Northern Colorado Bears College Football Pregame Quote, 09/03/2025

Immediately after the game, I was happy that our team could both celebrate a win and also recognize that we should play better. That’s been rare around here. But after watching the film, it was clear there were areas to clean up. We had chances to expand on a two-score lead and didn’t. Defensively we gave up too many timing routes and RPOs that extended drives. And on special teams, we made uncharacteristic technical mistakes that could have cost us points.

On turning the page to Colorado State:

We never want to get too hung up on replaying the previous game. CSU has created a great home atmosphere and been very successful there. They’re coming off a tough loss at Washington, but they played toe-to-toe with a really good team. They’ve got athletes across the field, a returning quarterback, and an offensive line that looks improved from a year ago.

On CSU’s personnel:

Running back Jalen Dupree looks explosive and strong, very businesslike in his approach. Tight end Jackson Warren creates matchup problems wherever he lines up. Defensively, CSU has completely changed their philosophy. They’re one of the most aggressive teams I’ve seen, with sacks, tackles for loss, and creative pressure packages.

On addressing coverage breakdowns from Week One:

Some of those contested catches we gave up, we actually weren’t lined up correctly. Our guys’ athleticism allowed them to close late, but credit to Chadron’s quarterback and receivers, they were Big Sky-level players. It was good for us to be tested early.

On losing starting quarterback Peter Costelli:

We didn’t have a ‘here we go again’ feeling this time. Everyone’s behind Eric [Gibson Jr.]. He nearly earned an alternate captain’s spot in voting and has the confidence of the team. Our offensive line is older and more experienced, our running back room is physical, and our receivers are veteran guys. The team around the quarterback is in a better place than last year.

On what must happen to beat CSU:

We’ve got to move their front, block their pressures, and establish the run. Defensively, we have to stop the run and put them in obvious passing situations. We’re not relying on them overlooking us, that’s not a strategy. We have to block, tackle, and dictate our share of the game.

On returning to CSU after last year’s trip:

That collective memory helps. Last year we had early substitution issues and were rattled by the environment. Now, our players and coaches have that experience. We know the stadium. We know what it takes to stay focused.