FORT COLLINS — Nico Ranieri, who ran the third-team offense at times during preseason camp, became Colorado State’s official backup quarterback Tuesday.
The redshirt freshman had battled junior Klay Kubiak for the second-string job behind true freshman Pete Thomas. However, Kubiak’s career injury jinx continued with a groin strain last Saturday, and he was held out of practice.
During the first practice since the start of the school year, the staff broke out the practice squads for the first time. At this point, coach Steve Fairchild said five to seven true freshmen could get playing time this fall.
Besides Thomas, running back Tony Drake, defensive ends Crockett Gilmore and Nordly Capi, defensive backs Shaq Bell and Najee James and linebacker Mike Orakpo are freshmen who have received extended work with the Rams’ first two units. Wide receiver Thomas Coffman also was pressing for consideration before requiring knee surgery.
Footnotes.
CSU’s roster grew to 115 players with the start of school, including true freshman walk-ons. Included in that group is former Fairview quarterback Ben Schumacher, who could get scout-team work. . . . The Rams will practice with crowd- noise conditions today in their indoor facility. Practices at Hughes Stadium on Thursday and Saturday will be closed to the public.
Natalie Meisler, The Denver Post
