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New Post has been published on https://sports-teller.com/leading-candidate-replace-jay-norvell-csu/

Leading Candidate to Replace Jay Norvell at Colorado St

Colorado State hit the road and delivered a commanding performance, sweeping New Mexico 25-23, 25-16, 25-20 to claim a key conference win. The Rams’ dominance in Albuquerque improved their Mountain West record and reaffirmed their credibility as a threat in the league.

Tight Opening, Then Momentum Takes Over

The first set was a test of nerves. Neither team was able to pull away, and the lead changed hands multiple times. New Mexico battled hard, and at 23-23 it looked like they might steal it. But Colorado State answered at the right moment, executing a clutch end run to close it 25-23. Their hitting percentage in that frame (.364) edged out the Lobos’ (.312), showing a slight but decisive edge.

Once set one was in the books, the Rams found rhythm. In set two, they hammered away with a .353 hitting percentage, added three aces, and used a 7-0 run sparked by Halle Jameson to break open the set. Jameson notched two aces during that stretch, and Maria Brun delivered the final ace on set point.

The third set saw New Mexico make a run—leading 17-13—but Colorado State answered with a 6-0 spurt keyed by Brenna Rowland and Eve Wilson combining for kills and combo blocks. That swing was enough to tilt control, and the Rams closed the set 25-20.

Rams’ Weaponry: Who Shone & What Worked

Colorado State’s balance stood out. Here are what stood out most:

Halle Jameson led with 11 kills, her highest total in a three-set match this season.

The team tallied 43 kills and 42 digs, matching their season highs in direct sets.

They accumulated eight aces, tying for their second-most in a match.

Aine Doty amassed 14 digs, the highest for a Ram in a three-set showing this year.

Setter Eric Debiec posted a double-double: 33 assists and 12 digs.

Wilson and Rowland were forces at the net in the third set—between them they mixed kills and blocks to swing momentum.

Their combination of attack efficiency, serving pressure, and defensive resilience carried them through.

Implications in Mountain West Context

This isn’t just another regular win. It’s a statement win. Colorado State improves its conference record to 2–1, showing they can win on the road against league opponents. That kind of result helps in tie-breakers, morale, and setting tone for tougher home matches ahead.

For New Mexico, the loss deepens their early hole: now 0–3 in conference play. They showed fight early, especially in set one, but couldn’t sustain. Their vulnerabilities— when pressured—were exposed.

The sweep also gives CSU continuity. They are now winning multiple sets in a row (six straight sets) in recent play, building momentum.

What to Keep Eye On Going Forward

Can Colorado State maintain this balance—offense, defense, serve—against stronger conference foes?

Will New Mexico adjust, especially in tight sets and under pressure?

As CSUs’ frontcourt starts to gel, how will Wilson and Rowland’s synergy develop in middle sets?

How deep will CSU’s bench contribute? Sustained energy in long conference runs often depends on role players stepping up.

Home court: the next few matches at home will test whether this road sweep was a spark or a turning point.

Colorado State’s sweep in Albuquerque was more than just a win—it was a showcase of poise, depth, and execution. The Rams left no doubt: in conference play, they intend to contend, and they packed their road trip with proof.