Wyoming On The Map

With saturday's matchup it got me thinkin of who's come through the results of Wyoming in one way or another. Of course it also shows that the Cougars can't take this game for granted with the number of exceptional athletes that the Cowboys have showcased within their program . In the words of Jan Jorgensen "It is never hard to get up for Wyoming. We know that they consider this a rivalry game and we know that they are going to come out and they are going to give us everything they have. They always do".

Over the years there have been hundreds to come and go. There have been a number though who have made their mark. Likely at the top and most noticeable of that list would be Jay Novacek and five time pro bowler who played in the NFL from 1985 through 1996. Back in his cowboy college days he even won the WAC Decathlon Championship. One can't forget Patrick Chukwurah (3 year starter for the cowboys) who is 11th all time in tackles. As a senior he was given All MWC honors. Another individual who clearly made an impact was Casey Bramlett (Casper WY) who took his services to the next level (currently with the Baltimore Ravens). Bramlett was the only Wyoming player in school history to pass for 3000 yards in 3 different seasons. It would also be a grave mistake to not have included the dangerous deep threat Jovon Bouknight and current grad assistant. He ranked 20th with the NCAA All Time Career Receiving Yards. One wide receiver that could definately be added would be Ryan Yarbrough. Ryan was a two time college football all american and is currently 2nd all time in receiving yards (4,446 from 1990-93). At the top in terms of all time receiving yards in Cowboy history one can't leave out Marcus Harris (4,518 from 1993-96).

From the Cougar side of things there have been a few who have come through the program as well. Definately the Poppinga's (Evanston WY) shouldn't be left out. Back in 2004 Brady Poppinga was selected as one of 58 candidates across the nation for the Bronko Nagurski award who took his services to the Green Bay Packers. Kelly Poppinga in 2005 was a significant contributor on a defensive unit that gave up only 14.7 points a game (ranking 10th nationally) as well as ranking 4th in turnover margin. Current player Rick Wolfley (Afton WY) was a heavyweight state champion (undefeated as a junior) back in high school. He even sparred with olympian Rulan Gardner.

Collectively the Cowboys may not be the swiftest or quickest but they have always understood how to get up for the Cougars and bring their best. Whether its a rivalry game or not look for Wyoming to fight for every yard and individual play regardless of what circumstance or weather might be presented. Its just the cowboy way.