. Mel Brown added 63 yards on two carries before exiting the game with an injury.

The players

Jim Mora

He is the head coach of the Colorado State University football team.

Durell Robinson

He is a running back for the Rams who previously competed at UConn.

Tyson Summers

He is the former defensive coordinator for the Colorado State football program.

Kenny McClendon

He is a coach for the Rams who assumed defensive play-calling duties.

Mel Brown

He is a player for Colorado State who recorded two touchdowns before leaving due to injury.

The details

Tyson Summers left the field mid-game and will no longer serve with the program. Meanwhile, Mel Brown was transported to a hospital at halftime as a precaution after sustaining an injury, adding to the team's ongoing personnel concerns.

Timeline

  1. Saturday, October 3, 2026: CSU lost 56-26 to Oregon State.

  2. October 15, 2026: The Rams are scheduled to play Texas State.

  3. October 24, 2026: CSU is set to host San Diego State.

Season Trajectory

This mid-season staff overhaul marks a major shift for the Rams as they attempt to break a three-game losing streak. The move fundamentally alters the defensive strategy as the team heads into a critical stretch of the schedule against Texas State and San Diego State.

The transition to Kenny McClendon as the primary defensive caller marks a permanent shift in the team's sideline hierarchy. With Mel Brown and Hauss Hejny both sidelined, the team is relying on the upcoming bye week to restore depth to its roster.

The takeaway

Staff changes made under pressure are intended to provide an immediate spark for a struggling unit. Fans should watch how the team utilizes the bye week to integrate new defensive strategies before their next match.

What happens next

The Rams have a scheduled game against Texas State on October 15, 2026, followed by a home game against San Diego State on October 24, 2026.

Further reading

For more updates on the team's performance, visit Football.

Source note: This article includes information reported by The Denver Post.

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