Colorado State Makes Dramatic Mid-Game Coordinator Change During Blowout Loss
Colorado State head coach Jim Mora Jr. removed defensive coordinator Tyson Summers from his play-calling duties during the first half of a 56-26 loss to Oregon State, with Summers subsequently leaving the field and the program permanently. Kenny McClendon, the co-defensive coordinator, took over play-calling responsibilities and will serve as the new defensive coordinator moving forward. The change reflects the Rams' ongoing defensive struggles, entering the game ranked 129th nationally in scoring defense.
Colorado State's defensive struggles this season have been severe, with the unit allowing 34.3 points per game entering the Oregon State matchup—ranking 129th nationally. The Beavers' offensive explosion, which included 14 points in the first quarter and 21 in the second, made the defensive coordinator's position untenable midway through the first half. McClendon's promotion from co-coordinator came with immediate responsibility, though Mora noted the new play-caller's first call resulted in a sack-fumble.
Jim Mora Jr., in his inaugural season at Colorado State after departing UConn, made the unusual decision to swap coordinators mid-contest rather than wait for the season to progress further. This dramatic move signals the severity of the defensive performance issues and Mora's willingness to make decisive personnel changes early in his tenure with the program.
This mid-game coordinator change could signal to Colorado State players and fans that leadership recognizes urgent problems and will act decisively. For recruiting purposes, such instability may concern prospective athletes evaluating the program's direction. Conversely, the change might energize a struggling defense by providing new leadership. The decision reflects broader coaching pressures in college football, where early-season performance often determines job security and program trajectory during a critical developmental period.