Updated October 3, 2026 at 9:35 p.m. MT
Tyson Summers is no longer the defensive coordinator at Colorado State.
CSU defensive coordinator Tyson Summers was on the sideline calling plays early in the Oct. 3 game against Oregon State.
But later in the first half, Summers was no longer on the sideline.
CSU coach Jim Mora said after the game (a 59–26 Oregon State win over the Rams) that he had removed Summers from play-calling duties. Mora later said that Summers left the sideline and then abandoned the program after the game.
“Tyson has been relieved of his playmaking duties. He has left the field and he is no longer a part of this football program,” Mora said.
Cornerbacks coach Trent Matthews wore a blue hoodie signaling plays to the defense, as Summers used to do. Kenny McClendon, who serves as co-defensive coordinator, associate head coach and defensive line coach, had a play sheet in hand while the defense was on the field.
“Kenny will be the main caller. He was put in a very difficult situation tonight and he responded well and the players responded well,” Mora said. “The very first play he called as a defensive coordinator in his entire life was a sack, forced a fumble. We’re going to get better. We’re going to get a lot better. He’s a good football coach.”
CSU has a bye week next week and then plays Oct. 15 at Texas State.
This story has been updated with updated quotes after the game, additional context and video.
Sports journalist Kevin Lytle can be found on social media on X, Instagram and Threads @Kevin_Lytle and on Bluesky
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