The 1985 Nicholls State Colonels football team represented Nicholls State University as a member of the Gulf Star Conference during the 1985 NCAA Division I-AA football season. Led by fifth-year head coach Sonny Jackson, the Colonels compiled an overall record of 6–5 with a mark of 2–3 in conference play, placing in a three-way tie for third in the Gulf State. Nicholls State played home games at John L. Guidry Stadium in Thibodaux, Louisiana.