Colorado State University (CSU) has announced the suspension of redshirt freshman quarterback Darius Curry and senior offensive lineman Liam Wortmann for the upcoming season finale against the Air Force Falcons. The suspensions are a direct result of unsportsmanlike conduct during the game against Boise State University on November 25, 2023.
The incident, which involved Curry spitting on opposing players during the second half of the game, occurred after he threw an interception. This act was captured on video and quickly circulated on social media following the match, which ended in a 49-21 loss for CSU. Neither player received penalties during the game, prompting the university to impose disciplinary action.
Interim head coach Tyson Summers addressed the situation in a statement, expressing regret for the actions of his players. “After having a chance to review the film following the game, I want to apologize to the Boise State football players, coach Spencer Danielson, and everyone at Boise State University,” he stated.
In a similar vein, CSU Director of Athletics John Weber emphasized the university’s commitment to sportsmanship. “These actions are unacceptable. We are all regretful for what occurred last night, and on behalf of everyone at Colorado State, I want to apologize to the Boise State football student-athletes, director of athletics Jeramiah Dickey, coach Danielson, and the entire Boise State football program,” Weber said.
Curry’s suspension marks a significant moment in his young career. This match was his first start as quarterback for the Rams, stepping in after previous starter Jackson Brousseau sustained an injury. Brousseau had started seven consecutive games before being sidelined during the match against New Mexico on November 15. With Curry now out, the next quarterback in line to lead the team against Air Force will be Tahj Bullock, a transfer from Akron who has primarily served as a running option this season.
As the Rams prepare for their final game of the season at Canvas Stadium, they will look to regroup and refocus without their starting quarterback. The situation has raised questions about team discipline and the importance of maintaining respect on the field, particularly in light of the growing scrutiny surrounding sportsmanship in college athletics.
The upcoming contest against the Falcons now holds extra significance, not just for the players but for the CSU community as a whole. It remains to be seen how the team will respond and what impact this suspension will have on their performance.
