Jackson Brousseau Leads Colorado State as Starting Quarterback

In a remarkable turnaround, sophomore quarterback Jackson Brousseau has rapidly ascended from backup to full-time starter and captain for the Colorado State Rams. This shift comes in the wake of significant injuries sidelining over half of the team’s preseason-elected captains. Brousseau’s development has sparked optimism among coaches and teammates as they strive to regain momentum in their season.

During his initial three starts, Brousseau has consistently demonstrated growth, culminating in a standout performance last week. Under the guidance of CSU head coach Jay Norvell, Brousseau’s ability to learn and adapt has become a focal point for the Rams, who currently hold a 2-4 overall record and 1-1 in the Mountain West Conference.

Brousseau took over the starting role following a fourth-quarter appearance against UTSA on September 20, where he completed 10 of 12 passes for 78 yards and one touchdown. Just two days later, he was named the team’s starting quarterback. His first outing as a starter ended in a tough loss against Washington State, where the Rams managed only a field goal in a 20-3 defeat. However, Brousseau’s performance improved significantly the following week against San Diego State, where he passed for 155 yards and one touchdown in a 45-24 loss.

The breakthrough came last week when Brousseau threw for 144 yards and three touchdowns, leading the Rams to a 49-21 victory over Fresno State. This win marked a crucial turning point, ending a three-game losing streak and highlighting Brousseau’s potential as a key player moving forward.

Norvell attributes Brousseau’s success to his diligent preparation and understanding of the game. “He’s a very prepared player,” Norvell noted. “If you show him something, if he sees it in the game, he’s going to take advantage of it.” Brousseau himself acknowledges the importance of improvement, stating, “As well as I played, I will be the first one to tell you that I need to be better.”

The support from teammates, particularly running backs and tight end Rocky Beers, has also been instrumental in Brousseau’s development. In the recent game against Fresno State, two of his touchdown passes were directed to Beers, while the third found running back Javion Kinnard, who showcased his skills by catching a challenging pass before scoring. Brousseau emphasizes the team’s strategy, saying, “We’re trying to spread the ball around and exploit the defense.”

As the Rams prepare to face Hawaii for homecoming on Saturday at 17:00 at Canvas Stadium, they aim for their second consecutive victory. Hawaii enters the matchup with a 5-2 overall record and 2-1 in the Mountain West, having won their last two games, including a decisive 44-26 win over Utah State.

Norvell, who has a personal connection with Hawaii’s head coach Timmy Chang, praised Chang’s coaching abilities. “He really gets the most out of people,” he remarked. Offensively, Hawaii is led by quarterback Micah Alejado, who has thrown for 1,546 yards and nine touchdowns this season, while running back Landon Sims leads the ground game with 331 yards and two touchdowns.

The Rams have a historical edge in the rivalry, leading the all-time series 16-12. However, the last encounter in 2023 saw Hawaii thwart CSU’s hopes for a bowl-eligible season with a 27-24 victory in Honolulu.

Injury challenges continue to mount for the Rams, with linebacker JaQues Evans now out for the season due to a career-ending injury sustained earlier this season. Evans received the devastating news shortly before the last game but chose to support his teammates throughout the ordeal. “It’s pretty special to see somebody that selfless,” Norvell said.

Joining Evans on the injury list are other key players, including defensive back Jayden Cortell and wide receiver Stephon Daily. The team will also be missing defensive backs Ayden Hector, Dagan Myers, and Dylan Phelps for the upcoming game, as well as receiver Petey Tucker.

As the Rams look to build on their recent success, Brousseau’s leadership will be crucial in navigating the challenges ahead this season.