Jim Mora's Coaching Legacy

Jim Mora's career spans elite levels of football. He served as head coach for the Atlanta Falcons (2004-2006) and Seattle Seahawks (2009), accumulating NFL experience before transitioning to college. At UCLA from 2012-2017, he posted a 46-30 record, establishing a strong foundation.

After a brief hiatus as a television analyst, Mora revived UConn starting in 2022. He transformed the Huskies from struggling (6-7 and 3-9 in his first two years) to 18-7 over the last two seasons, including a 9-4 mark in 2024 with a Fenway Bowl win and a 9-3 start in 2025 before departing. Attendance at UConn games surged from 12,000 to over 30,000 under his leadership.

Mora's total wins exceed 105 across professional and collegiate ranks, earning him accolades like The Gridiron Club of Greater Boston Head Coach of the Year in 2024.

Introduction at Colorado State

On December 1, 2025, Mora was formally introduced at Canvas Stadium's Stadium Club Room in Fort Collins. CSU Athletic Director John Weber praised Mora's passion and experience, noting intense interest from other coaches during the search. Mora arrived with his family, greeted by Weber, and expressed humility and excitement about joining the community.

"This will be the last step," Mora declared, committing long-term to CSU. He renewed interest in the program from 2019 when it first caught his attention, especially after Norvell's exit. CSU will cover his $1.5 million buyout from UConn, with bonuses tied to wins, bowls, and academic performance.

Bold Promises and Future Outlook

Mora set audacious goals: winning a Pac-12 championship, competing for a national title, and personally climbing all 54 of Colorado's 14,000-foot peaks. "Our goals will be set at a very high level," he said, emphasizing actions over words. Local voices like radio announcer Brian Roth endorse the hire for Mora's proven rebuilding skills.

The Rams' debut under Mora is September 5, 2026, hosting Wyoming in the Border War. With modern facilities and Pac-12 momentum, experts see potential for rapid turnaround from the 2025 slump. Mora plans to meet recruits on signing day, building on initial talks.

CSU fans anticipate a new era, leveraging Mora's NFL pedigree and college resurgence to foster winning culture and fan engagement.