December Offseason Update

A lot has actually been going on in Buffland as we have passed through most of the holidays...
Recruiting
First, Junior College signing day brought three new Buffs aboard, all of whom will enroll in classes in January and participate in spring practices, including two who will compete immediately at the biggest position group of need: the defensive line.  Jordan Carrell, will help bolster the inside while Nathaniel Robbins will join the mix at the pass rushing ends.  The third JC signing was DB Afolabi Laguda, who should also compete for playing time.
Also joining the team in January, and therefore spring ball, will be former JC d-lineman Leo Jackson, who delayed enrollment, as well as greyshirt freshman LB Grant Watanabe.  It also appears that new o-line recruit Dillon Middlemiss graduated high school in December and will also enroll in January.
The most recent verbal commitment, bringing the Buffs to 20 total, was Nashville, TN linebacker Jay Hockaday.  Also committing after early December visits from Arizona were Phoenix DB Isaiah Oliver and Chandler WR Justin Jan.  There are still a couple more spots open after the early departure/graduation of o-lineman Marc Mustoe and Brad Cotner.  The Buffs had hoped for a couple of other names to commit but they all committed elsewhere before Christmas.
It is currently a dead period in recruiting so the coaches who remain (see below) are breaking down game film from the entire season and starting to implement plans for the spring and next season.
Coaching staff
No one really expected this to be such a hot offseason topic, but the biggest surprise since the season ended was the announcement that both defensive coordinator/linebackers coach Kent Baer, as well as defensive ends (and formerly cornerbacks) coach Andy LaRussa had been hired at UNLV.  Coach MacIntyre had said at the end of the season that he didn't anticipate any staff changes, but did insinuate that "you never know" with assistant opportunities.  This was certainly a step down for Baer (who actually had one of the few multi-year contracts at Colorado) who will assume the same duties for a MWC school.  There is rampant speculation that at least Baer was encouraged to look elsewhere, with MacIntyre maybe even putting in a good word for him with Tony Sanchez. LaRussa might be a little more surprising (his father-in-law is o-line coach Gary Bernardi), but he is returning to his alma mater and where he got his coaching start, and is picking up the "special teams coordinator" title as well.  If he could coach special teams, why the hell wasn't he doing that here?! Ah, which leads me to...
Amazingly, "special" teams coach Toby Neinas, who will have to break in a new punter and kicker next year, as well as continue to tighten up all of his coverage teams, appears to be "safe" for now, along with defensive line coach James Jeffcoat and safety coach Charles Clark.
It is unknown how MacIntyre intends to use the last coaching spot.  It could be used for a LB guy if the DC doesn't handle that position as Baer did, another DB/corner coach to help Clark and let MacIntyre focus on other things, or something else, even shifting things on offense.  One rumor has Darian Hagan returning to the coaching staff, where he could play a bigger role in recruiting (as Director of Operations he can only meet with recruits on campus visits); this could possibly with RBs (freeing up Klayton Adams to work solely with TEs), or maybe even to support DBs along with MacIntyre and Clark.
As for Baer's replacement, as of December 30 when I post this, the Buffs were down to four candidates (according to Adam M at Buffstampede.com via Stuart at cuatthegame.com): former USC/Cal/ DC and former NFL coach Clancy Pendergast, Houston DC and former Buff safety on the national champion team David Gibbs, about to be former Florida DC/interim head coach DJ Durkin, or former Oklahoma head coach and current KC Chief LB coach Gary Gibbs. I personally like them in that order; Pendergast knows the conference, but the younger Gibbs would be an infusion of legacy blood, and Durkin is intriguing as defense wasn't really Florida's main problem.  Ed Orgeron had also been mentioned but might not be the best fit.  I would expect an announcement soon, before the recruiting window opens up again in January.
What could have been, what could be on the horizon
There has been a lot of reflection on the Buff 2014 season and the common theme is one I also touched on, that of "oh so close so many times", and the seven games that the Buffs had every chance of winning, but could just never find a way to finish the deed.  Pacific Takes' Jack Follman called them the "Least Lucky team of the Year", cuatthegame.com 's Stuart used all the cliches in his piece, ESPN Pac12 blog called them the "non-bowl team who could most use the extra practice".  They all go on to state that next year could be the year that MacIntyre's crew turns the corner, as there is a lot in the stable and a ton to look forward to in terms of potential.   Additionally, outside of Greg Henderson, no seniors leave any gaping holes (although it could be argued that Munyer and Crabb both gone is a problem, they like the many possible replacements but more on that later). This very young team will be returning over 50 letter winners, 26 of whom were first time (15 freshman, 5 of those true) and will be led by a very strong junior class and a few key seniors. There are a lot of positives to be optimistic about, but of course just as many, if not more questions that must still be addressed.  With that all being said, there must be progress made in the win column and not just in scoring differentials and the expectation from fans, and probably athletic administration, has to be a bowl game (which would be seven wins with @Hawaii and 13 games), and four, or even five, wins the bare minimum.
Over the next couple of weeks I will be posting previews of the offense (a lot to build upon and very little lost), the defense (a new unknown DC and a lot of bodies on the line and in the secondary) and especially special teams (basically starting from scratch) and what we might expect in spring ball and next season.
In the meantime, Happy New Year and Go Buffs!

Random reflections on a lost season

Sighs were common across Colorado this season as the Buffaloes struggled to a disappointing 2-10 record, without even recording a conference win.  Those of us who were hopefully optimistic before the season about getting to a bowl game this year must have been off their rockers...or were we? Looking back, this feisty young Buff squad definitely had four other possible wins in them on this schedule. They certainly had multiple opportunities in the overtime losses to Cal and UCLA, not mention driving late for what would have been the go ahead TD against Oregon St. That's three "shoulda" been wins, plus they were leading csu, Arizona and Utah before crumbling late as well as Washington and even stayed tight with asu. Okay, I'm not saying they should have definitely gotten the magical six wins to book a bowl, but it is not "whoa, crazy crazy" to think it was in the realm of possibility. Unfortunately, they could not catch a break (I.e. overturned interceptions bs both osu and Utah) and were quite proficient at compounding mistakes and bad breaks either right before or after halftime, and never able to the make the crucial auate in the game.

A few rolls, bounces or whistles, especially earlier in the season and this team with confidence could have become quite dangerous. Outside of sefo's tendency to make at least one awful turnover per game, the offense was very productive and was able to score points.  The defense was not nearly as good, but did lose three would be staters (kafovalu, henington and bell) in the preseason, only got a 60% or so Addison gillam and had its secondary decimated by injuries. Next season is looking up with whom they have returning, who they get back and some intriguing JC recruits coming in. All in all the 2014 season leaves a sour taste in the mouth, although it is mixed with a little of that lemon drop sweetness of what could have been and the maybe of what might be...

One last early morning stream of consciousness reaction

Well, I was right about a crazy, tight drunken pac12 game, and even close on the final score, but I was woefully incorrect in my hopeful prediction that the Buffs would finally make the play when they needed it. They just could not.  The players made crucial mistakes at crucial spots, the pac12 refs stole another game-changing interception, and then the coaches yanked away their best opportunity to take the game in the 4th quarter. 

   The Buffs actually started quite well, taking the lead on the first drive and shutting down the Utah offense early.  Even as the D gave up their usual allotment of gimme plays for the opponent, they kept the lead through halftime and into the 4th quarter again.

   Then it happened, that sequence that dooms this team.  First, Terrell Smith made what looked to be a great pick that would shift the momentum heavily in Colorado's favor.  Instead, the pac22 refs reviewed and then very questionably reversed the call. On the next 4th down play the Utes faked the punt on the clueless buffs and their punter ran for an easy first down.  The stunned defense then immediately gave up a long pass inside the five and Utah soon punched it in. Although the team was still ahead at this point, and continued to fight, most everyone in black and gold felt a sick twisting knot in their stomach.

  Shortly thereafter sefo made what has become known as his daily head scratcher, lobbing a screen right to the ute db who jogged in for the go ahead TD.  The buffs were not out of it yet, and after a Donovan lee kickoff return to midfield the buffs looked poised to finally "win this sucker" as coach MacIntyre predicted at halftime. However, the offense could only muster 8 yards and on 4th and 2, about 8 minutes remaining, the coaches made the scared, conservative call, no faith in themselves or the players, and punted the ball back to Utah. While some said it was the correct play at the time, many of us vehemently disagreed with the call, more playing not to lose than going for the win, and the Utes showed why the latter group was right. Although darragh once again pinned them deep, the Utes were able to eat a few minutes before punting back; their defense stuffed CU, forcing them to punt the game away and Utah closed out the clock. A collective sigh was heard across buff nation.

  There were some positives to take from the game- gillam looking back to his old self until a concussion took him out again, spruce and fields getting open for big gains and Ty mcculloch getting his first ever 100 yard game, Christian Powell returning to form with 3 tds-but suffering yet another heartbreaking loss is what will stick with and eat at all of us in the offseason. 

 There were even many positives to take from the season.  I think it is safe to say this is probably the best 2-10 team in the country and there are many pieces in place to look forward to next year.  Of course there are also a long list of questions remaining, and we will delve into all of that in the coming weeks, as well as take a look at recruiting.

  Lastly, I want to give one last shout out to this group of gritty seniors for all they gave to the program during these last few tumultuous years.  Good luck to them all in their next step!

Go Buffs!

Final 2014 Preview: Utah Utes

The Buffs got blown out as expected by Oregon last week, although it was not nearly as bad as it could have been.  They were still just way overmatched by the Ducks, which leaves one last game to wash the dirty taste out of our mouths and get one, just one conference win. On paper, the Utes are the more talented, successful team that has adjusted much better to the new conference and are looking forward to a bowl game this year, plus the 15 extra practices that go with it to further improve their team.  However, they have lost three out of four, will be traveling for a morning kickoff , and Colorado will be celebrating their seniors.  I will remind everyone also that this is the Pac12 conference where almost everything out of the ordinary has happened this season, that is, except for a CU conference win. 

Senior Day: There appear to be 19 total seniors (although I have seen the number listed as high as 21) on this roster (including two graduating walk-ons who could have had another year of eligibility), and highlighted by five brave players who have endured the two coaching changes and three different staffs, without ever tasting a winning season or bowl game, but they deserve to be commended for sticking through it all and helping build what looks to be a decently bright future for the Buffs.  . [Note: DB Jered Bell is also a senior, but is all but expected to receive a waiver and a sixth year of eligibility since he missed two full years with ACL injuries.]  Hopefully this team finds a way to win it for them. For a thorough look at all the seniors, check out Stuart’s tribute (they will all be posted by Saturday): http://www.cuatthegame.com/2014/a-tribute-to-the-2014-seniors/

§  Buffalo Heart Award: Voted on by fans around the tailgates and stadium, but started and facilitated by the sections behind the Colorado bench, the Buffalo Heart Award is given out after the last game each year to the graduating Buffalo who has shown the most grit and heart, enduring hardship and overcoming adversity, and representing what it means to be a Colorado Buffalo.  It has been won by the likes of backup QB Gabe Leonard as well as star WR Scotty McKnight, and last year it was presented to DB Parker Orms.  Any of the seniors could be recognized as such for what they have endured, but especially those who have been here since he who must not be named, including DB Terrell Smith, OL Daniel Munyer and Kawaii Crabb, RB Tony Jones, and TE Kyle Slavin (ok maybe not him). Some have argued that CB Greg Henderson might be deserving for having been thrown to the wolves from day one and having survived on the corner ever since.  Punter Darragh O’Neill came from absolutely nowhere to possibly being the most valuable player of these last four years, having even been the subject of a Heisman campaign by a local student podcast: The Silver and Gold Show.  I think that S Terrell Smith is very worthy for having been counted out as too small every year in camp, but somehow always finding a way to get on the field and make plays. Jered Bell would have been a candidate, but instead should return as the frontrunner next season.

§  However, my number one choice this year has to be LB Brady Daigh, who came in and turned some heads as a freshman, was slated to be the man under Greg Brown’s defense as a junior, but was totally derailed by the new staff and a freshman phenom in Addison Gillam.  Embree’s staff had asked Daigh to put on weight to serve as a run-stopping middle linebacker, but MacIntyre’s group emphasized speed and had their man in Gillam. Daigh was suddenly left in the cold as a backup and special teams contributor instead of a team leader.  Yet, we never once heard him complain, he never wavered in his lifelong dream to be a Buff, and always gave it his all on the field, no matter what role he was asked to fill.  This year he was one of the special teams leaders, not expected to see the field much on defense. Unfortunately, Gillam had a disappointing season, between illness and injury, and Daigh came up big every time his name was called on defense, recognized as one of the better players in each of those games. 

§  Make sure to cheer all the seniors and vote for the one you think gave the most to the program through these last four or five trying years.  My vote for the Buffalo Heart Award goes to Mullen’s Brady Daigh.

§  Line: Utah is ranked #25 and opened as a 10 point favorite on the road.

§  Injuries/Depth Chart moves: There are always a lot of injuries by this time of the season and both teams are affected, but a few stand out…

§  The biggest question for this game is: “Who is going to start and play at safety for the Buffs?”  They lost their leader and senior starter Jered Bell in camp; Tedric Thompson took over the leadership role, was leading the team in tackles while healthy and still leads team with its only three interceptions, but has been sidelined since overtime of the UCLA game;  Chido Awuzie was poised to take over and became the new tackling leader, but lacerated a kidney in practice leading up to Arizona; backup Marques Mosley had already blown out a knee in special teams play; next up was true frosh Evan White, but he has been battling concussions; this leaves Terrell Smith (was also banged up but is now “healthy”) and walk-ons Richard Yates and Ryan Moeller, who actually led the team in tackles against Oregon, to pick up the slack. White is listed as “day to day”, and hopefully can play, but I am personally skeptical.  CB Akhello Witherspoon is also questionable.

§  RB Michael Adkins has been ruled out with a knee/ankle.  This is very unfortunate, as he was really starting to look good (=healthy) before coming up lame again after just a few plays in Tucson.  When he was at or near 100%, he was by far their best back but that was not that often this year.  The trio of Jones, Lindsay and Powell will pick up the slack in whatever strange rotation the offensive coaches have lined up for this week.

§  What happened to FB George Frazier, who has seemingly disappeared from the offensive game plan after having quite a bit of success for a few games? He has been getting his handful of snaps on defense, but has not touched the ball on offense in a while.

§  For Utah, their biggest loss has been WR Dres Anderson, who is done for the season.  However, this has opened the door for young speedster Kaelin Clay to become a bigger part of the offense (although he is best known for dropping the ball on the one yard line after what should have been a 79 yard TD and a 14-0 lead that was instead returned 100 yards the other way, a 14 point swing that tied the game and jumpstarted Oregon to victory).

When the Buffs have the ball:

§  The Colorado offense has been record-setting this season, but for all their success, they have not been able to make the play when they need it most to extend a drive, failing often on “and one” situations and late in games, making costly turnovers at the worst times.  It’s not the first time someone says it, but they need to eliminate these mistakes and take advantage of the opportunities they are presented.

§  With that being said, the Jordan Gehrke experiment appears to be over as Sefo Liufau has once again been named the starter.  We could still see some Gehrke though.

§  Although WR Nelson Spruce still leads the country in receptions (101), he has been slowed way down from his scorching start, mainly by defenses just being more aware of him and not giving him as much room to operate.  The Buffs have too many other decent weapons not to take advantage of that attention.  Shay Fields and Bryce Bobo have especially been way too quiet.

§  TE Kyle Slavin had his best game as a Buff last week and maybe they continue to get the tight ends more involved. This is an area where they are sorely lacking for this offense-a threat at TE would open up so much more for the rest of the skill positions.

§  The offensive line has turned out to be pretty good, with the running game picking up and the QBs getting adequate protection (giving up least amount of sacks in the Pac12-20).  That being said, they are by no means world beaters and Utah will look to take advantage with a strong defensive line that leads the nation in sacks with 49.  Nate Orchard is the national individual leader with 17.5, plus he is supported by Hunter Dimick, ninth in the country with 10 of his own (for comparison sake, Derek MacCartney leads the Buffs with four).

§  Utah has had a strong defense all year, although they have been less so recently.  LB Jared Norris is 3^rd in the conference in tackles and anchors the middle of the field.  Safety Brian Blechen leads the secondary and converted receiver Dominque Hatfiled is their best corner who will likely cover Spruce most of the time.

§  The Buffs will be looking to find some room to run after watching last week’s film of Nick Wilson running for over 200 yards. Sr. RB Tony Jones will certainly get the start for Senior Day, but we know that quick Phillip Lindsay (fumbling problems hopefully behind him) and bruising Christian Powell (snaps limited due to multiple concussions?) will complement him.  I hope that if someone gets rolling that they stick with the hot hand, although they have stuck to their rotations and have suffered as a result.  No matter what, they will miss Adkins, who even with his injuries is still leading the team in rushing yards with 398.  The other three are each within 37 yards of that mark and whoever leads the team on Saturday will likely end up as the team leader for the season.

When the Utes have the ball:

§  Utah’s strength is a stellar running game led by Devontae Booker, who has got to be licking his chops for this one against one of the weaker defensive fronts in the conference, one that has routinely given up huge chunks of yardage on the ground.  I expect the Utes to run early and often (MacIntyre expects upwards of 30 touches), daring the Buffs to stop them, while taking some play action shots over the top.  That may sound like a pretty simple game plan, but I think that is all they need.

§  QB Travis Wilson doesn’t need to do anything fancy, just play mistake free ball, and take a few shots to Kaelin Clay down field. Kenneth Scott is another player who can make plays.

§  It would be a great day for Addison Gillam to return to his freshman form.  Kenneth Olugbode has gotten better as the season has progressed and might be due for a breakout game.  With the focus on the run game for Utah, Woodson Greer may even make his second start of the year and see a lot of the field.  This linebacking corps needs to make a few more tackles so the secondary doesn’t have to continue leading the team every week.

§  The secondary will obviously be key with backup safeties and expect Utah to test them. It is Greg Henderson’s record-setting 45^th start and as he is without an interception this year, look for him to take some chances and make a play.

§  The defensive line has overall been disappointing outside of Derek McCartney and the occasional Jimmie Gilbert sighting. Everyone else, from senior Juda Parker, to juniors Josh Tupou, to the true frosh Christian Shaver and Eddy Lopez have been relatively quiet.  They will need to get some push and make some tackles on the running backs so that Utah does not control the game.

Special Teams:

§  Utah owns all advantages in this phase.  Ute punter Tom Hackett, and not our own Darragh O’Neill, has made the final three for the Ray Guy Award.  Andy Phillips is one of the best kickers in the conference if not the country.  If Kaelin Clay catches one in play with any kind of space in front of him, he is a threat to take it the distance (4 return TDs this year), and I doubt he will drop the ball on the one again.

§  Phillip Lindsay is now nationally ranked as a kickoff returner and one of the only saving graces for Toby Neinas.  Actually, the punt returns have been much improved, but they were all but non-existent last year.

§  However, the CU  acoverage teams have been awful whenever the senior punter and kicker (the other saving graces) let an opponent field a return. 

§  Overall, this looks like a Pac12 game that will have some crazy swings and go down to the wire, but some way, somehow the Buffs are going to find a way to finally make that one play and win a fucking conference game!  Buffs 37-Utah 33

§  If  you really need some more before one last ungodly kickoff time:

Stuart’s TIPS: http://www.cuatthegame.com/2014/utah-at-colorado-a-preview/

Rumblin’ Preview: http://rumblinbuff.blogspot.com/2014/11/2014-utah-football-preview-finish-line.html

Ralphie Report One Key Matchup: http://www.ralphiereport.com/buffaloes-utes/2014/11/26/7290863/colorado-buffaloes-vs-utah-utes-one-key-matchup

RR Preview: http://www.ralphiereport.com/buffaloes-utes/2014/11/28/7289855/buffs-vs-utes-the-final-preview

Plati’s CU Game Notes: http://www.cubuffs.com/fls/600/gameday/utah14/cunotes.pdf?DB_OEM_ID=600

Utah Game Notes: couldn’t find these but they might be available on the CU site now

Sunday morning stream of consciousness reaction

The buffs did indeed get trounced by the Oregon Ducks this time though only 44-10, which still covered the spread. The game was only in doubt for the opening kickoff where CU lined up in an onsides kick formation and actually recovered it after some fortuitous bounces. However, Jordan gerhke promptly went three and out in his first series. Oregon never really looked back, even when their 2pt conversion failed. The buffs never found traction, could rarely sustain any success for more than a play or two and were never really in the game.  Gerhke showed why he is the backup, though sefo only fared marginally better. Colorado highlights were few. Phillip Lindsay continued to look good both on offense and returns. TE Kyle Slavin had probably his best game as a buff but had one of his catches called back- that's so CU this year. BoulderDevil should be happy Ryan moeller finally got his chance and led the team in tackles, although he was a little overzealous with his hits, not always wrapping up and pushing the edge late along the sidelines, including one penalty.The team has one final shot at a conference win against Utah early next Saturday morning where I would expect a sparse crowd without many students and season ticket holders who are out of town for the holiday. 

Oregon Ducks Blowout Preview

We are going to make this one short and sweet (well, not really that sweet for us Buff fans) and to the point:  Oregon is favored by 33 points (not a typo) and with good reason.  The Ducks are playing their best football of the year, there are a ton of injuries for the Buffs (especially in the defensive secondary) and blowouts have been the norm in this matchup since CU joined the conference.  The question is not so much “Will Oregon cover?” but “Will there be any reason to stay tuned in or even switch back once the CU-Wyoming basketball game tips off an hour after kickoff?”  The only thing the Buffs really have going for them is that this is the Pac12 and the only crazy thing that hasn’t happened this year is CU getting a win over a conference foe.

When the Buffs have the ball:

§  The offense will need to be at its absolute best to keep the Buffaloes anywhere close in this game.  There is no room for error. 

§  It appears that Sefo is on track to play, but has not been officially cleared.  However, his penchant for turning the ball over has probably opened the door for backup Jordan Gerhke to get a look, and everyone, well, except head coach Mike MacIntyre, has said that Gehrke will get some snaps in the final two games.  How much we see of will depend on a lot of things, but his running ability might be one way to keep the Ducks D off balance. However, if Sefo is banged up still, they might be hesitant to run Gehrke much, since the next option at QB is walk-on frosh Ty Gangi (as they do not want to waste Cade Apsay’s redshirt).

§  Nelson Spruce will need a strong game, but so will the other receivers and they need to find a way to make some plays downfield.

§  They should probably introduce a new wrinkle on the reverse game they have been utilizing the last few games.

§  Unfortunately, RB Michael Adkins sprained his ankle and is probably not 100% and when he has been less than that he has not looked good.  Brian Lindgren has yet to figure out how to rotate his RBs and so no one has been all that effective.  Tony Jones, Christian Powell (I think they might be limiting his touches now because of his concussion history) and Phillip Lindsay will all get touches, all will have a couple of nice plays, but expect a lot of zero or one yard gains or losses, and probably a couple of drops on screens.

When the Ducks have the ball:

§  The Ducks offensive strength against the Buffs defensive, certainly their weakest unit again this year.  Heisman hopeful Marcus Mariota versus the depleted CU secondary.  Speed against…not so fast.  I think you have to say the Oregon owns the advantage at every position group and matchup.

§  Mariota is hoping to pad his stats and chances at the Heisman by destroying the Buffs yet again (seven total TDs last year) and there is little reason to think he won’t do so.  He has 29 passing TDs to only 2 interceptions, and he is most dangerous when a play breaks down and he has to run, picking up a lot of third down conversion with his feet, a situation the Buffs have not been able to defend that well against much lesser QBs.

§  The Ducks are a super talented, sprinter-fast team going against a defense that has given up piles of yards and points.  True frosh RB Royce Freeman gets overlooked but he is a beast and has over taken both Byron Marshall (since moved to the slot) and Thomas Tyner (last year’s freshman sensation), both of whom would start for many schools.  They just have tons of speedy weapons and even though they lost star TE Pharaoh Brown, they will have too many options for this defense to stop. 

§  The OU o-line has endured some injuries and will be down at least their center this week, but as long as Jake Fischer is at one of the tackles, there are a stellar time that opens holes and gives Mariota time to make plays.

§  Even when the Buffs have played well on defense they are unable to sustain it and will eventually give up a series of big plays.

§  To compound matters, CU will be playing at least two former walk-ons at safety, a position that was once considered the deepest group at the beginning of the season; but then Jered Bell blew out his knee in camp, numerous injuries forced many young players in to action early and we saw a lot of combinations in the secondary, then Marques Mosely went down with another knee, Tedric Thompson took a huge hit against UCLA and has not played since (still questionable), Chido Awuzie lacerated a kidney in practice and is done, and true frosh Evan White is also questionable after a concussion.  That leaves Terrell Smith, who didn’t play when everyone was healthy even though he is a senior, has battled injuries of his own, but he is the number one option right now, and will likely play alongside walk-on Ryan Moeller or former walk-on Richard Yates.  This is just bad. They might have to ask DD Goodson to pop back over to defense and Jason Espinoza isn’t even here anymore.

§  If a team wants to break the 100 point barrier, this would be the game for Oregon to give it a shot.

Special Teams:

§  Oregon is just way faster than CU here and Darragh O’Neill and Wil Oliver must keep the ball away from the Duck returners or there will surely be a big return for a TD.  Nelson Spruce, Shay Fields, Phillip Lindsay and anyone else who might receive a kick or punt must hold onto the ball.

§  Overall, the Buffs are going to be outmatched in all facets of the game.  It will be a blow out, but Buffs “cover” 59-27.  I only hope that this group gives me a reason, any reason, to watch any of the second half instead of the basketball.  Who ever thought, especially back in the dark days of Ricardo Patten, that we would look so forward to b-ball season?!

§  If you truly feel the need to subject yourself to more analysis of this game…

Stuart’s TIPS: http://www.cuatthegame.com/2014/cu-at-no-2-oregon-a-preview/

Rumblin’ Preview: http://rumblinbuff.blogspot.com/

Ralphie Report One Key Matchup: http://www.ralphiereport.com/buffaloes-ducks/2014/11/19/7246709/colorado-buffaloes-oregon-ducks-one-key-matchup

RR’s Patrick Ghidossi’s 3 Keys to the game: http://www.ralphiereport.com/buffaloes-ducks/2014/11/21/7257853/colorado-buffaloes-vs-oregon-ducks-keys-to-the-game

Plati’s CU Game Notes: http://www.cubuffs.com/fls/600/gameday/ore14/cunotes.pdf?DB_OEM_ID=600

Oregon Game Notes: http://www.cubuffs.com/fls/600/gameday/ore14/orenotes.pdf?DB_OEM_ID=600

Road Trip! Arizona Wildcats Preview

I have been especially excited for this game as I will be attending my first road game since Stanford in 2012, making this the 5th of the Pac12 stadiums I will have visited for a game (saw 5 or 6 USC games at the Coliseum as a student and went to Washington to see the Buffs play under Barnett, although I guess I was also in Tucson previously for the Buffs vs. BC in the Insight.com Bowl). There was a time recently when I was saying that the Buffs would shock the world in this game.  However, as the game itself approaches, I am more and more wary of the team’s chances on the road here.  They have traditionally been awful in the state of Arizona, are fighting some injuries on their already suspect defense, and have to overcome so many self-inflicted obstacles each game.  On top of that, Arizona is coming off of two tough losses in three weeks to both of the LA schools and will be ready to take out their frustrations. I am hoping the weather and the Ritz-Carlton will make up for the game.

§  Line: Arizona (ranked #21) opened as a 16 point favorite and that is hard to argue.

§  Injuries: Here is what they are actually telling us:

§  S Tedric Thompson is likely still out after taking a scary hit against UCLA, but Terrell Smith is expected to return.

§  LT Jeromy Irwin will make the trip but is doubtful with a sprained ankle.

§  DD Goodson twisted an ankle, is listed as questionable, but should play.

§  For Arizona, WR Austin Hill is probable after a concussion, CB Jarvis McCall is questionable with a shoulder, and their starting long snapper, Chase Gorham, is doubtful with an abdominal strain.

§  Depth Chart moves:

§  LB Addison Gillam is off the injury list, but is still probably less than 100% in a year where he has never looked 100%, and will likely split time with Brady Daigh, who has played admirably every time he has had to go into the game.

§  Assuming Irwin does not play, or if he tries and can’t, line coach Gary Beernardi is not tipping his hand if he will go with R-Fr. Sam Kronshrage, who played well in his debut against real competition, or slide Kawai Crabb out to tackle, and bring in Gerrad Kough, who also played well when he filled in for Crabb.

§  S Evan White will likely get the start, with Smith and John Walker playing nickel.

When the Buffs have the ball:

§  Sefo continues to put up lights out statistics for most of the game, while making a couple of really bonehead, costly plays.  MacIntyre said that he is basically coming to the line with three run-pass options and making the right call most of the time. He needs to be clean on the road (watch for linebackers underneath!) for the Buffs to stay in the game.

§  The CU offensive line is really playing well and the offense has been moving the ball.  The biggest barrier to the team has been the steady flow of turnovers, seemingly always at the worst moments.  Sefo continues to throw a terrible pick or two a game and the team has fumbled more this year than all of last.  The Buffs have got to win the turnover battle to have any chance.

§  The RBs are having success no matter who it is, as long as they hold onto the ball.  Adkins finally looks 100% and should start to see the lion’s share of the work.  But Tony Jones and Philip Lindsay also had some great spark.  This might be the Buffs’ best chance if they can grind out some yards and take time off the clock, but they can’t settle for FGs.  Not sure what Christian Powell’s situation really is and I don’t think he can sustain being an every down running back.

§  I am surprised that the receiver chart is not more diverse each game-last week it was the DD Goodson show and we never say Tyler McCulloch, and very little of Shay Fields or Bryce Bobo.  Is it just what the defense is giving them, or is it the gameplan.  I certainly can’t wait until next year when the offense might have a TE option as well.

§  LB Scooby Wright is a monster averaging a dozen tackles per game.

When the Wildcats have the ball:

§  Arizona has absolutely pounded the Buffs on the ground the past two years and should continue to do so, running it early and often against a defensive line that has struggled.  They will run a lot of read-option, which CU has not faced that much this year, although they have struggled against it when they have.  The two-headed RB horse of true frosh RB Nick Wilson and Terris Jones-Grigsby should find ample space to run.

§  R-Fr. QB Anu Solomon is the new next great Pac12 signal caller and playmaker, can move to run or just keep a play alive, and has a corps of big and fast receivers led by Caleb Jones and Austin Hill.  Containing him will be as difficult of a task as they have faced.  The Wildcats will certainly take their chances against this secondary that has been prone to the big play, especially as true frosh Evan White is expected to start again with Tedric Thompson out and Terrell Smith returning from a concussion.

§  LB Addison Gillam is supposedly “healthy”, whatever that means for him.  He is a shell of his freshman self, literally as he has lost a ton of weight due to multiple or lingering illnesses, and figuratively, as he has just not been the same player on the field (another ‘next year sigh’).  Brady Daigh has been great and will likely split time.  Kenneth Olugbode has been getting better and better and helps take of some of the slack.  Woodson Greer has hardly played in the pass-happy Pac12.

§  Even with some decent linebacker play, the Colorado secondary has had to make way too many tackles and currently safety Chido Awuzie leads the team.  This is a relatively strong group, but they see way too many plays and often have to cover for so long because of a weak ass pass rush, besides having to worry about the run game that often makes it to their level.

Special Teams:

§   Wil Oliver has been booming his kickoffs deep and limiting the return game there.  Kicking at sea level in the desert may be a different story though.

§  Darragh O’Neill has been stellar, especially when he is asked to just boom the ball.  However, when he was asked to rugby-style kick it for a “safe” play, the Huskies returned it for a TD.  Just let him wail on the ball and continue to pin teams deep.

§  Whether it is Nelson Spruce or Shay Fields, there has been little or no punt return game.  Just go with Fields at this point to give him the experience, save Spruce, and give us the best chance to break one.

§  Philip Lindsay is so close on kickoff returns to breaking one, but we will have to see if the fumbles last week have any effect on his “Tasmanian Devil” style.

§  Since their long snapper is likely out, and they haven’t done much and should hang it all out now, they should rush the crap out of kicks and try to get a block and big play, but Neinas is scared and doubtful he takes a chance like that.

§  Overall, I just can’t see it and am expecting the Buffs to stick around for a while, but am confident they will find a way to lose on the road, U of A 45 CU 27.

§  If  you have the time and need some more, for instance if you were flying down for the game:

Stuart’s TIPS: http://www.cuatthegame.com/2014/colorado-at-no-21-arizona-a-preview/

Rumblin’ Preview (not up as of posting but should be there Friday some time): http://rumblinbuff.blogspot.com/

Ralphie Report: http://www.ralphiereport.com/buffaloes-wildcats/2014/11/6/7151311/buffs-vs-wildcats-the-preview

Plati’s CU Game Notes: http://www.cubuffs.com/fls/600/gameday/ariz14/cunotes.pdf?DB_OEM_ID=600

Arizona Game Notes: http://www.cubuffs.com/fls/600/gameday/ariz14/ariznotes.pdf?DB_OEM_ID=600

Arizona Desert Swarm: http://www.azdesertswarm.com/football/2014/11/6/7171015/arizona-wildcats-football-terris-jones-grigsby-kadeem-carey-colorado

Monday morning stream of consciousness Washington reaction

It is getting harder and harder to watch this team, even though there is no where else I'd rather be in a Saturday, but anytime they make a good play you are left cringing biting lips waiting for their next mistake, because you know it is coming. So many improved stats, mostly on offense but even on D, however, there are so many terrible ones from rushing and red zone defense to Sefo's conference leading interceptions. The coaching is mind boggling in how they manage the game and how their players are still making many of the same mistakes as they did against the rams. I am headed down to Tucson for the next one and am unsure of how to even approach this game.

Washington Huskies Preview

The Buffs dropped yet another heartbreaker in double overtime to UCLA at home and must dig deep to leave that draining loss behind them for another possibly winnable game against the Huskies.  Another team that has blown them out in recent meetings, Washington is not nearly as potent on offense as years past but has a stout defense that has found a way to score in almost every game.  This may be the last best chance for the Buffs to pick up a win as the last three opponents are all ranked in the top 18 (@ #14 Arizona, @ #5 Oregon and home against current #18 Utah) and playing well.  However, UW is on a two-game losing streak and is also definitely looking at CU as the easiest game left on their schedule, although it should be noted that the Huskies have had streak of years where they have lost three consecutive games.  The Buffs must come out firing and not get themselves in an early hole as they have been prone to do, as this Husky defense will make it very difficult to come back.

§  Line: It opened at Washington -4 , but as it has every week, immediately jumped up to 5.5 with heavy betting on whoever plays the Buffs, before settling back at 4.

§  Depth Chart moves: There were no major shake-ups for the Buffs, but LB Brady Daigh again played very well in the absence of Addison Gillam (flu, after saying he felt physically better than he had all year).

§  Gerrad Kough also filled in well for Kawai Crabb (concussion) at left guard.

§  Injuries:

§  A scary moment in the first overtime period had S Tedric Thompson on the field for several minutes before being loaded on a stretcher and carted off due to a neck/head injury, although fortunately all tests turned up negative at the hospital. I do not expect him to play this week.

§  Backup safety Marques Mosley tore an ACL and is out for the rest of the season.

§  In all, there are five CU players listed with concussions: Thompson. Crabb (still day-to-day), S Terrell Smith (sustained late in UCLA game), plus CB Akhello Witherspoon and RB Christian Powell, who are both expected to play this week.

§  Washington has had a lot of injuries, but may be getting some guys back.  Nickel safety Trevor Walker is out for the season after tearing an ACL.

§  Their top two RBs, Dwayne Washington and Lavon Coleman, have been banged up, but at least Coleman is expected to be in the lineup against the Buffs.  Last week, they moved arguably their best defensive player, LB/S Shaq Thompson to RB and he immediately became their best offensive player.

When the Buffs have the ball:

§  The Washington defense is what has kept them in games, slowing down effective offenses, especially the run game, and they know how to get turnovers, having created 16, scoring SIX touchdowns themselves this year (4 by Thompson).  They will be the stiffest challenge yet for the young Buffaloes, who should be able to find a few open spaces in the passing game.

§  The front seven is the heart of this defense, with a legion of stud linebackers-so deep that they were able to lend out their best player, Shaq Thompson to the offense (he did not play a defensive snap last week).  The question is how much, if any, will the playmaker line up on defense? John Timu is also a beast and has 2 TDs of his own.

§  The defensive line is led by all-everything DE Hau’oli Kikaha’s 14.5 sacks plus line mate Danny Shelton has 7.5 of his own, and they both have 5 more tackles for loss.  The Buff o-line will be challenged as well as Brian Lindgren’s (cringe) play calling. 

§  While the offensive line has gotten steadily better, giving up few sacks and producing some limited space for runners, they are by no means blowing anyone away, still struggling with short yardage and too often leaving Sefo to scramble and/or take hits, even if they are not sacks.  If they could take a small step forward today, it would go a long way towards helping their team win.

§  One nice wrinkle the Buffs ran a few times against UCLA, twice with success, was a double reverse that comes with a few options-pass down field, pass back to the QB, just run it, and it looks like it has a triple reverse possibility as well.  This could be something they use to bait defenses in the future, starting this week with the aggressive Husky front seven.

§  The UW secondary is also solid, led by Marcus Peters, but they have shown some kinks in the armor and can certainly be beaten.  Sefo will likely target whoever is early in his progression that is not being covered by Peters.

§  Even though the CU offense continues to set single season records, they have been plagued with the same problems all year long-that is, Sefo’s inclination to throw at least one head-scratching interception, their inability to pick up short yardage first downs (mostly because Lindgren’s favorite play call in this situation appears to be run into Alex Kelley’s back), and, now that teams have watched film of the first few games, the receivers are not getting anything deep as they did early.  So, although they are cranking out yards, and even points, in unprecedented numbers, they are still not doing enough to win, which would be the worry this week against a stout defense.

§  They were able to get Nelson Spruce a few balls last week, but teams are aware of him now.  Sefo has been able to spread the ball around some, with Bryce Bobo the main benefactor notching his first two-TD day.  If defenses have to worry about Bobo as well, it could open things up even more for others like Shay Fields.  Sefo needs to eliminate the horrible interception and limit both his bouncing underthrows and soaring overthrows to the outside.

§  The running game is finally starting to pick up and Michael Adkins had his best day of the season.  Powell was still out last week and his bruising style might have helped out at times and is back for Washington.  Philip Lindsay and Tony Jones both also had some nice plays last week.  In general, the Buffs are picking up small chunks of yardage and the overall stats are solid, but no one in the group has been able to break a long one yet, and they still have trouble picking up the tough yard when they need it.  Washington might be the best run D they have faced, so this group may struggle as they did early in the year, making it all the more important that Sefo can execute the passing game.

§  Sefo has shown the ability to carry the ball and will likely have to make some plays with his feet, both designed and impromptu. I would expect to see more read-option here with all the RBs healthy and a difficult aggressive defense.  Sefo’s decision making is crucial in handling the ball, recognizing and not throwing into disguised coverage and making the right call in the read option.

When the Huskies have the ball:

§  QB Cyler Miles is expected to return after a concussion-he was listed as the backup last week and was cleared but had not taken any reps during the week.  Even with him in the lineup, the production has been lacking more often than not.  WR John Ross is his favorite target and very fast, but they also have Jaydon Mickens and a few other guys capable of stretching the secondary.

§  The Husky running backs committee has not been all effective and their best option is also their best defensive player.  We will probably see a combination of Coleman, Deontae Cooper and some Shaq.  Shutting this group down will force the still young Miles to make plays or mistakes, and it could pull Thompson off of defense.

§  The CU defensive line is quietly improving, and Derek McCartney is blossoming into a star, but the group is still giving up a lot of rushing yards and overall points, and is still too often not getting sufficient pressure on the QB without help, which allows him to complete the long pass against the tired secondary, or just scramble as Hundley did to secure the overtime win for UCLA.

§  LB Brady Daigh has played great every time he has had to come on for Addison Gillam, who has struggled to stay healthy and is only a shell of his All-everything freshman self, although he should be in the lineup this week.  Kenneth Olugbode had arguably his best day in a CU uniform last week and also needs to continue his play without the youthful mistakes.

§  True frosh Evan White is slated for his second start with all the safety concussions, with John Walker or Akhello Witherspoon coming in at nickel.  Look for Miles to test these White early, as well as Witherspoon when he is in.  Is this the week we get to see what Yuri Wright can do?

§  Chidobe Awuzie is starting to come into his own as a safety, still making the occasional positional mistake, but making a lot of key, big hits for the defense.  He will need to have a big game, preferably without the mistakes, especially without Thompson alongside.

Special Teams:

§   Wil Oliver had his best day booming every kickoff deep into or out of the endzone and was perfect on PATs and FGs.  Keeping those kickoffs deep will be very important again as Washington boasts another big time return threat in WR John Ross.

§  Darragh O’Neill had one shank but otherwise was also stellar and kept the ball out of Ishmael Adams’ hands.  He continues to average close to 45 yards a punt, with half of them ending up downed inside the 20.

§  The CU return game is still mediocre at best. Shay Fields has taken over punts, although Nelson Spruce had to come and field a couple after Fields bobbled one. Philip Lindsay has some spark on kickoffs and it appears he is on the cusp of breaking one, but he needs that one good block small crease, and this would be a fabulous week to find it.

§  Overall, this is another game the Buffs can win, but they have to come out of the gate awake and ready to play, even if is at an ungodly hour for college football.  This will be a dog fight (pun intended) but I am going say Colorado does dig deep, limits turnovers while getting a couple themselves, make a couple of big plays, and finds a way to win it late, CU 34 UW 30.

§  If  you have time for anything else:

Stuart’s TIPS: http://www.cuatthegame.com/2014/washington-at-cu-a-preview/

Rumblin’ Preview: http://rumblinbuff.blogspot.com/2014/10/2014-washington-football-preview.html

Ralphie Report: http://www.ralphiereport.com/buffaloes-huskies/2014/10/30/7091287/buffs-vs-huskies-the-preview

Pacific Takes: http://www.pacifictakes.com/2014/10/31/7137085/colorado-football-whats-it-going-to-take

Plati’s CU Game Notes: http://www.cubuffs.com/fls/600/gameday/uw14/cunotes.pdf?DB_OEM_ID=600

Washington Game Notes: http://www.cubuffs.com/fls/600/gameday/uw14/uwnotes.pdf?DB_OEM_ID=600

UW Dawg Pound (with numerous links to more of their content on the game): http://www.uwdawgpound.com/2014/11/1/7141481/how-to-watch-washington-at-colorado-game-preview-game-time-tv-live-stream-online

Sunday morning stream of consciousness reaction

After yet another mind numbing heartbreaking loss the Buffs and their fan base are left yet again wondering "what if?" Although there are a lot of things to be excited about-500 yards offense including a running attack, Bryce bobo's 2 TDs, Kenneth olugbode'a best game, some huge defensive stops, wil Oliver eliminating kick return game with touchbacks-there were still way too many of the same costly mistakes at the worst times. Once again Colorado started by spotting their opponent a two touchdown lead with Ucla going up 17-0 before the buffs woke up and started to play ball. They won the middle of the game despite some really boneheaded plays, but then could not finish, even with the bruin defense exhausted in overtime they could only muster two three and out FGs and finally were overcome by Brett hundley. They found every way to make critical mistakes, especially at the beginning and end, including head scratching interceptions by sefo early and late. The only thing missing was costly drops (but sefo had many under and overthrows also). But the worst mistakes were coaching related, highlighted by the end of half debacle where they were unaware and unprepared. I can't understand how lindgren keeps calling runs straight into the line on short yardage plays. They also are scared stiff to go for it on 4th down, I guess since they are so terrible at play calling-- they punted 3 or 4 times from near midfield on 4th and 3 or less. 

  I must say that this team has heart like none I have seen and continues to persevere; I just hope they can stick with it after so many close calls and difficult losses. Washington is a winnable game, albeit at an ungodly football hour. Go Buffs!

UCLA Bruins Preview

The Buffs laid in egg in LA and sent many fans reeling back to the misery of the past few (no, can’t really say few anymore, now it is many more than that) years.  The team never showed up in any phase of the game until the outcome was no longer in doubt, that is, late in the first quarter at 28-0.  Too many bad mistakes, weak line play on both sides, sporadic tackling, blah blah blah-the same old shit we have been seeing except that this time the Trojans really made them pay.

UCLA will provide almost as stiff of a challenge.  Even though they have not been playing up to their preseason hype, they are still ranked, very talented and coming off a tight win against Cal, following two tough losses. They will be looking to get well against the Buffs and Brett Hundley is already eyeing the “Player of the Week” accolades that come with QBing against Colorado.  The Buffaloes’ only chance lies in taking advantage of Hundley’s and the Bruins’ tendency for turnovers, without making any big mistakes themselves, a tall order they have yet to fill.

§  Line: The line opened at 12.5 and as usual heavy betting on CU’s opponent sent it rising immediately to 13.5.

§  Depth Chart moves: It is doubtful any more true frosh will burn redshirts, but there has been some shuffling and MacIntyre hinted there might be more after the USC loss.

§  K Chris Graham got his first kickoff and hit it pretty well and we might see him in the future.

§  Already past the midpoint of the season and coach Clark and MacIntyre himself cannot decide on their best five.  Terrel Smith played some nickel for the first time and Akhello Witherspoon again got some playing time instead of John Walker, but the secondary still got decimated.  While the same four have started almost every game, they have moved around trying to find the best five-man combination in the nickel package, which they actually use more than their “base”.  The positive is that this group will be very experienced next season (losing Henderson, but likely getting Jered Bell back and adding redshirting big corner Jaisen Sanchez).

§  In the 4^th quarter at USC we were able to see a lot of the young guys play (as well as some older ones like RB Malcolm Creer) but nothing stood out as the scrubs ran the clock down.  Backup QB Jordan Gehrke looked okay, definitely can scramble, but it was in garbage time against backups.

§  We also got our first glimpse of heralded transfer Shane Callahan at guard, as well as Gerrald Kough and Sam Kronshrage. Will they make any moves along the line, especially with Kawai Crabb questionable with a concussion?

§  Injuries: At one point MacIntyre indicated he expected everyone to be ready to go (My first draft of this was : “The Buffs should be relatively healthy, although there always seems to be some unreported injuries as well-i.e. MacIntyre mentioning that CB John Walker had a previously unknown thigh contusion) but alas that is not the case... 

§  There are three players listed day-to-day with concussions: Crabb, CB Akhello Witherspoon and RB Christian Powell, who has had multiple incidences in his career and at one point was all but permanently shut down by Embree.

§  WR Bryce Bobo is still sore after taking that vicious hit near the sidelines last week.

§  UCLA has a lot of guys that are questionable but “doing well” according to Coach Mora, including RB Paul Perkins(right wrist), WR Thomas Duarte (hamstring), CB Fabian Moreau (stinger) and offensive tackles Simon Goines and Alex Redmond (both with ankles), but we probably won’t know until game time much like playing Kansas St in the past.

When the Buffs have the ball:

§  The Bruin defense has some of the best individual players, from CB Ishmael Adams (two interceptions for TDs), LBs Eric Kendricks and Myles Jack (is there a better duo anywhere?), and a formidable line, but they have not been able to put together a whole game as a unit. They have given up a lot more than anyone expected, but they too might be looking to get well in Boulder.

§  The CU offense had its worst outing versus the Trojans, with Sefo calling it his worst personal performance of his career.  It wasn’t pretty early in the game and all the stats came when the game was really decided, that is the last three quarters.  In order for the team to be in the game the offense has to score a lot of points and limit mistakes.

§  Part of the problem is that defenses are studying and preparing to take away Sefo’s favorite target Nelson Spruce.  He has to get others involved, preferably without telegraphing it.  As good as Sefo has been, his bad plays are really bad.  I think his decision making is getting better but he doesn’t always work through his progressions and still has the tendency to hold onto the ball too long and take a lot of hits.  I would love to see a game where he doesn’t throw that costly UGH interception.

§  RB Tony Jones had a solid day but it is a little sad that he is the emerging as the best back. They are gaining some yards but are not breaking big plays, not getting the tough yards in short situatuions.  Frankly, they just need more out of this position, and maybe using all four guys is not really letting anyone get into any kind of a rhythm. A completely healthy Michael Adkins could still be the solution but Philip Lindsay is so dynamic that if the line could just give him a few more creases to squeeze through…

§  I must say that the offensive line is improving and the statistics are starting to show it as the Buffs are setting school records passing and have only given up 12 sacks, while actually averaging 169 yards rushing per game.  However, I have not seen the hurry/pressure/hit/knockdown numbers but I assume they are much higher as Sefo has taken a lot of really big hits (though we did mention he often holds onto the ball).  Also, while they have picked up decent yardage on the ground, the team is unable to convert way too many “and 1” situations, between questionable play calling and very little push from the line, nor have they been able to take over a game for any length of time against anyone.

§  The best news though is that this group is still relatively young, getting better all the time, and (I can’t believe that I am already succumbing to talking about the future) returns most of the pieces, with obvious choices waiting in the wings to replace the few they lose.

When the Bruins have the ball:

§  Former preseason Heisman hopeful QB Brett Hundley has not looked his all-worldly self this year, but is still very dangerous, and had a phenomenal game against the Buffs last year.  His weakness is that he just doesn’t read defenses that well and tries to rely on his athleticism too much, holding onto the ball and trying to get out of too many tight spaces with his legs. 

§  I guess I can say it again, but the defensive line is so important for this Buff defense to have any success.  Even though the secondary is much improved, they can only cover for so long, and therefore have given up a ton of catches, yards and scores. The d-line needs to contain Hundley and bring him down, as the teams who have been successful against them have done.  Derek McCartney and Jimmie Gilbert are starting to break out on the ends but they need a lot more help, especially on the inside run game.

§  UCLA’s receiving core is deep and fast.  Jordan Payton is the leader, but no less than six guys have had big plays and days and any of them could be the one to find the wide seams in the Buff defense late in the play.  The secondary has its hand full and no matter who plays, they will be running a lot try to keep up with this bunch.

§  RB Paul Perkins grabbed the job from Jordon James and has been extremely effective, although he has been limited lately.  It would be a nice day for the real Addison Gillam to show up and introduce himself early and often so the secondary doesn’t have to make so many tackles.

§  It will be interesting to see who lines up in the secondary as the Buffs have tried a new starting four or five the last few games.  Henderson, Crawley, Thompson and Awuzie will almost certainly be out there, but who the fifth guy is and what their alignment is (both Awuaie and Henderson have slid inside to the slot while someone else comes in at the outside corner) in the nickel is the unknown; will it be John Walker, Akhello Witherspoon, Evan White, Terrel Smith, Marques Mosley or will Yuri Wright finally get his shot?

Special Teams:

§  The Bruins have a very dangerous return man in Ishmael Adams (who also sneaks in on offense) and if we don’t keep the ball out of his hands, I wouldn’t be surprised at all if he got into the endzone, especially on a kickoff if they don’t get them out of the endzone since Adams likes to line up on the endline and is not afraid to take it out. Could Chris Graham get a chance or two to boom a kickoff at altitude?

§  But Adams likely won’t have as much opportunity on punts as Darragh O’Neill continues to shine, booming the ball for 45+ yards a kick and still pinning the opponent inside the 20 over half the time. I love the “Silver and Gold” podcast and Twitter campaign promoting him for Heisman. 

§  Wil Oliver is a good kicker, great on PATs and usually reliable inside 40, but that is it.

§  Overall, even though they have only really played one complete game this year, UCLA has too much talent (again) and should be able to ride that to a win.  I am done picking upsets-UCLA 38 CU 27, so Buffs cover, but hopefully the voodoo of me picking against them reverses some trend in the universe and leads to a domino effect.

§  If  you need some more:

Stuart’s TIPS: http://www.cuatthegame.com/2014/cu-vs-no-25-ucla-a-preview/

Rumblin’ Preview: http://rumblinbuff.blogspot.com/2014/10/2014-ucla-football-preview.html

Ralphie Report: http://www.ralphiereport.com/buffaloes-bruins/2014/10/24/7052805/buffs-vs-bruins-the-preview

Plati’s CU Game Notes: http://www.cubuffs.com/fls/600/gameday/ucla14/cunotes.pdf?DB_OEM_ID=600

UCLA Game Notes: http://www.cubuffs.com/fls/600/gameday/ucla14/uclanotes.pdf?DB_OEM_ID=600