csu lamb Preview

csu lamb Preview

It’s Game Day Eve morning and I am finally getting this out as I count down the hours until Ralphie runs across SA Field and CU kicks off the season!  Although I agree with all of the points made by Boulder Devil http://buffwatch.blogspot.com/2013/08/just-say-no-to-denver-hosting-rocky.html and others, I will indeed be making the trip down to Mile High.  I just can’t not go to a CU game when I am in the state, even though the series has spiraled downward in excitement, meaning and attendance, even though both teams have been mired in a perpetual slump since the good old days of Sonny and Bradlee vs. Barnett and Klatt, even though I am the only one of eight ticket holders in the family who is planning on actually attending-although a couple will give in at the last minute and go.  And I am taking a friend and his two kids who will be attending their first football game of any sort.  I can’t wait until the series returns to campuses, but I am not willing to deprive myself of college football in the meantime.  So, let’s get to the preview and the game…

§  First of all, it’s time for this game to get back to the blowout it was and should be!

§  Both teams emphasized quick tempo in fall practices and this game should feature a lot of yards and points as both defenses are suspect.  Both teams are fairly young and inexperienced and will play a lot of different guys.  Both teams have a few Colorado guys, but more from California.  

§  The line has been 3.5 points both ways at different times and all over the place. Not sure what is but I don’t care because this has been one of the most unpredictable games, especially with a new coaching staff on at least one of the sidelines.

§  Burn the Redshirt: A total of 13 true freshmen are listed on three/four deep that could play this year, so “Who’s gonna burn their redshirt today?” is still a viable pre-game tailgater conversation starter (#BurntheRedshirt will also become and in-game Twitter ritual).  There are six newbies listed on the two-deep that should see action this week, and maybe as many as nine or ten. LB Addison Gilliam will be out there first defensive snap unless they start in the nickel in which case it will be DB Chidobe Awuzie; also expect to see DEs Jimmie Gilbert and Derek McCartney on defense and WRs Devin Ross and Jeff Thomas on offense; if they really liked what they saw with George Frazier at fullback, we could see him paving the way for the RBs and possibly Michael Adkins (does this mean Lindsay is slated for a redshirt?), they just might get him some offensive touches and special teams work right away?

§  The maybes would be Olugbode, who is listed 2^nd at LB behind Webb but could just start out on special teams also, same as walk-on Ryan Moeller; Tedric Thompson is listed as co-backupn at safety (with Smith, behind Bell) and could also see action; the offensive lineman would only play in emergency with multiple injuries. There is a slim chance TE Connor Center’s size gets him on the field at a weak position.

§  And, of course, we could see a little Sefo package mixed into the game plan…but probably not yet...although with closed practice...

§  I also count at least four redshirt freshmen that could see action at some point: OG Alex Kelley, LB Clay Norgard, CB John Walker and DE D’Jon Wilson.

§  Game Captains: Of the six captains-D Webb, Chidera, Vigo, Harris, P-Rich, Wood-not sure which four will get to be on the field for the opener but maybe the first four listed-the seniors?

§  Injuries: The Buffs have a long list of injuries but few are to players in the two-deep. The biggest hole might be with versatile offensive lineman Jeromy Irwin who is out indefinitely after breaking a foot at home. DB Josh Moten is out for the season but that is old news (and I guess we could mention Jordan Webb).  K Justin Castor is also out for the season. Josh Ford is out at least a month, but everyone else is expected to play, with Yuri Wright probable recovering from a concussion.

§  The defensive line from csu had been hit hard by injuries but it appears most are healthy.

When the Buffs have the ball:

§  Connor Wood time is now.  Everyone says he is way better now than he was last year, the offense is simpler and he has more to work with for receivers.   However, this game will be won in the trenches: if CU’s offensive line, experienced but not necessarily proven nor have they all worked together much, can give some time, this offense should be able to move the ball and score some points, especially with the stable of capable receivers Coach Troy Walters has been preparing. Daniel Munyer is back practicing but with limited reps so it is very possible Alex Kelley will get a series or two. As noted above, csu’s d-line has been hampered with injuries.  Look for the Buffs to run right behind Nembot a lot and to protect him a little with TEs and RB chips on passing downs.  Supposed all snap snafus are in the past with Gus Handler.  If this group can’t handle it, there is not much depth to try out after Kelley and Mustoe so they just better do the job.

§  The lamb-backers, led by Shaquil Barrett, are supposedly the team’s strength, meaning they will work very hard to stop the run on early downs and make life difficult for Wood. They also have Cory James, who sometimes plays like a DE and wreaked his havoc on the Buffs last year.  If the o-line doesn’t win the battle in the trenches, these guys could be trouble for Wood and the RBs.

§  CB Shaq Bell is the best cover lamb and will likely draw P-Rich early and often.  It will be interesting to see how much they double him, or if they just ask Bell to smother him.  Look for the QB (again, it has not been announced yet and all four were in the competition as late as last week) to take a shot at P-Rich early, or if he is obviously doubled, to Devin Ross or Jeff Thomas on the other side.

§  Scottie Fernandez has received high praise of late after receiving lots of extra reps with the ones (Slavin injury) and he just might surprise.

§  The not so sleeper pick this year is WR DD Goodson (although my Pac12 fantasy league also allows me to play him as an RB!) and a lot of people close to the program are expecting big things from him.  He may be too quick for a lot of defenders to handle this year, with a monster spin move after the catch.  Look for him to have numerous catches and to break a long one off of that spin move. Frosh Devin Ross backs him up and has also been “explosive” in recent practices.

§  However, listening to coaches of late, especially OC Brian Lindgren, this team wants to be able to run the ball more than a lot of people, specifically San Jose fans, might expect.  Christian Powell is a bruiser and if the Buffs can run the ball effectively with him and mix it up with Tony Jones and maybe Donta Abron and the frosh Adkins, the passing game will open up that much more and it will be a long day indeed for the dozens of csu fans expected at the game.

§  The Buffs should have a great “Jumbo” package for short yardage situations with Scottie Fernandez and a bunch of big TEs, Powell at RB and some options at FB (including frosh Frazier).

When the lambs have the ball:

§  Coach macelwain announced early in camp that they wanted to name a starter soon, but now it looks like they can’t decide, and it’s not because they are all playing lights out, so he is saying that he may play as many as three QBs, which should bode well for the Buffs, if he actually follows through on this “threat”. Garret Grayson is the most experienced and will likely get the start, but doesn’t look like he will play the whole game, especially if the defense makes him look bad early.  Soph. Conner Smith was pretty good down the stretch last year and true frosh Nick Stevens has impressed and has the most upside.  MacIntyre said early in the week he “guarantees” macelwain already knew his starter and plan.

§  No matter whom it is at QB, the lambs will try to pass the ball to a bunch of mediocre inexperienced receivers and take advantage of a secondary that has been very suspect in the recent past.  Look for them to take shots deep on their first drive and throughout the game with Charles Lovett as primary target.  I wouldn’t be surprised at all if Crawley was the target of a few.  They always seem to hit a TE in the seam for a huge gain against us as well and Sr. Crockett Glimore (gotta admit that is a great name) is the guy to watch but they also have Kivon Cartwright.  I expect to see a lot of frosh Chido Awuzie in nickel and dime packages (and more?) as well as safeties Marques Mosley and Terrel Smith.

§  Just as on the other side of the ball, line play will be crucial and if the Buff defensive line can win the battle in the trenches against a very experience lamb line, it will take some pressure off the secondary and allow Derrick Webb and the other Buff linebackers to make plays.  Coach Jeffcoat thinks he has eight guys ready to go but would prefer 10 rotating on the d-line. Look for csu to focus on and double-team Chidera often, which should open things up for guys like Juda Parker, Paul Vigo and secondary blitzes from Chido and others.

§  There has not been a ton on the lamb running game, and they plan on rotating a lot of backs, starting with bowling ball senior Chris Nwoke and followed by up to five freshmen and sophomores led by Donnell Alexander.  If the Buff D is disciplined, “get to the ball” as they preach in practice, and wrap up when tackling, it won’t matter who is carrying the ball, although Nwoke is certainly the toughest to bring down. Of course, if they can’t slow down the run, it will be a long day for the other side of the stadium.

§  DC Kent Baer has talked to the team a lot about and worked hard on creating more turnovers.  I think the Buffs get a defensive TD in this one.

Special Teams:

§  This group should be much improved for the Buffs this year, just because they were absolutely awful on returns and coverage last year, and have dedicated Toby Neinas to coach just special teams, not to mention that they have dedicated a lot of time to it. Both teams proclaimed to have focused on and improved in this area. I almost expect at least one trick play along the way from someone.

§  Spruce should be a solid punt returner and we’ll see what the coaches decide on the go for kickoffs (although more and more will be touchbacks).  If it’s close late I would not be surprised at all to see P-Rich field a punt-he is listed as #2.

§  The lambs say they really like what redshirt freshman Hayden (hate that name) Hunt is doing, replacing a four-year starter, and feel good about his punting.  (One way to change that quickly.)

§  Their depth at LB depth bodes well for their special teams units with a decent combination of size and speed. 

§  However, the Buffs have a distinct advantage with the legs and feet of their solid kicker and nationally recognized punter (as they actually will over most opponents this season).  Darragh O’Neill will begin his All-America and Ray Guy Award campaign this week-let’s just hope he doesn’t get too much work, and I don’t believe he will.  Wil Oliver has been very consistent rarely misses an extra point and he feels confident well into the 50’s on FGs; he will handle kickoffs as well with the intention of blasting it deep into or out of the endzone most of the time.

§  Plus, Ryan Iverson is an experienced long-snapper who also gets down on coverage (Neinas has noticed and likes that) and O’Neill is now also a capable, and let’s not forget, very athletic, holder-I would expect to see him run a fake at some point this year, and if you can pull it off in the first game of the year, every team has to worry about it that much more.

§  Oliver will also handle kickoffs full-time this year and has been hitting deep into and out of the endzone pretty consistently.

Overall,

§  We should see a lot of different quarterbacks, a lot of offense and a ton of empty seats.  The most important areas to watch are hard to see sometimes, but line play will probably decide this game.  Bottom line, the Buffs better go out and just win this damn game! 

§  Buffs 34 lambs 17

§  If you want some more, need some more, and I know you do if you are reading this…

Stuart’s TIPS: http://www.cuatthegame.com/2013/colorado-state-preview-2/

Plati’s CU Game Notes: http://www.cubuffs.com/fls/600/gameday/csu13/cunotes.pdf

All your GameDay info: http://www.cubuffs.com/ViewArticle.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=600&ATCLID=209225591

csu game notes: http://www.cubuffs.com/fls/600/gameday/csu13/csunotes.pdf

Go Buffs!  Beat them lambies!

Depth Chart!

§  The depth chart was released Tuesday so we’ll squeeze in an extra post before the preview.  There were no shocking surprises, except maybe that the offense lists 12 starters with a TE and a third/slot WR (that might give us a nice advantage). Otherwise the starters are generally those projected (although a few mild but notable surprises as backups to be discussed below): QB Wood (Liufau), RB Powell (Jones, Abron, Adkins), WRs Richardson (Canty, Wes Christensen), Spruce (McCulloch, Thomas) , Goodson (Ross), TE Fernandez (Slavin, Wood, Irwin)), O-line Harris-Crabb-Handler-Munyer-Nembot (Mustoe next tackle, Kelley next guard and Crabb would go to center); on d-line Uzo-Diribe/Tupou/Bonsu/Parker (with lots of rotation including McCartney, Gilbert), LBs Webb (Olugbode, Severson)-Gilliam (Daigh)-Vigo (Greer), Bell/Orms/Henderson/Crawley (Adobe nickel, Mosley dime). Oh yeah, there was a new commitment also.

§  Roster Moves: One roster casualty was TE Austin Ray, who did not make the four-deep roster and was unlikely to play, has transferred, opening up another scholarship for the next recruiting class…

§  2014 Recruiting: In the run-up to the opening game, the Buffs picked up commitment number 13 with another Utah defensive lineman in Christian Shaver.

§  Notable depth chart items: Liufau is the definitive number two QB and would go in without hesitation, even if Wood missed just one play for an equipment problem.  So, whether we see a “Sefo” package or not might be the biggest question.  He has shown “phenomenal maturity”, supposedly a strong grasp of the offense and physically is the strongest and fastest, if not most accurate passer yet.  MacIntyre did say something along the lines of ‘if Wood played every snap all season…’ and “he gets lots of reps and preparation in practice” and that they won’t rush to get Liufau onto the field. I think they will get him some action at some point, if not against csu, then maybe Central Arkansas, as the coach also cited concussions and that QBs rarely play every game these days.

§  It looks like the QB will have a variety of receivers to throw to including true frosh wideouts Devin Ross (who could eventually end up returning punts and kicks) and Jeffrey Thomas plus walk-on Wes Christensen (who just catches balls); Fernandez is listed ahead of Slavin at TE, which is an indictment on the position as a whole.

§  Frosh RB Michael Adkins was listed 4^th and we should see him lineup in the backfield at some point as well as on special teams.

§  Daniel Munyer will start at RG, despite not having practiced much, so we will probably see a little of Kelley also.  They basically go eight deep and would do well to avoid injury on the o-line.

§  The biggest surprise on defense  is not having true frosh LB Addison Gilliam hold off Brady Daigh (who will still play a lot), but that true frosh Olugbode and Severson are listed as Derrick Webb’s backups at the other inside backer slot (even though they might not play at all if he stays healthy).  Poston, McCartney, Gilbert and Wilson are listed as the backup DEs and all will probably play at some point play at some point, with Solis, Henington and Kafovalu (from starting DE to 3^rd DT?) and walk-on Tuso for depth at DT.  That’s twelve guys total who will all eventually play (except maybe Tuso?) so it will be interesting to see how effective the first eight are and who else gets to play.

§  Chidobe Awuzie will be the first DB in with multiple wideout sets which will be often and he will also start many games because of that as well.  Number 4 is the not so secret player to watch and I still thinks he overtakes Crawley at some point. Tedric Thompson is listed #3 at safety behind Orms so he could get on the field as well.

§  Other Buff Notes: Ray Polk was cut by the Seahawks and Ryan Miller was cut by the Browns (ouch).

Coming up fast on real football! Fall camp transitions into lamb prep

It is barely a week to go until the showdown (or less depending on when you read this) and lots going on in Buffland including closed practices, pre-game trash talk and a new recruit!

§  Mike MacIntyre and the Buffs have closed practice to the public and media (will have access first 20 minutes only) until further notice, at least until after the csu game.  I am not sure if this decision is because I was posting too much information or not, or CU just wanting to get a little edge on little brother.  The team also ended two-a-days and will practice only in the mornings now as they start to install the game plan and plays for csu.  We don’t know for sure but MacIntyre said Friday’s practice, the 22^nd overall session in August, was the “best, sharpest, crispest of the whole fall.”

§  For all intents and purposes, as I am about to post this on Saturday, even though my wife disagrees based on conventional definition of a “week”, it is now officially Game Week!  Therefore, thou shalt wear no green!

§  I will post my lambie preview Wed. or Thurs. and a Gameday Notes Sunday morning before I make the trek down to Mile High with the few hundred other people who are actually attending the game.

Team Notes:

§  Freshman: “Devin Ross and Chidobe Awuize would play right now and they play on special teams too so those two guys would definitely play right now. There are others that are on the fringe but if you ask me today those two would play.” – Mike MacIntyre on Tuesday.  Both guys have some speed and the knack to make plays and the few of you that read this know I like Chido. Surprised he didn’t mention LB Addison Gilliam, but maybe that is already assumed after the spring.  I am not sure who the players on the “fringe” are but possibly RBs Adkins and/or Lindsay, DE Glibert, LB Severson and DB Moeller on special teams, maybe even Sefo, but practices are closed so we may not know until game day.  “Who’s gonna burn their redshirt today?” was one of my favorite pre-game rituals the last two seasons.

§  QBs: For some reason the coaches refuse to name a starter, insisting all four guys are still alive in the competition, even though it appears to be pretty clear to everyone else that Connor Wood (who has taken to wearing a glove in the heat) will take the first snap at Mile High.  While MacIntyre said that all four have received equal reps during camp, Wood only ever take reps with the first team while the other three rotate. Wood only played three series in the scrimmage (again only with the ones), he is a captain and the whole team talks about him being a great leader, QB and the guy.  If he isn’t named the starter it would kill his ego and the team’s confidence in him as well.

§  They are not fooling anyone…unless they are, and they have decided to go with Liufau and are closing practice for that reason.  They could also be installing some Sefo packages, if they are planning to make him the backup and get him some playing time.  If not, this is as stupid as dragging it out and saying the Cody might not get the nod each of his four years playing for daddy.

§  For my money though, it is still Connor’s team, Sefo will redshirt (although I love the idea of a “Sefo package”), but the backup battle between Dorman and Gehrke could continue throughout the season.

§  Offensive Line: Daniel Munyer is still not fully back practicing, although they hope to get him back for a week of practice before the first game.  Versatile Jeromy Irwin is out until at least Pac12 play. 

§  In the meantime, Alex Kelley and Kawai Crabb have gotten most of the first team reps at guard.  I saw true frosh Jonathon Huckins’ name mentioned (by the Post’s John Henderson) for the first time as a candidate for playing time, even though he sat out the scrimmage and didn’t even have pads on, nor was he working out with trainers and injured players. Huckins has also tried a little Pistol snapping at center.

§  Jack Harris said even though he put some weight on with Dave Forman over the summer, he is concerned he is losing too much during camp and is trying to eat extra every meal. Harris is one of the six captains and hopes to follow in the footsteps of the last three left tackles, who are all playing in the NFL-Tyler Polumbus (Washington I think), Nate Solder (New England) and David Bahktiari (possibly starting LT for injury-riddled Green Bay).

§  Receivers: Greyshirt frosh Jeff Thomas is back practicing with the team and is Scott Adams (of Buffzone’s Pac12 Blog) pick as freshman to surprise.  His ability to stay healthy will be important as his combination of size and speed brings another dimension to the offense. With P-Rich, Thomas and Goodson on the field, defenses will have a hard time accounting for all three.

§  True frosh Devon Ross has been described as “explosive” recently and can be considered a shoe-in to get some playing time now. If he is the in the four-receiver set…and add Spruce for the five wide.  That is actually starting to sound interesting.

§  TE Kyle Slavin will begin practicing next week and should play in the showdown-he was already only wearing a brace on his hand and was fully dressed at the scrimmage.

§  RBs: George Frazier is indeed giving it a go a fullback and it sounds like if they like him he will play now.  However, for now he will still practice at LB, and he would likely redshirt to put on some weight if he remains on defense.  This is little surprising as they were originally so concerned about linebacker depth and it doesn’t sound like they even use a FB that much.  RB Josh Ford will probably need surgery on his ankle and will be out an extended time, possibly the season; he could apply for a medical hardship and sixth year of eligibility, but who knows what the NCAA would rule. 

§  This opens up playing time for someone like Donta Abron or frosh Adkins and Lindsay, who both had an impressive scrimmage.  It doesn’t seem that Crowder or Creer are making any waves on the depth chart.

§  Front seven: Markeis Reed is moving from LB to DE.  He has been injured quite a bit and the staff must feel good about LB depth. My pick for pleasant surprise on the d-line is Juda Parker, who has underachieved a little with his recruiting hype, was injured in the spring and has quietly moved back up the depth chart.  He is poised for a breakout season, especially as opposing offenses will be accounting for Chidera.

§  LBs should actually, outside of Derrick Webb, rotate a lot this season as Webb is the only one who is strong enough to run stop on a consistent basis an fast enough to drop into pass coverage; everyone else is better suited to one or the other.  Paul Vigo is the main “change of pace” guy as he used to play safety and showed a knack for getting to the QB last year, but he is not the first down type of guy they want out there, like Brady Daigh or Woodson Greer.  Addison Gilliam could also play that type of reserve role.

§  DBs: Kenneth Crawley is confident and ready for his sophomore season, expecting to “be a ballhawk.” He is focused on getting an interception this year and has dedicated himself to film study.  He still looked a little out of it at the one practice I saw, though less so at the scrimmage.  If Kenneth Crawley starts, I am a little worried that opposing QBs will spot him and target him, just as they did last year and just as it appeared that Buff QBs have been doing in practice.

§  Nonetheless, I am still waiting for an announcement that true frosh Chidobe Awuzie will be the starter opposite Greg Henderson at cornerback, or maybe this is one of the secrets they are hoping to keep.  Even if Chido doesn’t start against csu, I think he will play a lot and it is only a matter of time and confidence until he takes it over.

§  Special Teams: The Buffs’ most decorated preseason player, P Darragh O’Neill, is expecting to improve upon his 43.5 yards per punt that was good for 18^th in the nation.  He has put in a lot of work on the field and in the film room, focusing on making better contact. He is confident he can “add a few yards” to last year’s average.  O’Neill is also the number one holder and relishes the pressure of a job that only gets noticed when they make a mistake.

§  Although he is not the fastest, most explosive or most elusive, WR Nelson “Double-Deuce” Spruce is the most sure-handed of the five or six main punt return candidates and therefore he will start the season as the punt returner against csu, Mike MacIntyre said Thursday.  However, Spruce can still run and make some nice cuts, but he is no P-Rich.  I wouldn’t be surprised if WR Devin Ross got a shot later in the season after he builds some confidence and gains a little college-speed experience.   Nor would I be surprised if P-Rich took one here in there in key situations late in the game, but they do not want him out there on a regular basis to limit injury risk. 

§  They have not named kickoff returners, but MacIntyre said that will group will start “by committee” and will be based on “what is happening during the flow of the game.”  The four that dropped back at the end of the scrimmage (I missed the very beginning and they did some then as well) were Marques Mosley, Devin Ross, Ryan Moeller and Ryan Severson.

2014 Recruiting: It had been quiet on this front since the flurry of defensive lineman at the start of August until Friday when Houston OT Elijah Rodriguez made the call to become number 12 and a new wave of #CUin14 went out on Twitter.  Rodriguez had hinted he was favoring CU and waited a week to make the announcement to make sure he was fully committed.  He is 6’6” 275 and has been given three stars by at least two sites. His offers include ASU, Illinois and Central Florida, among many others.

§  From ESPN (Insider) and Erik McKinney “Pac12 fall recruiting capsules”- Colorado: “Who they have: The new coaching staff has made an impact where Colorado always needs to be successful: at home and in the talent-rich states of California and Texas. Those three states have provided 10 of the 11 verbal commitments for a 2014 class that is defensively loaded at this point. QB Cade Aspay was a steal and is a recruit capable of generating some serious interest this fall. LB Rick Gamboa is incredibly productive, and pulling a defensive trio of LB Grant Watanabe, DT Eddy Lopez and S Chance Waz out of Texas will lead to more success for the Buffaloes in the Lone Star State. Who they want: OT Sam Jones is a big in-state target for the Buffs, and they likely will make a big push for four-star RB Nathan Starks now that he has moved into the state for his senior season. ATH Kallen Ballage and OT Isaiah Holland are two in-state prospects who would prove Colorado is moving in the right direction. OT Alex Anderson would give the Buffs size on the offensive line, while Colorado will try to continue making its mark in California (with CB Donovan Lee, S Khalil Rashad-Brown and DE David Moa) and Texas (with CB Dominique Barnett and S Courtland Sutton). Fall storyline: It's unlikely Colorado will contend for the Pac-12 South title this season, but that doesn't mean it can't make some noise and get recruits interested. That could fall on the shoulders of Paul Richardson, the dynamic receiver who missed the 2012 season but appears ready to go this fall. A big season from Richardson combined with the same relentless recruiting from new coach Mike MacIntyre could generate a buzz around the Buffaloes that hasn't been heard in several years. Bold prediction: Colorado won't land a single "big-name" recruit in MacIntyre's first full recruiting class, but down the road, this group will form the nucleus of the team during Colorado's first competitive Pac-12 season under MacIntyre.”

§  Here’s what McKinney had to say later about CU verbal commit QB Cade Aspay, the state of CU QBs and the class in general: I really like Cade Apsay (Canyon Country, Calif./Canyon) as a quarterback and as a person. He is definitely a Pac-12 quarterback and should put up some impressive statistics during his senior season. I don't think he will be seen as being as big of a get as Sefo Liufau from the 2013 class, but if the quarterback recruiting stays on this trajectory for head coach Mike MacIntyre, Colorado is going to be just fine at the position. As for the rest of the class, I think Colorado is doing what it needs to do with what it has right now. I like that it's defense-heavy, as the top five commitments play on that side of the ball. Linebacker Rick Gamboa (West Hills, Calif./Chaminade) is a very nice addition. The message MacIntyre and the staff are delivering is hitting recruits, but it will be about taking a step forward on the field this season.  It's a tough spot he was put in, trying to dig out of the bottom of a deep conference, but so far it seems he's doing a very good job of targeting and getting players who can add to the program now, as well as those who can develop for the future.

§  Here’s what Jack Follman at Pacific Takes had to say about Colorado in his Pac12 Recruiting Roundup:  “The Buffs may not already have a wealth of big time prospects committed, but it's a promising sign for Mike McIntyre and his staff that he already has 11 players pledged to Colorado coming off of what was probably the worst season in the program's history. The Buffs are doing a good job of hitting California and Texas hard, but their most promising commitment might be from Longmont, Colorado tackle Isaac Miller. The Buffs desperately need start recruiting well in-state again, and getting Miller in the fold is a good start.”

Other Buff Notes:

§  On Pac12 Networks’ “Training Camp Preview” for Colorado, both coordinators addressed the run as their top priority.  On offense, even though they will go no-huddle most of the time, they likely won’t be rushing to get the play off like Oregon, except for certain situations, but they want to chew up yardage and time and wear opposing defense down, especially at home.  Lindgren also glowed when talking about what Paul Richardson brings to the table.  On the other side of the ball, Kent Baer also said stopping the run is top priority, to be able to somewhat control what the other team is doing and can do.  He also flat out said they are not very good at a lot of fundamentals, including tackling and using leverage.

§  Also in the coverage, Mike MacIntyre was very fun to watch, engaging, vocal but not loud on the field; D-line coach Jim Jeffcoat was amusing to watch and pretty soft-spoken.

§  The most disturbing part of the half hour, was not actually listening to Rick Neuweasel and his arrogance, but watching him be so touchy-feely with everyone. Eeeew, creepy!

§  Tyler Ziskin’s “The Air Up There” must read blog about the  csu “rivalry”: http://theairuphere.com/2013/08/19/having-some-fun-with-little-brother/

§  Chidera Uzo Diribe and S Parker Orms were named to the Senior Bowl Watch List (which I never knew existed).

§  Pacific Takes’ Jack Follman is getting short for material after his prolific previewing over the summer, so his latest is ranking offensive lines solely by average weight of projected starters; the Buffs were tied with USC at 6^th at 300 pounds. “Colorado's starting line is still very much up in the air due to injury, but they have about average size across the board. Hey, at least Colorado isn't at the bottom in the conference at something.”

§  Former RB Davien Payne, who never saw the field and could not meet expectations and was subsequently kicked off the team, was arrested for assault and stealing a car in Boulder over the weekend.  I wonder if he has contacted nebraska about a possible scholarship.

August 17 Scrimmage

Generic Scrimmage Notes:

§  It felt a little like a Fall day as the scrimmage commenced a little after 9:00AM, although many fans were confused by published reports and showed up late. The team basically rotated 3 offensive and defensive squads, usually ones vs. ones, twos vs. twos.   The offense was almost exclusively no huddle, but the defense was able to make some plays.  

§  They got in about 100 plays in a little over and hour and a half before players showered to come back out for Healthy Kids Day, which was sponsored by the combo of Country Buffet and Jewish Medical (go to one and then the other).

§  After a couple of series for the first stringers, they rested numerous sure fire starters like P-Rich (dominant-no one on this team can stop him), Derrick Webb, Greg Henderson, Chidera, Jack Harris, and let various younger players get some time with “higher” units. The team has its first day off since practices began, but will come back to two-a-days on Monday.

§  There supposedly has been an emphasis on tackling (this week players had to run a tackling drill three time until they got it right), but to my eye it seems this is still an area to work on and I am sure will show up for a few players on film.

§  There were no new injuries reported (unlike the poor Broncos), but numerous guys were still out with injury: TE Slavin, RB Ford, WR Thomas, OG Munyer, LB Reed, DE Coleman, both Irwins.

§  QBs: I don’t think there is any doubt that Connor Wood is the starter, but they are not announcing anything officially yet, but could possibly do so Monday (and should just get it over with).  Wood took every third series with the first team offense, only three total series, while they rotated the other three QBs thru so all got reps with all three units.  Dorman followed Wood, then Gehrke (nice TD to Goodson), then Sefo was 4^th but that meant he played with the full ones his first series and capitalized with a 64-yarder to P-Rich.

§  Sefo later had a fabulous scramble and throw where fellow frosh RB Michael Adkins adjusted, went downfield and caught the pass for a big gain to set up a score, but he also was responsible for two of the worst throws of the day.  I do not think the coaching staff is resigned to redshirt him just yet.

§  O-line: Stefane Nembot was back at RT, with Kawai Crabb and Alex Kelley at the guards.  Marc Mustoe got some time with the ones when Harris sat.  On the third team it was Vincent Arvia at center with Brad Cotner (can’t do medium pistol snap) at guard.

§  Secondary: CB Chidobe Awuzie all but guaranteed himself a spot on the two-deep and playing time as a true frosh. I wrote that last sentence before the scrimmage when I was setting up the template so I could easily and quickly get it posted Sunday, and it appeared to me that Chido was actually running first team ahead of Crawley, opposite Henderson, with Orms and Bell at safety and Marques Mosley first nickel. Awuzie did get beat bad by DD Goodson for his score (that guy has some moves!). Crawley and Jeff Hall were second team corners with Smith and Mosley.  Harrison Hunter and Brandon Brisco, both walk-ons, were the 3^rd team corners.  I didn’t notice Yuri Wright or John Walker out there anywhere.

§  Linebackers: I think Brady Daigh has regained his starting spot alongside Webb for now. Greer and Vigo split the first and second team reps outside. Addison Gilliam was the anchor of the second team defense.

§  D-line: I think Juda Parker might have climbed back up the depth chart now that he is healthy and could provide some help to Chidera on the outside.  Tupou and Bonsu were the clogs inside but there will be numerous tackles rotating, including Solis, Henington and Samson “Kool-Aid” Kafovalu who played in and out. De’Jon Wilson had a nice tackle for loss with 3^rd string.

§  Other Freshmen: Besides Chido and Gilliam, DE Jimmie Gilbert got a lot of reps, including some with first team; I did not see #28 LB George Frazier on defense, but there was a #28 on white not listed on the roster who lined up at fullback with the third team offense and I am pretty sure it was him. S Tedric Thompson was running with the threes.

§  RB Michael Adkins had a great game and showed some speed, soft hands and running ability and may push for some time.  Philip Lindsay seems fully recovered from his knee injury and also made some nice plays. Donta Abron had a nice TD around the end.  All the RBs got some reps but it is unclear who will get any regular season playing time after Jones and Powell, but Adkins is the hot fan choice right now.

§  A few of the freshmen offensive lineman who have not been reported with injuries stood on sidelines without pads, possibly already slated to redshirt?

§  TE Connor Center got a lot of third team reps. Nobody appeared to do much at this position but the TE will be a surprise weapon at a few key junctures this season.

§  WRs: All three of the frosh wideouts got a lot of 2^nd and 3^rd teams reps but did not do a whole lot.  Devin Ross was the only one in the returner mix, and the only player who lined up for both punt and kickoff returns (had a nice kickoff return), which makes me think he is the one who doesn’t redshirt.

§  Special Teams: They ran some sets of numerous almost live field goals, punts and kickoffs, rather than fully live when an offense got to 4^th down.  Darragh’s punts looked good and five guys were back to return: P-Rich, Ross, Canty, Spruce and walk-on freshman WR Cheldon West.  Mosley (long kickoff return) and true frosh LB Ryan Severson were first back for kickoffs, followed by Ross and Rifle’s walk-on Ryan Moeller.

§  Moeller, who seems to have an nose for the ball and makes plays happen when he is in on defense (had the only interception), and could earn a scholarship on just special teams play while Severson could end up playing multiple special teams units to earn his freshman letter.

§  2014 Recruiting: It looked like there might have been a few recruits hanging around the scrimmage but no one I recognized (not that I would recognize many).

Practice Notes

Generic Practice Notes:

I was able to attend the morning practice on Wednesday and came away excited for the season after getting to watch a lot of offensive drills and some 7-on-7 and 11-on-11 scrimmaging.   I am planning to attend the scrimmage this morning (Saturday), which is supposed to go from about 9:00-11:30.  The scrimmage will be followed by “Healthy Kids Day” with all kinds of fun crap for the little future Buffs.  I will post something Sunday (hopefully) as well, though not about the Kids day stuff. Here are the basics and the obvious from Wednesday and the rest of the week.

§  It was a distinctly different atmosphere from the last time we were able to watch fall practices two years ago.  There was music playing loud but not too loud and good rock and 80’s tunes.   The coaches are still very vocal but not nearly as loud as the previous regime and a little less intense.  That’s not to say there isn’t any fire as even some coaches got a little heated. The intensity was still very high, lots of talking, encouraging, cheering and coaching going on.

§  The practices are indeed spread out across all the fields, working at a fast pace, moving players through centers within positional groups, jogging at end of a reps and between drills, kids aren’t standing around that much.

§  The DBs get extra attention and reps since they have two coaches, Andy LaRussa (loudest and youngest of the bunch) with the corners, and Charles Clark in charge of the safeties and nickelbacks, plus MacIntyre spends a lot of his time with them as well.

§  It didn’t seem like there were too many injuries, but TE Kyle Slavin was working drills more like a coach after breaking his hand and is questionable for the csu game. True frosh S Tedric Thompson was wearing a bright blue “no contact” jersey, but participating in most drills.

§  The defense was especially spirited as they ruled the day with what I saw; however, the offense was without two starting offensive lineman-interior lineman Daniel Munyer was in pads but still working on side on his own and said he is almost back and RT Stepane Nembot’s absence for personal reasons was visible because the guy is huge!

§  LB Derrick Webb is the unquestioned leader of the defense, very vocal on the sidelines and very active on the field.

§  I think it is nice of MacIntyre to say the QB race is still wide open but from my untrained eye, from the looks of how they were giving reps and who was performing, Connor Wood will be the starter barring only injury.  Kyle Ringo agrees. Paul Richardson all but made the claim: “Connor is an older guy now. So he kind of feels like he has to lead the pack. Him feeling like that has made him step up. It's helped out chemistry on offense, which has helped our chemistry with him throwing me the ball. We score a lot every day. Every day we score a lot."  So, what he’s saying is that they score a lot against the CU defense.

§  True frosh Sefo Liufau has impressed everyone abd OC/QB coach Brian Lindgren says he as far along as any freshmen he has seen, and I certainly thought he looked the part, although not as accurate as Wood or Gehrke.  Up to recently my gut thought Sefo will redshirt, but he may actually force the issue.  QB play in today’s scrimmage will be crucial for all three backups.

§  The freshman wide receivers all looked good, with Ross seemingly the most at ease and confident, after getting much praise from coaches; he is likely to play and the other two redshirt.

§  DD Goodson has some nice moves and…Paul Richardson is the man!  No one could cover him…

§  Which gives me concern about the DBs because they are some really good receivers in this conference besides P-Rich.  Crawley especially appeared to struggle against anyone.  It was nice to see Jered Bell healthy and running around with the first team. Some non-scholarship DBs-Isaac Archuleta and Richard Yates-made some nice plays.  Frosh Chidobe Awuzie is making his name and number 4 known on the practice fields (more below).

§  I didn’t see the kickers but MacIntyre said that Oliver has the main kicking job: “Will’s been very accurate, very competitive, and very professional in the way he works at it.”

§  Darian Hagan was taking in practice and chatting it up with some fans; he is the only holdover from the previous regime, now working on the administrative side.

§  Thursday’s practice was switched at the last minute “due to extenuating circumstances” and moved from the morning to the heat of the afternoon.  The offense had two 95-yard drives and the defense had an interception returned for a touchdown.

§  Friday’s practice was attended by about 40 former Buffs, who observed, cheered on and then talked to current players after practice.  The group included Blake Anderson

§  Great article on the receivers and their coach Troy Walters by BG Brooks: http://www.cubuffs.com/ViewArticle.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=600&ATCLID=209114060

Freshmen: Coaches have talked a lot about CB Chidobe Awuzie (everyone calls him “Chido” which happens to mean “cool” en español) and he showed why-he just makes plays happen (interception, 2 broken passes and a forced fumble).  It seems like he was the first nickel (not Parker Orms who was running exclusively with the twos).  My maybe not so bold prediction now is that Chido becomes the third true frosh in three years to start at cornerback for the Buffs.

§  Offensive lineman Gunnar Graham is huge!  TE Connor Center also looks the part, and seemed to catch fairly well, but I would still expect him to redshirt and develop.

§  2014 Recruiting: The Buffs are now up to 11 (“But this one goes to e-leven.”)  verbal commitments for this cycle after receiving their third verbal commitment from a defensive lineman in less than two weeks.  Sam Bennion from Logan, Utah is the latest, preceded by Jase Franke (Ventura/St. Bonaventure, CA) and Eddy Lopez (El Paso, TX). 

§  What does this say about what MacIntyre and Jeffcoat think of the group of d-lineman they currently have on the roster?  While the team has lost a few guys from the many recent prospects (most recently Kory Rasmussen and John Stuart, and even Stephane Nembot who switched to o-line) and they will graduate starter Uzo-Diribe and backup Nate Bonsu, the team is not going to sign eight d-lineman again.  For starters, Bennion will take his two-year mission before stepping on campus.  They have a decent amount of young talent and will add a little to the unit each year.  You want to get 3-5 offensive and defensive lineman every cycle.

§  Other Buff Notes: The ESPN Pac12 Blog did position reviews for the entire Pac12, rating each team and now they have given point values to rate each team overall.  For each position group teams received 3 points for “Great Shape”, 2 for “Good Shape” and 1 for “We’ll See” (but 2-1-0 for kicker and punter) and the Buffs ended up ranked Eleventh! Utah only garnered 12 points (8 out of 11 were “We’ll See”) two behind the Buffs.  Oregon was number one with 28 points (8 of 11 “Great shape”), and Arizona was only two points ahead of CU with 16 for 10^th place.

§  Nothing new really from their “Colorado Preview” but here’s the latest low-win last place preview: http://espn.go.com/blog/pac12/post/_/id/60114/colorado-buffaloes-season-preview?ex_cid=espnapi_public

§  CU ranked 33^rd on the "Academic Ranking of World Universities 2013" list of top universities across the globe.

§  The good, bad and the ugly from David Bahktiari, who has been elevated to starting left tackle for the Green Bay Packers.  He said that last year’s Buff team was dysfunctional, that many players didn’t really care and gave up, and that more players would head out from Thursday practice to “Ladies night” at a local bar than would stay to watch more film voluntarily.

Fall Camp in Full Swing

The Buffs are a full week in to Fall practices, have started going full pads and tackling on a limited amount of days and are even starting two-a-days!  There have been no major items yet and thankfully only minor injuries.  Practices are open to the media and public-we just aren’t allowed to share anything. I am heading up there this (Wednesday) morning, so I will have a generic post follow-up soon.  There will also probably be a scrimmage this Saturday, August 17, sometime during the 8:00-11:00 practice period and I plan on attending that as well.

  The players have been practicing across two fields in two main groups so they are all getting lots of reps.  Additionally, they are focused on practicing and playing up tempo so they are packing in a lot of plays in reps.  MacIntyre bragged they got 48 plays in during a 20 minute session.  They are hoping to be ready for all the hurry-up offenses they will face, playing more up tempo themselves (MacIntyre said they will probably only huddle about 10% of the time) and are hoping to take advantage of the altitude by being in the best physical shape, able to keep going late in games.  They will also play a lot of “position groups” to get lots of players in and keep everyone fresh.

  The team did some situational scrimmaging in Folsom on Tuesday, the first fully live play they have had, including some live special teams kicks, punts and returns.  There were seven officials watching over and calling practice from various conferences to help players understand how things will be called.

Roster Notes: DE Kory Rasmussen was the latest (and hopefully last) member of the squad to leave the team as it was decided he hadn’t met team expectations by the eve of camp.

  Even though MacIntyre still claims the QB spot is wide open, it appears that Connor Wood is pretty solid in keeping his starting position.  The bigger question is who will be the backup between newcomer Jordan Gehrke, who is the most accurate of the group, Stevie Joe Dorman-Detmer, who has the most time in the program and has surprised many with his progress, and wild card true frosh Sefu Liufau, who is the most athletic of the trio by far, has been impressing coaches and could end up playing some just because it will be hard to keep him off the field.  He needs to be good enough to get on the field or at least be the main backup with some separation from Gehrke and Dorman, otherwise it is a waste to not redshirt him (see Tyler Hansen, twice).

  Wide Receiver should continue to interesting because Troy Walters has a talented and experienced, but many have been dinged up at times so far.  P-Rich will be out there almost every play (I hope) and Spruce, McCulloch, Goodson, Canty, Thomas will rotate a lot, so everyone will gets reps and touches.  As there is no one who stands out at the TE spot, all five scholarship players-Fernandez, Slavin, Wood, S. Irwin and Ray-will get some playing time as well, but without Hobbs this position will not produce that much. One or more of the freshman between Bobo, Ross and Dunston will add some speed to the unit and special teams, as all three have gotten great reviews so far, especially Ross even though he has had to sit out some..

  The offensive line is close to set with Jack Harris and Stefane Nembot entrenched at the tackles, Gus Handler at center, with Daniel Munyer and Kawaii Crabb at the guards; Jeromy Irwin provides depth everywhere but has been injured and there has even been some talk that he could redshirt. Alex Kelly and Brad Cotner can play anywhere in the interior, and Marc Mustoe will backup at the tackles.   Munyer has yet to practice but is expected to be ready for csu.

  The RBs will probably rotate all three of Christian Powell, Tony Jones and Josh Ford, who all offer a little something different (similar to the TEs), and one of the younger guys-Abron, Creer, Crowder (who is finally healthy), and the frosh Adkins (who has started to turn some head) and Lindsay.

  Since they have lost a few guys, anyone left will be part of the Defensive line rotation, starting with Chidera Uzo-Diribe and Samson Kafovalu outside (backed up by Kirk Poston and Juda Parker), with the slimmed down Josh Tupou and Sr. Nate Bonsu on the inside (backed up by Justin Solis and Tyler Henington).  DeJon Wilson was a terror on the scout team and could factor in somewhere and frosh DEs Jimmie Gilbert and Derek McCartney have gotten a lot of praise in camp so far.

  Derrick Webb should be on the field most plays at inside LB with true frosh Addison Gilliam, who staked his claim during the spring, and Soph. Jr. Brady Daigh, who lost ground to Gilliam with an injury and has never regained it, helping out inside, while Sr. Paul Vigo will hold down the outside backed up by Woodson Greer.  All five of those guys will play a lot.  Clay Norgard will need some time to re-accustom body and mind to the position after a year plus trying to be a fullback, while Lowell Williams and KT Tu’umalo provide depth and special teams support.

  MacIntyre said the secondary is “freakin’ light years” ahead of where they were in the spring.  Remember where they were coming from last year and they still have a long journey ahead of them with the Pac12 offenses they will face.

  Cornerback may actually be one of the stronger position groups with returning starters and experienced backups, led by steady Greg Henderson and the much improved Kenneth Crawley, backed up by Yuri Wright, John Walker and Jeff Hall. True frosh CB Chidobe Awuzie is pushing for playing time with his speed and playmaking, plus he is well known to the staff from the San Jose area.

  At safety the Buffs a have some experience, but are a little s l o w.  Parker Orms is the main playmaker but is injury prone and is also main nickelback (and will be susceptible to new hitting/ejection rules) while Terrel Smith and Jered Bell are capable but mediocre; athletic Soph.

  Marques Mosley is one of the most athletic and fastest DBs (see his 100-yard kickoff return last season) and has been practicing at both safety spots and nickel, but has supposedly struggling a little under new expectations in the new scheme.  Eventually, he will be a regular part of the secondary rotation.

  Preseason Consensus All-Pac12 Punter Darragh O’Neill will lead the special teams unit and Wil Oliver will be the kicker.  Newcomer Mexicano Diego Gonzalez provides a huge leg but will have to sit out this year due to international transfer rules-look for him to at least kickoff in 2014.

  We are still unsure as to who will be returning kicks and punts and there are a lot of candidates.  The scrimmages might provide some insight to that.

  Freshmen: It is likely that other freshmen-besides Sefo, Gilbert, Gilliam, Awuzie and a wideout or two-will be called upon, although not as many as the last couple of seasons. Coach MacIntyre has said he will play true freshmen IF they are physically and mentally prepared, and they are going to get enough plays to contribute and develop. Ideally they would play more than just special teams, but sometimes a few frosh will earn their letter on that alone.

  Other frosh will very well could meet these criteria and make it on the field are: Ath Ryan Severson, who can play safety, LB or RB, and will likely be an every unit special teams player; LB Markeis Reid has turned a lot of head s and could make it into the LB rotation especially if he can contribute to Toby Neinas’ units; S Tedric Thompson might be the infusion of add speed needed at safety and could also be a multi-unit special teamer.  The other running backs, Lindsay and Adkins could factor in on some special teams, but are more likely to redshirt, especially with the three frosh receivers in the mix.

Some of the frosh definitely will redshirt though, including all the offensive lineman, late signee TE Connor Center who just needs to learn football (unless he just surprises and forces the issue), and DE Timothy Coleman, who has been injured and has not practiced yet.  We haven’t heard a lot about LBs George Frazier (came in looking the part but…) or Kenneth Olugbode (who definitely needs some time to put on weight) either.

 2014 Recruiting: The Buffs are up to 10 verbal commitments for this cycle after consensus three-star Jase Franke, a defensive lineman from St. Bonaventure in Ventura, CA, committed while on campus and set off the string of #CUin14 tweets Monday. He had offers from Arizona and interest from a lot of schools in the Pac12 and Penn St. One post said he could play either tackle or end, but another said he looked really small and would need to put on weight.

  Franke is the second DL commit in the last week after El Paso, TX  product Eddy Lopez also gave the staff his verbal.

  Numerous other prospects have taken unofficial visits and taken in some practice time, including Houston DT Elijah Rodriguez.  Since I have been gone and am too cheap to subscribe to any sites I don’t know all the names but AllBuffs.com probably has a nice roundup.

  Other Buff Notes: CU was ranked as the 86^th best team in the nation by CSBSports, last of the teams from the Big 5 conferences, although ahead of 93 csu, but behind Cal (60), WSU (62) and Utah (66).

  New Athletic Director Rick George is now officially on the job.   He and his daughter drove up from Texas and made CU football practice his first public stop on Sunday, then also caught the end of practice to wrap up his first official day on Monday. He said all the right things and is ready to get to work.

  Linda Lappe and the women’s basketball team are in Italy playing a four-game mini-tour against various levels of competition, similar to what the men’s team did in France last summer.  Teams are allowed to participate in this kind of trip once every four years.

  Pac12 is going after DirecTV hard asking subscribers to switch to anything else.  There are ads for each team showing what you see on Pac12 Networks (the football teams) or on DirecTV (pictures of the animals-buffalo, bison, bears-that are the mascots as if from wildlife programming).