The Wyoming Cowboys college football program represents the University of Wyoming and has a rich history dating back to its inception in 1893. The team competes in the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) and is a member of the Mountain West Conference (MWC). The Cowboys are known for their rugged play style, reflecting the spirit of the American West.
The team's home games are played at War Memorial Stadium, located on the university's campus in Laramie, Wyoming. This stadium, which opened in 1950, sits at an elevation of 7,220 feet above sea level, making it the highest Division I FBS stadium in the country. With a seating capacity of around 29,181, War Memorial Stadium provides a formidable home-field advantage due to its altitude and often frigid weather conditions late in the season.
Throughout its history, the Wyoming Cowboys football program has enjoyed periods of success, including conference championships and bowl game appearances. The team's colors are brown and gold, and their mascot, Pistol Pete, symbolizes the Cowboy spirit and heritage of the region. The "WYO" hand sign is a well-known gesture among fans, showing their pride and support for the team.
One of the most notable figures in the program's history is head coach Paul Roach, who led the team to multiple successful seasons in the 1980s. More recently, the team had been under the guidance of head coach Craig Bohl, who worked to rebuild the program and bring it back to prominence within the Mountain West. The Cowboys have produced several NFL players, including quarterback Josh Allen, who has become a star in the league.
The Wyoming Cowboys have a fierce rivalry with the Colorado State Rams, known as the "Border War," with the winner receiving the Bronze Boot trophy. This rivalry game is one of the highlights of the season and embodies the competitive spirit of the team. Overall, the Wyoming Cowboys football program is a storied and cherished part of the university and the state of Wyoming, with a dedicated fan base and a legacy of perseverance and determination.