Fall Camp Begins in Laramie
The University of Wyoming’s football program kicked off its fall camp this week at War Memorial Stadium in Laramie, marking the first full‑speed workouts under third‑year head coach Jay Sawvel. The session, held under clear skies, set the tone for a season that opens on September 5 against Colorado State.
Sawvel, who took over the program in 2023, emphasized continuity and development during the camp, noting that the team is focused on building on the progress made in the previous year. The Cowboys will broadcast their season opener at 4 p.m. on the USA Network, a slot that promises to draw significant attention from the state’s fan base.
Among the players drawing early attention is running back Samuel ‘Tote’ Harris, who earned a spot on the Maxwell Award watch list for the first time in his career. Harris, a preseason All‑Mountain West selection by Phil Steele and Athlon Sports, posted a career‑high 126 rushing yards against Colorado last season, highlighted by a 50‑yard burst. In addition, he contributed 184 receiving yards on 16 catches during the 2025 campaign.
Key Players and Expectations
With Sawvel’s system entering its third year, the coaching staff believes the experience gained from the 2025 campaign will translate into stronger performances on both sides of the ball. The combination of Harris’s explosiveness and a revamped defensive front gives the Cowboys a balanced outlook as they aim to contend for a conference title.
The schedule released for the upcoming season features a blend of conference and non‑conference matchups, with home games slated against Northern Colorado on September 12, Hawai'i on September 26, and Northern Illinois on October 17. The Cowboys will also host UNLV on November 7 and renew their rivalry with UTEP on November 14, providing additional marquee moments for the fan base.
Beyond the early‑season contests, Wyoming’s slate includes trips to face Colorado State, Central Michigan, North Dakota State, and San Jose State, as well as a showdown with New Mexico State. The mix of opponents reflects a deliberate non‑conference strategy aimed at testing the team’s depth and preparing it for the rigors of Mountain West play.