Covered and Buried

     Yes, it was that bad. Probably couldn't have come up with a worse script to start the game (let's not challenge the Buffs, though): CU kicks off, Oregon makes quick drive down field for touchdown, CU fumbles ensuing kickoff, Oregon marches right in, 14-0, less than 3 minutes into the game. The offense hadn't even got to touch the ball yet.  It never got any better, the commentators again pointing out how the the Buffaloes don't seem to like momentum, finding a way to quickly kill it whenever they do something positive.  Even when they moved down the field when they finally got the ball, a third down pickup was nullified by not one, but THREE blocking penalties on the play-it took officials a few minutes to figure out what happened and then the Duckshad to decide which 15-yarder to choose. End of first quarter Oregon 28 CU 0 (not sure if they had 28 yards of total offense at the point). To open the second half they did put together two consecutive TD drives, sandwiched around  a defensive fumble recovery, and led by Nick Hirschman handing the ball off to Christian Powell; however, they were already down 56-0 and playing against Oregon reserves.  But don't worry, Oregon third-stringers were able to cover.  Oh yeah, and 1-7 officially kills any chance of a miraculous bowl bid.
   MVP update:  P Darragh O'Neill continued to punt well, keeping the ball high and deep or away from the incredibly dynamic D'Anthony Thomas, booming a couple very deep inside the 20. However, on one of those that landed and bounced, and looked like it would be downed inside the 10, was instead picked up by Thomas who went backwards, before juking Ray Polk and Derrick Webb (both defensive starters playing special teams) and trotting down the sidelines for an easy TD to make it 42-0 (O'Neill got plastered on a crack back block as he almost made the play). The Buffs are wasting three scholarships on kickers, two of whom are worthless (Zack Grossnickle kicked off for the ineffective Justin Castor again, but it wasn't pretty), while O'Neill plays for free and with the most heart on the team.
   Injury/Depth chart data: LT David Bahktiari did not play, with Ryan Dannewitz filling in admirably.  C Gus Handler got injured early, but I thought the offensive line looked better (again) with Munyer and Harris shifting over to C and RG (from RG and RT respectively) and Stephane Nembot coming in at RT.  WR Nelson Spruce was injured and the offense had very few passing options after he left.  It looks like LB Kyle Washington is still out and Brady Daigh was announced as the starter at LB but I never saw him or heard his name. Yuri Wright started at CB instead of Kenneth Crawley (who didn't see much time on defense, if at all, but returned two punts in the 4th).  Ray Polk still looked a little slow and rusty, missing a few plays he should and needs to make. I actually hope that Chidera Uzo-Diribe is still hurt, because that would give him an excuse as to why he got flatfooted by backup QB Bryan Bennett as he waltzed in for one of his TDs.  I think Samson Kafovalu has moved into the number one DT slot ahead of Nate Bonsu and T-Fr. Justin Solis and Tyler Henington (Josh Tupou did not make the trip). Tony Jones opened the game returning kicks, promptly muffed the first Duck kick, leading to their second TD in a minute, and didn't do much after that, although he did touch the ball a few times on offense.  T-Fr. Donta Abron looked decent carrying the ball against Duck scrubs and Josh Ford got his honorary carry.
   It is very possible that we were looking at CU's new starting QB during the second half.  Nick Hirschman was not perfect any means, but he did lead the Buffs on two scoring drives, albeit against reserves.  His decisions and passing were certainly no worse than Webb's have been (outside of the second half of the Wash St. game) and I believe he has earned the chance to start and lead the team (interception was not really his fault-his pass was a little behind, but catchable).  Embree admitted they will evaluate that position again this week. Supposedly Wood is still making some crucial mistakes, likely eye-locking on his first option and not looking off DBs, telegraphing a lot of his decisions. Conventional wisdom says that if you are going to throw a new QB out there, do it in front of a home crowd and not against one of the best defenses in the country; although I suppose they could even throw Webb out there one more time against Stanford, and maybe at Arizona as both should be blowout losses, before closing out the season at home against Washington and Utah.
   The only positive, again, is that a lot of young players got a lot of snaps against Pac-12 talents (even Oregon reserves are really good and fast).  In the second half, seniors hardly played, although they got Eric Richter some time in at RG and Doug Rippy was still out there trying to lead the young guys late on defense; Spruce's injury forced them to continue to use WR Dustin Ebner late also (don't think he's fast enough to carry water for Ducks).
   There were a few other positives amidst the ugly: LB Jon Major did have his best game in awhile, getting a little pressure on the QB and batting two passes.  LB Paul Vigo had another nice game.  Powell did have 121 yards.  Donta Abron did take a few kickoff out past the 25 yard line (teams are dropping the kickoffs short of the endzone because they want us to return it).  That's about all I can find.
  I can't imagine Stanford being much different, except that maybe we can hold them under fifty.

Covered

Even with a 41 point spread, USC was able to send its third string QB in to march down the field against mostly starters from CU's defense to kick a field goal that gave the Trojans the 44-point cushion, 50-6.  The Pac-12 Network commentators, while generally not that good either, were able to point out numerous times throughout the game, how the Buffaloes manage to follow any positive with a negative.  Therefore, I will give you a few, certainly not all the, negatives that are most annoying and glaring, before trying to pry a few positives from the ashes.
Why does it appear that the DBs are coached to never look back for the ball?!?!  On one of the early touchdowns, Crawley was stride for stride with Lee or Woods (hopin they both follow their QB to NFL), and Barkley threw a great ball that the receiver snagged-Crawley never looked back, but could have easily made the play if he had.  When they relieved Crawley with Jeff Hall, he did the same thing.  If they don't look back they will either give up the play or get called for pass interference.
It was awesome to see number 7 out there, but it was obvious he was not 100% physically and very rusty.  He was behind plays and overrunning them, and it didn't appear that he helped the secondary stay in position as they rarely were.
Tackling was simply pathetic, as no one was able to get a guy down by themselves and many guys got juked out of their shoes. Woodson Greer had a diving whiff that I am sure his eyes were closed for.
S Terrell Smith had a terrible game, starting with the absolutely pussy two-hand touch that allowed the SC receiver (again no idea which one it was as they were blurs all day) to jog down the sideline into the endzone, followed by many missed tackles (though he was by no means the only one guilty of that!) and at least one bad penalty.  Orms wasn't a whole lot better with some n blown coverages and missed tackles of his own.
It is interesting that the defensive line got so much praise on the telecast, but they have been incredibly inconsistent, and like the announcer kept repeating about the team in general, the d-line usually follows a big play by getting beat around the end or giving the QB time to throw a deep ball.  All three defensive groups have obviously been less than adequate, but the front seven have got to help out the secondary a little.
Jack Harris didn't make the trip, so Stephane Nembot got the start at RT and continued to play fairly well (I don't think he had any penalties this week.) Unfortunately, they chose to spell him with Ryan Dannewitz who was awful, including the goal line play he got bowled over and Webb was sacked and fumbled.  Sit Danno down and let Nembot get every snap he can!
The offense showed some signs of life but absolutely destroyed their redzone stats as they turned the ball over more than anything down there.  Spruce and McCulloch both let defenders muscle the ball away from them, Spruce for a pick.
The offense totaled six turnovers, three of each, four of them in the red zone, and led to a combined 29 points for USC.
RB Christian Powell looked good at times but had a horrible fumble.  Although he looks nice out there running the ball, he has never touched the ball that much in his career and is going to be a continued threat to drop the ball as well as get hurt, because he is just not used to it.
Okay, let's try for some positives...On offense, RB Tony Jones had some nice plays and they were able to get him the ball on some screens and gain some yards.  All the other RBs-Ford, Abron and Creer- got some snaps and at least almost a touch.
They really got TE Vincent Hobbs involved and he had a few nice grabs and runs.  EB mixed in some nice trick plays, but none went really long.  Gerald Thomas, almost got his first TD (catching but foot came down just out of bounds, and throwing but McCulloch couldn't take hold of the ball at the goal line), but they couldn't get him going any other time. Can't say a whole lot more on O.
On Defense, Samson Kafovalu got his second straight start and made some plays.  Wil Pericak had some nice plays, but also let a couple of tackles through his grasp. Chidera was still hurt and his snaps were limited.
On special teams Wil Oliver was 2-2 (whoopee!) and they didn't give up a touchdown.  Their kickoff return unit is weak and is better off when the ball is kicked out of the endzone.
Overall, they did play a ton of young guys who got some experience, especially on defense. The last drive was all second string on offense, including Connor Wood at QB, who also came in for one play earlier, when Webb lost his helmet.  [I can't believe that they don't have like three set plays-a run, a short pass and a longer pass-that Wood can automatically run if this happens, and it will likely happen at least once a game that Webb will come out for a play for a helmet or injury.]
Injuries: I don't think there were any new ones of note.  LB Brady Daigh did not make the trip but should be fine to play next week. I don't think CB Yuri Wright or LB Kyle Washington made the trip either.  LB Paul Vigo did play.  Not sure what is really up with P Darragh O'Neill's plant foot, as he was a game time decision, but they rarely had to punt, more often turning the ball over.
Next week is only going to be worse as Oregon will be favored by a few more, and will feel the pressure to at least match the 50 put up by SC and to cover the spread, however large it may end up being.

Southern Cal Pre-Mortem

The Colorado Buffaloes sit at 1-5, following two straight home blowout losses to mid-level Pac-12 teams. Now, they go on the road to the two top teams, the two most talented teams, the two fastest teams in the conference.  Amusingly, the Buffs are still riding a two-game conference road winning streak that should abruptly come to an end by early in the first half.  USC is a 40 to 41 point favorite, which might be hard to actually cover, but it’s hard to argue with that, and I don’t think I could put any money on it, even getting so many points.   [Note: Whatever I write this week about the prospects of the Buffs against USC, just change a few names, add a few “even faster”s, and you will have the preview for Oregon the following week.]

§  Burn the Redshirt: They won’t be burning Terrence Crowder’s redshirt as he tore his ACL again in practice and is done for the year.  Although it is doubtful they will play any more true frosh, those who have played are likely to play more.  Marques Mosley started again at safety with a nickel package and got his first sack, DE Samson Kafovalu got his first start, CB Kenneth Crawley continues to play well, we should see more and more of DTs Tyler Henington and Justin Solis (when healthy), CBs Yuri Wright and Jeff Hall, of course RB Christian Powell when he is healthy, and I would love to see more Donta Abron.  They tend to go to WR Gerald Thomas and TE Vincent Hobbs with a few designed plays early, but they have disappeared after that the last few weeks.

§  I love the fact that true frosh starting CB Kenneth Crawley called out the team because he thought some of his defensive comrades quit on the last ASU touchdown drive.  I didn’t see this drive as I was exiting the stadium in disgust, but I do not doubt his assessment, although Embree attributed it more to the shock of seeing LB Brady Daigh get carted off the field.  Regardless, we are looking at a four-year starter at corner and future captain of this team.

§  Injuries: There were a ton of injuries leading up to and during last week’s game including: LB Brady Daigh is sore but probable for this game!? TB/FB Christian Powell is also probable; DE Chidera Uzo-Diribe played through and ankle sprain and LT David Bahktiari did something to his lower leg during the ASU game but neither are listed on the injury report; LB Doug Rippy played some but was not really effective, is “full go” for USC; I don’t think that LB Jon Major is 100%; DE Samson Kafovalu, who got his first start against ASU also hyper-extended  his elbow and is listed as day-to-day, as is DT Justin Solis (concussion) , pass defense LBs Paul Vigo (foot) and Kyle Washington  (concussion) are questionable and doubtful resepctively, and CB Yuri Wright is also questionable with his concussion.  There may be a few more whose families have not signed the waiver form allowing the team to report on injuries.

Ray Polk is obviously the biggest question mark still (did you think I forgot about him?).  We thought he was going to be ready to go for ASU, but he was not in pads.  He is listed as questionable again, but says he definitely will play, although he is not 100% he feels he can still “help the team out.”   If he is actually pretty close to being full go then his return is huge for the defense and the secondary, just making sure guys are in the right spots pre-snap and making minor in-game adjustments he should be even better at observing from all his film study in the time off.  {Just a thought: If Polk still hadn’t been ready this week, could CU have pursued a medical 6^th year redshirt and brought him back next year with P-Rich?}

§  Game Captains: Pericak, Polk, Bahktiari, D. Webb will remain as captains.  There is no one else who deserves any recognition, and even these four are questionable at this point.  Except of course, team MVP, P Darragh O’Neill, to whom I would personally award a scholarship, and then send him out to do the coin flip alone.

§  Depth Chart moves: T-Fr. DE Samson Kafovalu got his first start, mainly because Chidera was originally listed as “out” (their situations are reversed this week).  Gus Handler was back at center but the offensive line still seems an obvious place to make some changes and play some younger guys like RT Stephane Nembot, or even G Jeromy Irwin, since they already burned his redshirt.  S Jered Bell didn’t play nearly as much as the last two games, with Mosley taking more snaps in the nickel packages.

§  The Buffs boast 14 Southern California natives who play or are on the two-deep, plus a handful more across their roster, very few of whom were recruited much by USC.  However, a lot of potential future recruits will be on hand for this game in general, or at least watching it.  The Greater Los Angeles area is still one of the team’s biggest recruiting areas.

§  It hasn’t been the Buffs’ best quarter either, but the Trojans have been awful in the third period, getting outscored 43-14.  If CU manages somehow to keep it close (although the game should be over by halftime), the third quarter will be huge, especially since, outside of the Stanford game, USC’s defense in particular, has been stellar in the fourth.

§  USC is also worse with penalties, averaging ten per game, mostly by offensive line and special teams with some delays of game.  CU is only averaging 6.5, and I must admit that they have not been as bad in this area, especially as the Pac-12 refs have made some very questionable calls.

If you didn’t get to read it in this morning’s Camera, here is Kyle Ringo’s take on how Colorado could actually win this game: http://www.buffzone.com/cu-news/ci_21813194/football-everything-has-go-right-cu-buffs-beat

When the Trojans have the ball:

§  Although so far they have not been other-worldly as some expected, the USC offense will have a chance to get itself on track against the Buffs.  [These next three sentences can just transfer to next week with different names to plug in.] They will gain a lot of yards and score a lot of points.  They have some of the best and fastest players in the country on offense. Google them if you want more info, but we will hear all about them while they are kicking extra points and waiting to kickoff: QB Matt Barkley, WRs Marquise Lee and Robert Woods, RBs Curtis McNeal and Silas Redd, TE Xavier Grimble.

§  Although the passing game has not been nearly as explosive as expected, the run game, especially of late has been very solid for the Trojans.  However, their receivers are the best group we have seen yet and I would be surprised if Barkley and Co. did not have a big day.

§  The CU secondary gets a lot of bad press, and although they are not that good  (much of this can be attributed to the absence of Ray Polk), the defensive line and pass rush give the opposing QB way too much time to find receivers.  If Matt Barkley has as much time as Taylor Kelly did, then he will have no problem getting four TDs to break Mat Leinart’s school record, and could probably get it in the first half.

§  Our CBs and safeties are our leading tacklers, meaning the boys up front are not getting enough themselves.  Kenneth Crawley has especially been counted on to do a lot, covering fast receivers, but still being one of the leading tacklers on the team.  I think safeties Parker Orms and Terrell Smith are also both up there in tackles.

§  DE Chidera Uzo-Diribe will likely attack a lot from the right side as left tackle is USC’s weakest offensive line link, having to replace All-American Matt Kalil with a rotation of true sophomore Audrey Walker and true frosh Max Tuerk, who was heavily recruited by Colorado.  Chidera should have a few eye-opening plays if he is healthy, but offenses can account for him and no one else is getting much push or pressure through the trenches.  He has also been much more effective during the first half, much less so in the second after the opposing offense has had a chance to adjust.

§  I am sure that CU defensive coaches have addressed the fact the fact USC players are very close to two records and are expecting to reach the this weekend so they do it at home.  WR Robert Woods only needs five catches to become the all-time leader while his QB, Matt Barkley, needs four TDs to surpass Matt Leinart’s 99.  It is hard to imagine them not getting both records (Barkley threw for SIX last year in Boulder).  I suppose if they get a few long runs and/or return TDs, Barkley could end up with only three passing.

§  USC is actually not that effective on third down, converting only about 30%, actually last in the Pac-12 (so I guess CU is not last in every category that doesn’t include “punting” in the title) and 112^th in the FBS.

§  Regardless, the CU defense will be tested constantly, with basic runs, lots of long passes, and I would expect SC to try a screen pass or two just to see what happens.  Limiting the Trojan offense to fewer points than Fresno St. would have to be considered a success.

When the Buffs have the ball:

§  The Trojan defense was expected to be the weak link of the team, but instead have been the strength.  They did return quite a few experienced players with NFL talent, including S TJ McDonald and CB Nickell Robey (both on Thorpe Award List) as well as LB Dion Bailey and DE Morgan Breslin.  I don’t see how Jordan Webb and the CU offense can do a whole lot, unless some crazy shit happens. [Same prospects against Oregon.]

§  They are 22^nd in the country in sacks (Breslin has 7 sacks, 12 TFL), while CU is dead last in sacks allowed-ouch!

§  It should be scary and ugly and I wouldn’t be surprised at all to see a back up QB, either because Webb sucks so bad, Webb gets knocked out of the game, or the score is so out of hand.  The biggest question on the offense is probably who comes in when, not if, one of those three things occurs.  [I can use that part next week again, unless Webb is out injured or loses the job.] Each of the last few weeks, Connor Wood has been announced as the number two, but Nick Hirschman has been the one to come into games since the three of them played in the Fresno St. game.

§  The CU coaches have simplified their game plan big time.  [Don’t think I can use that again because they can’t make it any simpler.]  That may be one of the reasons so many plays are blown up behind the line of scrimmage.  Even if they have made it basic to improve execution, EB still needs to mix up the plays somewhat so the defense doesn't know what’s coming and then maybe Webb and the RBs will have a little time and space to make things happen. Embree said they will focus on offense a little more during this mini-bye, as their ineptitude might be the biggest reason our defense suffers so much late in the game with so many three-and-out series.

§  Since Bienemy took over the offense, they have played 19 games and have scored 14 or 17 points in about half those games (9), plus three more in single digits, including the offensive-less deuce against Oregon.  They have only scored 24 or more 7 times.  Average points per game over that span? Not even three touchdowns at 20.1.  Opponents are averaging…let’s just say a lot more than that.

§  If the offensive line could give Jordan Webb a little time he might be able to hit some passes over the middle against the Monte Kiffin soft zone Tampa-2.  However, he will need some time to make the right reads, and he is not that great at leading his receivers on the crosses, which is what will be often needed.

§  O-line “coach” Steve Marshall did say that R-Fr. Stephane Nembot will play some at USC.  I don’t know if that means that he will be part of a planned rotation at RT, or if Marshall is just assuming that Nembot and many other backups will be playing in the second half.

§  The Trojans will probably have an extra eye on TE Nick Kasa, who has put together two nice statistical games in a row (11 catches for 239 yards and 3 TDs in last 3 games), and has gained some positive national attention for the Buffs, being named to the Mackey Award (best TE) Midseason Watch List.

§  If TEs Vincent Hobbs, Kyle Slavin and DaVaughn Thorton could get into the game plan some more, it would help Kasa.  It would be interesting to see them throw a bunch out of three TE formations.

§  It would be a nice time for T-Fr. WR Gerald Thomas to finally break one.  He has been close a few times, but has dropped a couple, Webb has been behind him a few times and he has just not quite been able to get through the seam when he has caught it.

§  I would expect USC to load the box, shut down whatever run game we try to muster, and dare Webb to pass against their talented, fast secondary. Our receivers are way too slow and won’t pose a problem even with straight up man coverage.  Nor will our TEs be able to do much against their safeties or linebackers. [This likely is exactly how we can expect an “even faster” team to attack our meager offense as well.]

§  The Buffs actually do rank 27^th nationally in one positive offensive category, converting 15-17 (88%) redzone opportunities, for second in the conference.  Unfortunately, I am guessing that their paltry 17 trips (less than three per game) is among the lowest rankings in both the Pac-12 and country.

§  Basically, we are just hoping to avoid a shutout. [Same goal next week.]

Special Teams:

§  P Darragh O’Neill, team MVP (20^th in punting yardage in nation, although only 4^th in Pac-12).  Say no more [although I will say this again next week and down the line].

§  Okay, a little more: Kickoff coverage is now dead freakin’ last in the nation (120^th) after that ridiculous return for a TD by ASU to open the second half.

§  Overall, this should be a massacre.  The Buffs have never beaten the Trojans (0-6) and there is little or no reason to think they can break that trend this weekend.  Hopefully, there will be no records shattered and no major injuries.  [Again, the first and last line of this little bullet section can probably stay exactly the same next week.]

§  If you truly think you can handle a little more:

Stuart’s TIPS: http://www.cuatthegame.com/2012/coloradousc-preview/

Plati’s CU Game Notes: http://www.cubuffs.com/fls/600/gameday/usc12/cunotes.pdf?DB_OEM_ID=600

USC Game Notes: http://www.cubuffs.com/fls/600/gameday/usc12/uscnotes.pdf?DB_OEM_ID=600

Sacrificed to Sun Devils

     As I walked into a basically empty Folsom stadium twenty minutes before kickoff on Thursday, the first thing I looked for was number 7, and was immediately disappointed to see Ray Polk standing off to the side with no pads on under his jersey.  While the seats did eventually fill up pretty well, and the Buffs made a game of it before halftime, the absence of their senior leader safety (among MANY other things) was way too much to overcome in the second half.  The dichotomy between the last 24 seconds of the first half and the first 11 of the second are a microcosm of the entire season:  No matter what positives they achieve, they always find a way to outdo themselves with negatives shortly after. 

      Without Polk in the first half, I was tense, waiting for the flood gates to break open, but the defense only gave a few big plays and the offense actually put together two nice drives between sputter-outs, and the much maligned kickoff coverage unit forced and recover a fumble, leading to a FG to pull within three, and all the momentum seemingly in the Buffs corner.  However, I was still definitely tense at halftime, talking to the folks around me; we were ecstatic to have made it a game, and that we would certainly "take it".  However, were worried what Arizona would do with the ball coming out of the locker rooms.  Our fears were absolutely justified as the Sun Devils took the kickoff straight down the east sideline and stabbed a pitchfork into Ralphie AND Chip (okay not really that last part but you get the point).

Here’s a few notes and observations from the game…

§  Besides Polk, a ton of guys were out, even though they were supposed to be as healthy as they have been since the opener.  Christian Powell did not play at TB and we could have used his size for sure.  On defense, they were also missing both LBs Kyle Washington and Paul Vigo, both converted safeties who have played a ton lately in nickel and dime packages (which are out there more often than not), as well as CB Yuri Wright and DT Justin Solis.

§  LB Doug Rippy was back, but did not play a whole lot.  Jon Major has looked slow all year, not the Jon Major of the past.  Neither senior LB has looked 100% at any time this season.  Woodson Greer III ended up playing a lot and seemed to do well getting a sack and some nice tackles. [LB Brady Daigh was carted off the field late in the game, but appears to have no signs of serious injury.]

§  I didn't notice, but it was reported that T-Fr. DE Samson Kafovalu started the game, although I have yet to hear his name called or see him in on a play.  Chidera Uzo-Diribe was actually listed as “out” with a nagging ankle sprain, but did play in limited capacity, even adding a sack.  Juda Parker has played only sparingly and remains a puzzling player.  This defensive line is by far the team's biggest liability (and that is saying a lot considering the performance of the offensive line and wide receivers).  Until they improve, the secondary will be running around, chasing very fast players and wearing down by the time the fourth quarter rolls around.  Even is we can keep it close that long, the defense can't keep the dike plugged forever.

§  Kenneth Crawley actually said he felt some guys quit toward the end of the game.  However, Embree attirubuted the last ASU touchdown drive to general weariness and the after effects of seeing a teammate carted off on a stretcher (Brady Daigh could even play at USC).

§   You couldn't tell that ASU was playing a bunch of players recently-switched-from-offense on defense, as the Buffs had only fleeting moments of moderate success on offense…again.

§The offensive line continues to be pathetic, hardly giving any time to Jordan Webb, who needs the time and no pressure to make good decisions (although he had a few very questionable passes, I don’t think he had a turnover for once!), instead of getting chased and crushed on most plays.  Nor could they open up much space for the RBs to run.  Steve Marshall needs to be replaced (Cal fans are laughing so hard right about now, but they do need a good chuckle as they suck also).

§  Not convinced that Handler is the best choice at center. I was very disappointed not to see Stephane Nembot get any time at RT.  We need for him to develop and the line is awful regardless, so let’s play him and maybe some other guys.

§  Josh Ford got into the game and had a nice carry, and then disappeared again.  Malcom Creer came into the game to be part of a ridiculous double reverse that took so long to develop it seemed like all eleven ASU defenders were in the backfield to make the tackle.  Otherwise it was Tony Jones, who was not able to do a whole lot except for one drive where they ran a nice little play a few times for gains.  Does EB get lost in all the chaos of the game and forget who he has?  I would love to see Josh Ford at the beginning of the game when they do not need to pass most of the time.

§  T-Fr. Vincent Hobbs got involved a little in the game early but that was about it.  Nick Kasa had another nice TD and a few other grabs, leading the team.  However, there was one play Chad Brown (KOA sideline reporter) observed where Kasa left the huddle with his hands out looking back at Webb, obviously confused as to the play, and sure enough, when Webb went back to pass, he looked Kasa’s way, but he wasn’t where he was supposed to be, and Webb had to throw it away.

§  “Double Deuce” Nelson Spruce was effectively taken out of the game by ASU.  He only had a few catches and I think was the only receiver they were really concerned about.  Tyler McCulloch would have been a better fit at one of the New Mexico schools that didn’t bother to recruit him. WR is the position where the team is most lacking as they are way to slow to compete in the Pac-12.  Gerald Thomas has some raw talent, but he and Nelson Spruce are both number three guys at best.  They will need someone else (greyshirt or true frosh) to join P-Rich out wide.

§  There are still way too many plays where it seems the opposing defense know exactly what is coming and blow it up in the backfield.  There were quite a few untouched defenders in the backfield and many TFLs, in addition to the five sacks.  There were also not one, but two bubble screens that were easily broken up and probably actually should have been pick sixes (combination bad play call, bad blocking out wide and bad decision by Webb to release the ball.

§  Embree will meet with offensive coaches to try and find some solutions to the telegraphing tendencies they are giving off, as well as trying to find some way to consistently gain some yards and extend drives more often.;

§  Coaches keep saying that Connor Wood is healthy and the backup QB, but when garbage time came, it was Nick Hirschman that entered the game again.

§  On defense, the Buffs were porous again.  As with the rest of the team, even they managed a good play, it was quickly overshadowed by a mistake. (i.e. when the secondary made a third down stop but defensive “leader” LB Derrick Webb was nailed for a pretty blatant hit on the QB).  They would get a sack, but then get burned on a third-and-long.

§  QB Taylor Kelly more often than not literally had almost ten seconds to move around the pocket, look for receivers and find one or run. While the front seven had 2 sacks, they were beaten repeatedly by screen passes, as if they were just invented this week and no one on our defense had even seen one before.  At least twice, five (and many other times 2 or 3) CU were defenders were running untouched to Kelly, with no regard for the huge smile on his face, and no one recognizing that the RB who let them through without a block, is waiting patiently behind them to catch and easy soft pass and spring down the open field.  It was getting comical to watch them fall for over and over and over…

§  Embree even said that the defense has played generally well enough to win, but that it is too hard for them to overcome so many three and outs (four in a row I think in the second half to let ASU run away with it).

§  In actuality, I think the secondary played relatively well, covering for long stretches while we got no pass rush, but could not sustain.  The CBs did not give nearly as big of a cushion, but they still do not look back for the ball when they are downfield (not enough hands on coaching from a DB coach who is way overmatched as a coordinator as well).  Henderson is solid and Crawley is going to be really good once he learns and adopts a little more fundamental technique.

§  The screens and a few other big plays were much more the responsibility of the LBs, who were supposed to be the strength of the D this year, but they are conceding the middle of the field.  Major looked awful running after an RB who easily got behind him for a score.

§  S Parker Orms had a quiet game, outside of one stupid roughing call out of bounds.  T-Fr. Marques Mosley played quite a bit and got his first career sack, but was also beaten for a TD.  After having started and played a lot the last two games, Jered Bell only played a little.  They really miss Polk here, but are getting good experience for next year and beyond.

§  Nate Bonsu blocked ASU’s first PAT.  Kenneth Crawley did very little with the few punts he received and no one seems to be able to do anything with kickoffs-they did get one out to about the thirty, but are still too often giving up free yards by catching the ball in the endzone and trying to run it out. 

§  P Darragh O’Neill (who is still without a scholarship I think) continues to be the bright spot on a weak team.  His booming punts keep the games from getting even more out of hand.

§  I am not seeing a whole lot of progress or much to be hopeful about at this point.  The next two weeks are going to be slaughters on the road.  It would be a complete surprise if both USC and Oregon didn’t score at least 50 each against us and 100 would not be out of the question.  They need to get healthy and not lose anyone else.  No matter what happens, this team will have to do some serious soul-searching when they come home to face Stanford to start November.

Arizona St. Sun Devil Blackout Preview

While the Buffs limped into their first bye week ever under Embree, reeling from a much lower than expectations 1-4 start, their next opponent cruised into their week off on the opposite end of the spectrum, having surpassed all but the most optimistic preseason prognostications at 4-1.  This will be a Blackout game, the crowd and team dressed in all black, including helmets, under the Thursday night Folsom Field lights, with CU hosting the South Division leading Arizona St. Sun Devils, led by new coach Todd Graham.  This is part of the new Pac-12 TV deal that has them airing conference matchup almost every Thursday evening for a national TV audience on ESPN (with most teams getting a bye week before, allowing for two longer weeks in preparation and recovery for this and the following game, although ASU will host Oregon next week before getting their second mini-bye).  CU is actually undefeated on Thursday night games (USC was on a Friday last year), having beaten Stanford in 1990 and West Virginia in 2008.  The Buffs are 23-point underdogs but they do have to play the game.

§  Game Captains: It now appears that Embree and the team have settled on Sr. DE/DT Wil Pericak, Sr. S Ray Polk, Jr. LT David Bahktiari and Jr.LB Derrick Webb as captains, as they have walked out together the last three games and each has been a captain for four of the first five games.

§  Depth Chart moves/Injuries: Players returning from injury could have a huge impact on this game.  Although they had as many as 12 guys who probably would not have played last Saturday had there been a game, Embree said they should be as healthy as they have been since they opened the season.  The most anticipated return from injury in a long time is finally near: Sr. S Ray Polk is finally close to being recovered from his severe high ankle sprain against csu (they were leading 14-3 at the time and the defense probably doesn't play nearly as badly with him in there, then who knows what could have happened…?) Along with the return of LB Doug Rippy, the defense should be bolstered quite a bit.

§  As of Tuesday, most everyone is listed as probable or day-to-day.  RB Christian Powell is one who may not be able to go with a deep hip bruise suffered early against UCLA.  T-Fr. DT Justin Solis is also not sure if he will play. C Gus Handler should also be good to go, but it is unclear if he has lost his job to Daniel Munyer, or who will start on the other two right slots.  Everyone else will have had a few extra days (and will also get a few more after this game before the trip to LA) to heal up nagging bumps, bruises and other injuries. 

§  I am also curious to see if there are any other surprises with a few extra days of practice to get someone ready.

§  From Plati’s “Obscure Stat of the Week”: A total of 21 freshmen have played in the first five games, 13 by true frosh. But a more telling number are the play counts, especially on defense. While freshmen (all true) have accounted for only 12 starts defensively, they have played 1,031 snaps, or just over 25 percent of all the plays on defense. Seniors have accounted for just 602 snaps (14.8 percent), while juniors have seen the most action (1,662 plays, or 40.8 percent). Sophomores have thus played 775 snaps, so underclassmen have been in for 1,806 plays (44.4 percent). CB Kenneth Crawley has seen the most action (362 snaps), with four other frosh playing 145 snaps or more.

§  Here’s some scary stats from Stuart (see more below): “Arizona State is first in the Pac-12 in pass defense, total defense, scoring defense, sacks, and tackles for loss…Colorado, meanwhile, has fallen below the college football Mendoza line (100th or worse) in no fewer than eight categories, including rushing offense, total offense, scoring offense, pass defense, total defense and scoring defense.”  I love the “Mendoza line”, although not being so strongly connected with it.

§  He also points out that ASU comes right back next Thursday to play Oregon and the best thing we have going for us is that they could be looking ahead a little.  I also listened to an ASU podcast (hey, I spend a lot of time walking the dogs) and they acted as if a win over the Buffs is a sure thing, probably talking more about Oregon than CU.  It’s kinda sad but their overconfidence could be our best hope.

When the Sun Devils have the ball:

§  ASU has put up a lot of yards (456.2/game) and points (38.4) and is yet another team that should enjoy watching game film of the CU defense, licking their chops in preparation for the game.   They run a fast paced zone option read with a lot of misdirection that puts a lot of pressure on defenses. They also start strong, outscoring opponents 56-10 in the first quarter.  The Buffs defense has to stick to their assignments and tackle well.  They certainly can’t afford to start out slow in this one or it will be Fresno St. again.

§  The defense supposedly worked heavily on tackling during their few extra days of practice so we will see if it makes any difference against another offense that will spread them out and force each defender to cover their assignment and wrap up.  When one guy whiffs, it too often leads to a big play for the opponents.

§  ASU has been very efficient, and they have not committed a turnover in Pac-12 play (only 2 games but…).  They are extremely good on first down, running the ball two-thirds of the time but are very effective (not obvious) when they choose to pass instead.  Greg Brown will be on his toes all night, trying to keep up with this offense.

§  The Sun Devils have three young QBs that would probably start for the Buffs were they on this roster.  So. Taylor Kelly, who is leading the Pac-12 in passing efficiency, surprisingly won the job, but R-Fr. Michael Eubank plays some to keep himself sharp and Kelly fresh; So. Mike Bercovici also has talent, but can’t get on the field with the other two there.

§  Whoever is lined up behind center has a lot of solid targets to throw the ball to, including TE Chris Coyle (26-338 yards, 2 TDs) and 4 receivers averaging at least 40 yards per game.

§  ASU has a three-pronged rushing attack, led by strong experienced back in Cameron Marshall, although he has not fared that well the past few games; speedy frosh DJ Foster has gained the most yards from scrimmage and Marion Grice has been a total surprise.  They will likely look to get those three involved early in order to regain their early season rushing form and rest their defense a little.

§  Everyone on the Buffs D has its work cut out for them.  Each group needs to execute, cover their assignment and wrap up when they get a hand on the ball carrier.  If Ray Polk and Doug Rippy are indeed back, then they need to show their stuff and lead the defense from the get go.  Any rustiness from them or an early miscue from someone else, and this offense could steamroll this defense.

When the Buffs have the ball:

§  The Sun Devil defense has started the same 11 each week (although their depth is very thin with a few offensive players moving to defense), is a generally experienced group of mostly juniors and seniors, and leads the conference in scoring defense, having only given up 13.6 points per game through five games (that’s 68 total points, about what Fresno St. put on us in one game).  By the way, in case you were wondering, CU’s offense is last in the conference in scoring, with only 21.6 per game.

§  DE Will Sutton is a beast that has been driving opposing offenses crazy during the beginning of the season, wreaking a ton of havoc in the backfield with 6.5 sacks and a few more TFL. We will be sick of hearing his name called and seeing his #90 in our offensive backfield.  A little undersized for even an end at 6’ 2, 270 pounds, he has an incredibly quick first step and will need to be accounted for every play by Jordan Webb and the entire line, as well as the TEs and RBs, who will be chipping him often.  And if he isn’t problem enough, DEs Carl Bradford (4.5) and Junior Onyeali (4) have combined for 9 ½ more sacks.  They will show all kinds of looks and blitz anyone from anywhere.  If you were curious, CU is giving up an average of 4.4 sacks per game.

§  ASU Sr. LB Brandon Magee leads the team in tackles and is the leader of the defense, controlling the middle of the field like a solid middle LB should.  We could be sick of his name and number as well.

§  However, their one chink in the armor has been the run game, giving up almost 140 yards a game.  The Buffs would do well to attack them on the ground, hopefully mix in some play action with a few surprises, and keep with it, even if they struggle a little early.  It will likely be Powell first (if he plays), followed by some Jones, and I would expect a small dose of a third back, but it’s anyone’s guess as to whether that is Ford, Abron or whatever happened to Creer?

§  QB Jordan Webb needs to make smart, quick decisions and not take sacks or at least not so many hits.  They supposedly have worked to improve their timing and chemistry on (especially RB) screen plays, that Tyler Hansen and Rodney Stewart were so successful at completing for big yards, but that Webb, Jones and the others have not taken advantage of so far this year.

§  Webb has come out of each game for at least a play.  If he needs to be relieved for any reason this week it should be Connor Wood coming into the game.

§  Interestingly, the Sun Devils have five players who have moved from offense to defense in the past few months, including a few in the secondary, with a few playing quite a bit, especially in nickel and dime packages.  This is another area the Buffs might be able to go after a little, but they will need to do so on quick plays and routes, as Webb likely won’t have much time to sit back and scan the field.

§  The offensive line will have its job cut out for it though, and we don’t know exactly who will be joining Bahktiari and Lewis from the left side.  It sounds like Handler will play; it also has seemed like they want to see more of Nembot, so does that mean that Munyer or Harris is the odd man out?  So far, this group has given up the second highest number of sacks in the nation.

§  The pedestrian wide receiver corps needs more plays and might be aided by some unexpected help.  Tony Jones lined up as a wideout a few times against UCLA and will likely do so in the future.  DD Goodson, who is small for quick and shifty, could also get a shot. With five games under their belts and a bye week to prepare, maybe this can be the breakout week for one of the true frosh, WR Gerald Thomas and/or TE Vincent Hobbs (only four games), who is the fastest TE.

§  The Buffs have not been able to make the big plays with only a few  to date, with Tony Jones’ 84-yard TD (WSU) and Christian Powell’s 64-yarder (Sac St.) the only runs; the wide receivers have only had one catch of over 35 yards between them; the TEs have provided a few big plays, including Kasa’s 70-yarder; overall though, especially in the explosive Pac-12, with a young defense and a weak offensive line that cannot sustain drives, the Buffs (read: Bienemy!) need to figure out a way to make some big plays, preferably early.  They have tried a few creative things with Gerald Thomas, but teams know he is really our only speed guy and have been able to stop him fairly well. 

§  They have also been awful on third down, converting only 2 of 15 vs. UCLA and 25-77 (32%) on the season.  They have a really high number of three-and-outs, and have trouble converting really important 3^rd downs, which has persuaded them to go for it quite a few times fourth down, I think partly due to Embree’s annoyance that they didn’t get the job done on third.  This comes down to playcalling and execution.

§  One area of possible strength for the offense has been red zone conversion, scoring on 12 or 14 trips inside the 20 (85.7%), with 11 touchdowns.  Of course, that is less than 3 trips in the red zone per game, without many big plays to supplement the scoring.

§  My first play call:[This assumes the services of Christian Powell, although he wouldn’t even have to be 100.] Lineup in Jumbo 3TE formation, Scott Fernandez outside RT, with Kasa covering him, and Slavin outside Bahktiari on the left, with Powell at TB and Wood at FB.  There is so much talk about ASU being weak in the rush defense and the Buffs needing to establish the run, sell the whole play as a handoff to Powell over the right side, but play action to Fernandez, who is known as a blocker, who can chip and quickly peel off.  The LBs should definitely bite, and if a safety does and Scottie catches it…he’ll probably be tackled, but for a decent gain.  Second play? Basically the same thing but switch Kasa over to the left and actually run that way.  I’ll let EB take it from there.

Special Teams:

§  ASU’s kickers have not been that good, hitting barely 50% of their FGs.  However, teams haven’t relied on FGs that much against the Buffs, getting into the endzone more often than not (literally).  Wil Oliver actually gives CU a slight edge in this area.

§  MVP (Most Valuable Punter at the very least) Darragh O’Neill also has the edge of his counterpart, no matter who it is, based on sheer raw leg strength (technique is still to be questioned quite a bit but the result is generally affective) and tenacity covering his kicks.  Plus, CU is actually ranked 36^th in the country in net punting (I believe their highest national ranking in any major team statistic category).

§  Arizona St. has a good weapon in their P Josh Hubner, who is adept at pinning the ball deep inside the 20, having done it 10 times already this year, after 24 last season.  QB Taylor Kelly has also hit three nice pooch kicks (one for 40 yards) that have landed inside the 20.

§  ASU’s punt coverage has been shaky, giving up a lot of return yardage, even though their punter has a solid 45+ average.  Maybe this is Crawley’s big stage to finally break one.

§  A big play here would really help boost the team and the evening crowd, but I would definitely settle for solid play, not giving up and big plays and just keeping the field position battle close.

§  Overall, the Buffs are really young and inexperienced, and not really that talented, and therefore a very reasonable 23 point underdog.  They must have more than a few things (turnovers, bounces, calls, weird plays) go their way to win this game.  It happened in the last seven minutes at WSU so I guess anything is possible.  Let’s pull out all our black attire and fill the stadium with loud Buff fans to keep the stadium rocking from Ralphie’s run all the way to the end of the game!

§  If you are a glutton for punishment, here’s a little more for you:

Stuart’s TIPS: http://www.cuatthegame.com/2012/coloradoarizona-state-preview/

Plati’s CU Game Notes: http://www.cubuffs.com/fls/600/gameday/asu12/cunotes.pdf?SPSID=3843&SPID=255&DB_LANG=C&DB_OEM_ID=600

Arizona St. Game Notes: http://www.cubuffs.com/fls/600/gameday/asu12/cunotes.pdf?SPSID=3843&SPID=255&DB_LANG=C&DB_OEM_ID=600

House of Sparky ASU Preview-we can only hope the preface is true (make sure you click on the “this” link and may the force be with you): http://www.houseofsparky.com/2012/10/8/3471852/asu-football-opponent-first-look-colorado-buffaloes

Bye Week System Check

   We have reached the almost halfway point of the season, with a bye week to ponder what could have been and what could still come to pass, as well as a little peek into the future.  The Buffs sit at a paltry 1-4, although they are even at 1-1 in the Pac-12.  However, no one is kidding ourselves that prospects for the near future look bleak at best, as the slate of upcoming difficult matchups are actually are worse than the midseason gauntlet the team went through in the middle of 3-10 last year.  They have yet to come anywhere near putting in a complete game where they give four full quarters of effort.  And it ain’t getting’ any easier! After the Thursday night game vs. ASU, the Buffs go on the road to both USC and Oregon (as if the results in Folsom weren’t bad enough), before coming home to face Stanford to kick off November.  Although many had hoped or even expected the win-loss number to be reversed right now, that was probably unrealistic to expect, and this reality just did not seem conceivable either.  Did we overestimate the talent?  Or the coaching?  Underestimate the competition?  Probably all, with a heavy dose of the middle.  As it stands right now, the team is extremely young and desperately needing the experience they are getting early and on the fly.  This can only bode well for the future as they will actually return a heavily game-experienced lineup next season, only losing a few contributing seniors.  Meanwhile, after a few tough days, the players are getting a couple of days off while the coaches hit the road recruiting.

      Kyle Ringo of The Camera was able to find a few positives from the dismal beginning to the season, and I have to admit he has some good points, although they don’t make up for the shortfalls we have had to witness.

http://www.buffzone.com/cu-news/ci_21676715/finding-positives-cu-footballs-1-4-start

Trying to keep Kyle’s positive attitude inmind, here is a snapshot of the team and each position group, where they stand for the rest of 2012 and how they might project moving toward 2013.

§  Burn the Redshirt: The Buffs have played 13 true freshmen, and barring injury, that number should remain constant.  However, those 13 have played large roles, earning 15 total starts, including CB Kenneth Crawley in every game, and FB Christian Powell taking over the tailback job.  All 13 have contributed in multiple ways as well, most playing special teams with Crawley returning (or fair catching) almost every punt so far, and CBs Marques Mosley and Jeff Hall have shared kickoff return duties with RB Donta Abron.  On top of that they have also played 8 more redshirt frosh, including WR Nelson Spruce and RT Stephane Nembot. This group should provide a solid foundation for the future, but will still need additional talent around them.

§  2013 Verbal Commits: CU has 14 committed recruits for next year, including the recently committed 3-star DE Marcus Loud, who shunned Missouri and had offers from across the country.  While none of them are huge names, QB Sefo Liafu and TE Mitchell Parsons (is still talking to other schools though) have been given 4-stars, and many of the rest are highly rated 3-stars that the coaches are trying to stock the roster with to provide general depth. Supposedly, Sefo is looking great so far as a senior, is firmly committed to CU, and has been working on Parsons to stay with the Buffs.

§  In addition to those three, they have also received verbal commitments from 2 wide receivers, 2 DBs, 5 more offensive linemen (you can never have too many big bodies), an RB (Denver East’s Philip Lindsay) and the first LB in awhile. Unfortunately, Loud is the only defensive linemen commit so far and that is still a definite position of need (although they do have DE Kisime Jagne greyshirting).  Hopefully this class will not be counted on quite as much next year as their two predecessors have been, and this year’s frosh and sophs (next year’s sophs and juniors) will make up the majority of the playing roster for 2013.

§  Game Captains: Embree started the year saying he would name weekly captains, however, it now appears that they have settled on Sr. DE/DT Wil Pericak, Sr. S Ray Polk, Jr. LT David Bahktiari and Jr.LB Derrick Webb, each of whom have been captains for four of the first five games, and for the last three.

§  Major Depth Chart moves: Outside of injuries, the biggest roster move was Christian Powell opening the Sacramento St. game as the tailback.  T-Fr. DT Josh Topou’s play allowed Pericak to move outside and DEs Kirk Poston and Juda Parker have moved up and down the depth chart there, but it looks like Poston is settling up top and getting more playing time than the nationally recruited all-star Parker. Otherwise, injuries have caused numerous shifts on the offensive line and in the secondary. 

§  Injuries: Twelve players were held out of practices this week, and Embree said most of those probably would not have played if there was a game Saturday.  However, he also said that the team will be as healthy as they have been all season going into the ASU game next Thursday night.  S Ray Polk’s high ankle sprain early in the second quarter of the csu game left the already shaky defense in disarray and they could reeeeeaaalllly (pleeeeeeeassssse!) benefit from his return.  We would have thought that we would miss Doug Rippy more, but he was never really healthy to start the year, so he will only be a boost now.  C Gus Handler was hurt, then his backup Brad Cotner, leading to Daniel Munyer (last year’s center to start the season) moving in from RG and everyone shifting over.  All of these moves have of course allowed many others to gain valuable experience.  At this point it appears that everyone is almost back to 100%.

§  The CU Offense has had a few drives where it looked like a well-oiled machine, but those moments have been fleeting, and have only shown up once a game or so.  More often than not, the offense has given us three-and-outs (haven’t read the exact number but it has got to be high), especially after a big play by the defense, when they have rarely capitalized.  The struggles are numerous and there is no single position or group to point the finger at and all must improve drastically if the team is to show any progress improvement in their record.

§  Going into the season, QB was the most up in the air position but transfer Jordan Webb grabbed control of the reins quickly, and although there have been some tough times and lots of criticism, he appears to be their best option and neither Connor Wood nor Nick Hirschman seem to have what it takes to succeed, and if they haven’t done it yet, it is unlikely that outside of mop-up duty and injury relief, either will ever play much in a Buff uniform (which is disappointing, especially in the case of Wood).  Webb should be the guy next year and will be backed up and followed by one of the young guys, either current redshirting frosh Shane Dillon or verbally committed 3-to-4 star Wasshington product Sefo Liafu.  This position is definitely a question mark for the future in asking how good can Webb lead the team for two years and how will his successors do?  Or is Colorado still going to go a few more years with slightly above mediocre play as the best to expect from its QB?

§  Part of the problem at QB is the offensive line, which was expected to be a relative strength, returning a lot of experience, if only one senior.  So far they have been overmatched and outplayed by every defensive front they have played, allowing a ton of sacks and a ton of other hits on the QB.  It is a wonder Webb has been able to take as many snaps as he has.  They have not been much better in the run game, even Powell’s performance was mostly his doing and not the holes that were opened for him.  On top of all the problems, injuries at center have forced some juggling and nobody knows who will start at center (Handler or Munyer), which leaves the RG waiting for Munyer or Jack Harris, and the LT looks like it may have been taken over by R-Fr. Stephane Nembot (who hopefully won’t ever relinquish it).  They do have depth here and return everyone but super sub Ryan Dannewitz, along with a solid frosh in Jeromy Irwin and more recruits committed for next year.  It seems like this group has a decent amount of talent and a lot of potential, but Steve Marshall’s coaching ability is definitely to be questioned.

§  Another position that affects the QB is the WR, where we are just not fielding a Pac-12 caliber corps, especially in the speed department.  Our best receiver (until P-Rich returns next spring) is Nelson Spruce, who has good hands and runs nice routes, but would be only a fourth or fifth wideout on almost any other team in the conference.  T-Fr. Gerald has some potential, but has not yet grasped the entire offense, does not yet run crisp routes and whose speed is probably just a little above average in the Pac-12, but maybe things start to click in the second half of the season.  Tyler McCulloch has the size you would like to see, and some decent number so far, but has been woefully inconsistent on routes and catching the ball, and has yet to really be as big of a factor in the redzone as he was expected to be.  Nobody else is really contributing that much.  Ebner is a nice story but that’s really about it, Keenan Canty has disappeared in his new number 12 jersey, and that literally is everyone else.  They need a serious upgrade here and the two greyshirts and a few other true frosh will certainly be in the mix next season.

§  TE is becoming a pleasant surprise, with a few guys finally starting to catch on. Sr. Nick Kasa has been an overall disappointment but he is making a solid contribution as a senior.  He is backed up by So. Kyle Slavin and T-Fr. Vincent Hobbs, who both have great pass-catching skills and are getting better at the rest of it, hopefully to become a dynamic duo for the next couple of years.  Scott Fernandez provides some size for the Jumbo formation with three TEs and will sneak a TD catch at some point this season I think.  They also have two redshirting who could help in the future as well as one wavering 4-star in-state prospect that they need to keep in the fold (Parsons). Embree has got to be generally pleased with what he sees here.

§  It is hard to truly judge the RBs (although we can probably say there are not fantastic) because of the way they rotate and their inconsistent performance so far, which are at least in part due to the line’s inadequacies.  Christian Powell and Tony Jones offer a nice one-two change of speed combo, but nobody understand EB’s reasoning behind who is out there and what plays he is calling.  They seem to have a lot of solid number two backs, but no one who is that every week game breaker that teams fear.  Part of the problem here is that their position coach is too busy worrying about the problems on the rest of the offense and cannot possibly gives his RBs the time they need with his experience and expertise.

§  “It might be charitable to say the Buffs are struggling defensively,” wrote Kyle Ringo of The Camera, about the group that has been equally as disappointing as the offense, making some nice plays on occasion, but rarely the big stop (and even the few times they have, the offense didn’t back it up). They have also given up way too many plays over 20 yards, including some ridiculously long TDs like those in the Fresno St. debacle.  We don’t even want to list the statistics and conference or national rankings. 

§  Although being out of position has been an ongoing issue for many of the young players, missed tackles and weak technique has been the biggest culprit, leading to a large percentage of team’s total yardage.  Running to the ball, taking the correct angle, wrapping up the ball carrier and sound technique across the board (hips, shoulders, eyes, head up) have most certainly been the main areas of focus, practice and coaches’ yelling this week in preparation for ASU.

§  The line has also been the biggest liability on defense as everything starts in the trenches and offensive lines are generally winning this battleground, picking rushing yardage when they need it, and giving ample time to their QBs to find open receivers.  Of the four main DTs, three are true freshmen (Josh Topou, Tyler Henington, Justin Solis), and of the five main DEs, two are sophomores and another is a true frosh (Samson Kafovalu).  They have a lot of potential, but outside of Topou, they all need to put on some weight as well. 

§  Sr. Wil Pericak is the unquestioned leader of this line and defense and has moved outside most of the time, opening room for the frosh DTs.  Jr. DE Chidera Uzo-Diribe is coming into his own and drawing  a lot more double teams while he has still picked up five sacks.  Jr. DT Nate Bonsu is finally healthy and taking up space, if not making huge plays, in the middle.  So. DE Kirk Poston has been a pleasant surprise, especially the last two games, however Juda Parker has been disappointing and has not progressed enough to get on the field much.  They still have a few more linemen red or grey shirting, but only have one committed so far.  This group is a little thin still and makes me wonder if they can develop enough to compete without Pericak next year.

§  The linebackers are a puzzling group, in that they are very deep and have a lot of talent, but I am not sure if they have figured out how to get the most out of them as a unit yet.  They have by no means been bad, but they have not shown up as the leaders of the defense, controlling the middle of the field, and making up for some of the youth and deficiencies in front of and behind them.  Frankly, the secondary has had to make way too many tackles; we really shouldn’t know how good of a tackler Crawley is because he should not have to have done it so much while he is trying to learn his general assignments and cover fast wideouts.  Doug Rippy should return for ASU and you would think that is a major plus, but they have been rotating five linebackers a lot already (Jon Major, Derrick Webb, Brady Daigh, Kyle Washington and Paul Vigo) and I am not sure how they mix him in as well.  Vigo played out of mind against WSU, but maybe was affected by a concussion against UCLA, as he was not nearly as effective.  He and Washington, both former safeties, give them an added dimension in pass coverage but they give up a little size.  There is a lot of depth here and they are coached by Cabral so it will remain a decent to strong group no matter what.

§  Although the group of four freshmen in the secondary has played admirably, at times no one really knew what was going on and safeties Parker Orms, Terrell Smith (both juniors) and So. Jered Bell just don’t provide the knowledge, experience or leadership that Sr. Ray Polk can and does. His return should increase the productivity and intensity of the entire defense as well as allow Orms to concentrate full-time on the nickel slot where he is most effective.  This position is in decent shape, will return a lot of experience next year and Mosley played well and had an interception in his time and should be a solid contributor for the next few years.

§  The cornerbacks are all extremely young but are learning on the fly and performing quite well.  The veteran of the group, So. Greg Henderson returned from his ankle injury and made some plays against UCLA.  Crawley has been improving each week, starting every game and tackling well; I just don’t think he has had to rely on much technique in his high school career and is trying to take it all in now.  Fellow frosh Yuri Wright played well in his time filling in also and I would expect to see more of him as the season goes on.  Jeff Hall hasn’t palyed nearly as much on defense yet, but this foursome will only get better as they gain experience against the best wide receivers in the nation.

§  Special Teams: Unfortunately, this remains a relative strength of the team so far, mostly because it hasn’t been plagued by the high number of gaffes it committed last year or that the rest of the team has so far this year.  It is way better than it has been since the Barnett days, but cannot be considered an actual “strength” that teams need to be prepared for like the punters of Mac’s days, returner likes Deon Figures or Ben Kelly, or a kicker like Mason Crosby.  They do have a lot of solid players, but no known difference makers.

§  Punter Darragh O’Neill is the most impacting special teams player we have, with his booming leg and tenacity in covering his own kicks, and should be named the team MVP.  He has made two touchdown saving tackles, in addition to some really nice punts that have bailed them out or pinned the opposition.  However, he is still very young in football years and is prone to many mistakes, including some really low kicks and a couple terrible shanks out of bounds.  By his senior season he will really be a force.

§  True frosh CB Kenneth Crawley has done an admirable job on punt returns so far, increasing our average hugely over the past few years.  After the one muff against csu, he has learned from it and become very dependable since.  He has not broken one yet, but does show the fearlessness and moves to pull it off in time.  This also could become a strength down the road.

§  Kicker Wil Oliver is fine, but I am not really satisfied with “fine”.  He has missed a 28-yarder this year and I will forgive that one-if it happens again it is a problem.  He says he is comfortable from 57 yards, but Embree has been much more reluctant to kick and has opted to go for it on fourth down when the FG would be 45 or more yards; however, I think this is more due to EB and Embree wanting to take the risk more this year.

§  Kickoffs have not been fine, with the duties split between Justin Castor and Oliver, and neither one making the endzone very often, allowing for many returns, and Oliver even had one out of bounds again?!  Why can’t CU, at this altitude, recruit kickers who can take advantage of it?!

§  Coverage of both punts and kickoffs have been shaky at times and they have allowed some big returns on both.

§  Kickoff return has been the weakest of the special teams areas with the team starting inside the 25 yard line more often than not.  Three other true frosh (not Crawley) have shared the duties so far, with RB Donta Abron and CB Jeff Hall pulling duty for UCLA.  S Marques Mosley had some less than favorable returns and was demoted, although he had returned a 100-yarder in a scrimmage.  Everyone was wondering how teams would deal with the new rules and I have been surprised how many teams across the country have been trying to return balls kicked into the endzone, costing the team 5-10 yards (or more) of field position after each kickoff.  Embree and Brookhart started out with this philosophy, but seem to have tempered their aggressive tendency and will likely take the 25 going forward.  Unfortunately, they have shown teams that they are not adept at the return and teams with good kickers will drop it short, inside the 5 and force us to desperately try a return.

§  While they are better this year, special teams units still have a lot of work to do to reach an acceptable level of play in order to help this team compete for four quarters.

Overall, the Buffs have a long way to go. Although there are a few pieces of silver lining across the roster, there are gaping holes that need to be mended.  This team could grow and improve a great deal without winning another game this season.  From the outset of the Embree era, we always said that 2013 and 2014 would be the years that this team would really start to resemble his vision.  We just didn’t think the interim would be this grim and that we could work so much on our personal patience.