Burning Questions for the Opening of Fall Camp

Hallelujah!  Football officially begins today as the Buffs practiced for the first time this morning. Although I won't make it up this morning, I will try to make up to and post about (shhh) one or two of the other open practices this week (the mornings of the 6th and 7th and the evening of the 8th) and hopefully the scheduled scrimmage on the morning of Saturday the 15th (also Friday 21st but I will be at school). As with any college football team heading into August practices, the Colorado Buffaloes have a lot of unanswered questions, but there are a few specific ones that will go a long way in deciding just how far this group can go. If they can find sufficient answers for these three,big questions, that elusive bowl game is attainable, but if not, another dismal season could be in store.  It all starts today, and here are the three most intriguing burning questions facing the Buffs as they start fall practices.

1a & b)  Who will fill the main rotation on the defensive line and will they be able to slow down opposing offenses rushing attacks?
As has been outlined in many preseason prognostications (including this blog), even without Josh Tupou, coach Jim Jeffcoat has a deep and talented group of lineman with which to work (16 bodies for 10 or so spots that get on the field consistently).  The main question is can he find the right combination to slow down opposing teams' run game, and then also get some pressure on the passer?  It's no secret that the Buffs have struggled on defense for years, and although they were able to make some more big stops last season, they still gave up ridiculous amounts of yards and points.  Last year the Buffs gave up over 200 yards a game rushing-I could list a whole bunch of other depressing defensive stats, but that one says it all.  In order for there to be marked improvement, it has to start with the boys up front doing their jobs, especially on first and second run downs, so that linebackers Addison Gillam and Kenneth Olugbode and the deep secondary can do theirs.  Everything else will improve when that rushing statistic does: there will be less overall yardage, less easy first downs, more obvious passing downs where the team can put better pressure on the passing game, they should produce more turnovers, they should get off the field more so they are not as tired late in close games and they will certainly give up less points.

2) Can QB Sefo Liufau limit the mistakes, especially at crucial spots late in the game?
We all know that he and the offense set all kinds of records last year, most of them good (however, Dave Plati admits CU keeps more records than anyone else) and with Nelson Spruce and a talented supporting cast, most expect them to continue putting up big numbers in 2015.  However, we all know about Sefo's turnovers as well-15 interceptions and 3 fumbles and that is where the change has to occur.  Sefo doesn't even need to match last year's yardage or TD numbers if he can limit those mistakes.  Coaches believe this will be the case for a few reasons: first, Sefo is intelligent, studies film and has grown a lot; second, he has worked specifically on moving and throwing to his left, where many of those mistakes occurred; lastly, the coaching staff doesn't anticipate being as deficient defensively or giving up nearly as many points, so they won't have to push the envelope as much, putting him difficult situations where the team is playing catch up or trying to match the other offense. If the defense get a few more turnovers (see above) and Sefo limits his, that differential could lead directly to a win or two.

3) Can Toby Neinas get the special teams up to par?
His coverage teams have struggled in the past, so they will always cause me concern, but they had them shored up and the return units were also beginning to produce by season's end.   However, the most troublesome problem is that they will be breaking in a new punter and placekicker (not to mention holder), counting on a freshman for at least one of the jobs.  Field position is huge, especially in close games, not to mention extra points and field goals, so this group can greatly help or hinder the bowl game cause.  I don't know that there is any aspect of this group that is solid (Wyatt Smith at long snapper?), and although it does not have to be spectacular (although Phillip Lindsay, Shay Fields or a fast freshman returning a kick or two for TDs wouldn't hurt), they definitely need not to suck.  It is vital that the third phase does not become the obvious weak link while the offense and defense are actually competing.  The coaches don't seem to be too worried, but frankly, I am.

We won't really know how things are actually shaping up until we get to games, and probably not truly until the conference slate, but these are the stories and practice groups I am most interested in following.  I will also be keeping my eye on the defensive backs and how that intriguing group shakes out, plus they are generally one of my favorite groups to watch on the field.

Go Buffs!

Pre-camp Positional Outlook

We are about a week away from August camp opening and there is a lot to look forward to, as well as a lot to wonder about with Mike MacIntyre's third version of the Colorado Buffaloes.  The team returns more depth since anyone can remember, but there are still a lot of questions remaining as to who will be making the plays on the field this fall.  Here's a quick snapshot of each position group heading into the first practice August 5th.

Quarterbacks: This is probably the most straight forward group in that Sefo Liufau is the unquestioned starter, just needing to work on protecting the ball and continuing to execute the offense. Jordan Gehrke is the back-up, unless Cade Apsay or Steven Montez blow the roof off the doors.  The only wild card is if Montez does anything but straight redshirts.

Running Backs: Coach Clayton Adams returns a trio of experienced runners in Christian Powell, Michael Adkins and Phillip "the Tasmanian devil" Lindsay, all expecting and deserving of touches. They will all get some, especially early, but there are also two true freshmen who still have a say in Dino "don't call me Donald" Gordon and, the name everyone seems to be talking about, the class of 2015's last signing day addition, Patrick Carr. Both the could likely help out on special teams as well, but one will likely redshirt.  The intriguing wild card is Aaron Baltazar, who has yet to complete junior college work and enroll, diminishing his chances of making any impact this year.

Wide Receivers:  We all know about Nelson Spruce, Shay Fields and Bryce Bobo, but this offense will utilize many more than just three receivers.  At least three more, if not all of the following guys should get into the rotation: redshirt sophomore Devin Ross,  So. Donovan Lee, redshirt freshmen Lee Walker and Jay MacIntyre, and true frosh Justin Jan, who hopes to jump into Tyler McCulloch's role. The wild card for this group is incoming freshman Isaiah Oliver, who is going to try out with the receivers and cornerbacks.  All told, this is a very talented and versatile group that will get overlooked somewhat because of all of the other star power in the conference.

Tight Ends: Junior Sean Irwin is the probable first down starter here, but redshirt freshmen Hayden Jones and Dylan Keeney were expected to contribute last year, before injuries derailed their preseasons.  Keeney's size and pass-catching ability make him the most likely to get involved.  The wild card would have been Connor Center, but he has recently moved to offensive tackle, so true frosh Chris Bounds will have a chance to play this year.

Offensive Line: Sixty percent of this group is set with senior LT Stephane Nembot and juniors RT Jeromy Irwin and center Alex Kelley.  The questions are at guard but it appears that Soph. Gerrad Kough is settled at one guard spot while fellow soph Jonathon Huckins will still battle it out with heralded transfer Shane Callahan for the last spot, the loser becoming the sixth man.  Sully Wiefels and Sam Kronshrage are the other two that could possibly factor in.

Defensive Line: There are no less than SIXTEEN young men fighting for a place in this rotation that will likely use 10-12 on a regular basis, depending on how much 3-4 and 4-3 alignments they use. Without the suspended Josh Tupou, lone senior Justin Solis becomes the man in the middle at nose tackle and a lot will be expected of him.  The new and improved Samson Kafovalu is listed as the other starter inside, with JC transfer Jordan Carrell expected to get a lot of work. JC greyshirt Leo Jackson and sophomore Eddy Lopez the next two likely to get decent reps.  Clay Norgard could find his way onto the field for passing downs.  Jase Franke provides depth.
At defensive end the team returns two starters in Derek McCartney and Jimmie Gilbert.  Behind them is a stockpile of depth beginning with Tim Coleman and Jaleel Awini, who surprisingly has leapfrogged almost everyone after his position switch and a half (QB to LB to DE),  including the versatile D'Jon Wilson, a hopefully healthy Tyler Henington and Terran Hasselbeck (currently listed ahead of Henington). The last of the JC guys Blake Robbins plus highly touted Michael Matthewes sit well down the depth chart and face a tough road getting on the field.

Linebackers: The two rocks here are Addison Gillam, who by all accounts is healthy and ready to go, and Kenneth Olugbode.  Part of the answer as to who else plays is contained not just in how much 3-4 Jim Leavitt adds to the team's previous 4-3 alignment, but also how much nickel package is used (maybe more than anything else).  The hope is that Deysean Rippy somehow finally makes a fraction of the impact his cousin did and starts to live up to a portion of his four-star national hype. Howeverm there is a ton of depth here even though most of the following guys will have to make their impact on special teams: Rick Gamboa, Christian Shaver, Grant Watanabe, Travis Tailanko, Ryan Severson.

Defensive backs: You know this group is deep when sixth year senior Jered Bell (who was expected to be one of, if not the leader of the defense last year) is listed third on the depth chart at free safety, behind sophomores Evan White and transfer Afolabi Laguda (can also play corner). Tedric Thompson is the starter at strong safety and could actually be the key to this defense.  Many forget that not only did he have the team's only three interceptions last year, but when he got injured late against UCLA, the defense lost their mojo and the game, and then never really regained it the rest of the year.  They still have achievers (over) Ryan Moeller and (under) Marques Mosley to provide further depth.
At cornerback, we know Ken Crawley will start on one side, probably opposite Chidobe Awuzie, who is also the #1 nickel and could conceivably line up anywhere in the secondary if needed. Akhello Witherspoon and John Walker are right behind them both, leaving Yuri Wright, redshirt frosh Jaisen Sanchez plus true frosh Oliver (see WR) and Nick Wilson fighting for some field time.  The ones that can best support on special teams will also get to back up the defense.

Special Teams:  This whole group is a wild card and overall a scary prospect, especially with the coverage woes that Toby Neinas' previous units have produced.  The only piece set in virtual stone is true freshman Alex Kinney being anointed the punter.  The placekicking duties are completely wide open and make go right up to kickoff in Hawaii between Kinney, Mexican Diego Gonzalez and Chris Graham, who was recently awarded a scholarship.  Punt return is currently listed as Nelson Spruce OR Shay Fields, but some freshmen will certainly be given looks here, as well as at kickoff return, which is "TBA".  I am surprised that Phillip Lindsay is not listed here and would be more surprised if he was not one of the two guys lined up for the first kick.

Burn the Redshirt?

One of my favorite things to follow in August camp and the beginning of the season is how the true freshmen are doing and who is going to get a shot at playing time.  Fortunately, this is a year where the Buffaloes should not have to rely on a on of freshman help, barring (everyone knock on nearest wood) the dreaded injuries; however, this is a year where there appears to be a decent amount of depth at most position groups (see https://colorado.rivals.com/content.asp?SID=894&CID=618951
for full positional chart by "years").  No matter how good and deep the team is though, there will be a few brand new young faces who end up taking the field right away.  Granted, there is sure to be a few redshirt freshmen with a year of being on the team who are new to the field, but here's a look at the true frosh who have the best chance of contributing in 2015.

There are a few positions at which, unless there is a dire need or an unbelievably exceptional talent, all incoming freshmen will redshirt- offensive and defensive line (especially the first), and quarterback-and that should be the case here, where the two-deep is pretty set across the board with experienced players.  Guys like QB Montez as well as homegrown o-linemen Lynott and Middlemiss will almost certainly redshirt.

The one incoming frosh who is definitely being counted on is punter/kicker Alex Kinney, who is all but assured of the punting gig, and will compete with returners Diego Gonzalez and Chris Graham for the kickoff and FG/PAT duties.  If he wins all the jobs and holds them down for all four years, he could become one of the all-time Buff greats, but no pressure or anything.

The other guys most likely to play and make an impact right away are WR Justin Jan and athlete Isaiah Oliver, who is going to be given shot at both DB and WR.  Jan is basically the biggest receiver the Buffs will have and hopes to learn the playbook and perform well enough to take over Tyler McCulloch's role of big-slot-not-quite-tight-end receiver.  Oliver is immediately one of the fastest guys on the team and has a great shot at playing special teams and either of the above position groups, depending where he looks best and is needed most.

RBs Patrick Carr and Donald Gordon each have a shot at playing time (but not both) as the offense could easily use a fourth back with the trio of Powell, Adkins and Lindsay, all of whom have had injury woes in the past.  Each frosh could also contribute on special teams.  Boise St. transfer Aaron Balthazar was also thought to be in the mix for action, but has yet to complete the necessary junior college coursework to enroll at CU and will be late to camp at best, making it that much more likely that one of the true frosh will play.

Linebacker Grant Watanabe is an interesting case as he greyshirted last season and delayed enrollment until January, not because they needed him to or he needed to put on weight, but because of injury.  He is back healthy with some spring ball under his belt, albeit amidst a pretty crowded LB depth chart.  He is the type that could make an impact (young LBs often do) on multiple special teams units.

There are a few others that have a chance to make the traveling team and get on the field.  LB/DE NJ Falo is guy that just might fight his way onto the field.  Nick Fischer, if he can display some speed and instinct could break into the defensive secondary where, dare I say it, there seem to always be some injuries.  Lastly, especially since everyone's intriguing sleeper tight end pick Connor Center moved to o-tackle, Chris Bounds absolutely has an opening to earn some playing time in an offense that needs tight ends, often can employ two, and desperately needs some pass catching there.

I am going to put the over/under on redshirts burning on 4.5 and am inclined to take the over.  Starting with the Hawaii game (or in the morning if I fall asleep) I will tweet out each true frosh getting on the field with a #BurnTheRedShirt.  I am hoping it is just five or six at the most this year.

Under the Radar Return

I can't believe that I have yet to make a post in 2015, so I have entitled my return to the blog as an "Under the Radar Return" and will give my thoughts on a few players that I believe to be under the radar for the Buffs, a little more than a month before August camp for the 2015 season begins.

    There has been a lot written lately (CU at the Game, the Camera) about the CU defensive line, how even amidst the news that would-be anchor tackle Josh Tupou has been lost for (at least) the season due to undisclosed disciplinary reasons, the group still has excellent depth and potential to improve this defense overall.  There is certainly reason for optimism with a new defensive coordinator who has a solid dozen (or more) guys who could be part of the rotation.  Line coach Jim Jeffcoat brings back most of the other main players from last year (Derek McCartney, Justin Solis, Jimmie Gilbert, Christian Shaver), adds three junior college players (Jordan Carell, Blake Robbins, Leo Jackson), plus Samson Kafovalu (personal) and Tyler Henington (injury), and still has junior D'Jon Wilson and a slew of younger players itching to get on the field.
    However, there is one of these young players of whom we have heard surprisingly little about-redshirt freshman Michael Mathewes, a recruit originally heralded by coaches Jim Jeffcoat and Mike MacIntyre, as well as the Rivals' boys and others, as the freshman that could play right away last year, yet he never got on the field and was able to redshirt instead. I am not sure how much he weighs these days, but he is likely one of the guys that could play some outside linebacker when the team goes 3-4. At the minimum he should factor into special teams.  Two other names to watch for on the defensive line will be end Markeis Reed, who lost most of last season to a back injury in camp, and Eddy Lopez, a big sophomore tackle who will have to be counted on to offset the loss of Tupou.
    One more defensive player that is going slightly under the radar in my opinion is S Jered Bell, a sixth year senior who was expected to be one of the leaders of the defense last year before suffering the second preseason year-ending knee injury of his career. As he watched from the sidelines though, the Buffaloes developed a deep stable of defensive backs and Bell does not have a guaranteed spot in the lineup, although it is hard to see a rotation without him.  Part of his role will depend on where the coaching staff decides to use the versatile Chidobe Awuzie, who could truly play any of the DB positions.  Ken Crawley is a consensus pick to man one corner, but after those two it is wide open with many players vying for or even expecting playing time this season: Tedric Thompson, Evan White, Akhello Witherspoon, John Walker). The most likely place would be for Bell to be fifth man, coming in at safety when Chido moves to nickel, which could actually be the starting line up for more than a few games.  [Interesting fact on Bell: this summer, he took a Master's level class on bilingual education.]
    I don't know if K Diego Gonzalez is really under the radar, but it seems that most people expect incoming freshman Alex Kinney to win not just the punting job but also the place-kicking duties.  Maybe I am just pulling for Gonzalez because of his awesome story, how as a very under the radar recruit out of Monterrey, Mexico, he had shown a very powerful leg and garnered himself a scholarship offer at a big school in the United Sates.  He was given a couple chances at kickoffs last year, but may have tried a little too hard and did not get off the greatest of kicks.  I am hoping he will win at least that kickoff job this year, and maybe get a shot at some points kicks as well.
    On offense, QB Sefo Liufau has many returning weapons, with three of the top RBs ready to fight it out for carries and a slew of wide receivers from known commodities Nelson Spruce, Shay Fields and Bryce Bobo, to young guns Devin Ross, Donovan Lee and Lee Walker of whom we have only seen flashes.  However, the most intriguing offensive position for me is the tight end, which could be deadly in this system, especially taking advantage of the attention defenses have to pay to the above names. Sean Irwin will almost assuredly be the starter, but I don't think he will be the main pass catching target at tight end.  Redshirt freshmen Hayden Jones and Dylan Keeney will garner a lot of attention, but I am really curious to see if the coaches find a way to work the raw size and talent of Connor Center into the lineup.  If he has developed any touch with his hands and learned some basic routes and blocking responsibilities, he could be an excellent target over the middle and in short yardage and goal line situations.  If not, could incoming true freshman Chris Bounds make enough of an impression to burn his redshirt?
    Lastly, though none of these guys are currently "under the radar" by any means, the four candidates for the two vacant offensive guard spots could be the most crucial cogs in how good this offense can be and how far the team can go.  Last Fall, it was widely speculated that newcomers Shane Calllahan and Sully Wiefels would take over for the two graduating seniors, Kawaii Crabb and Daniel Munyer. However, when Jeromy Irwin went down, it was Gerald Kough came from under the radar to overtake everyone else and become the sixth man for the line last year, and he therefore looks to be one of the new starters.  That last spot is wide open, but my gut feeling is that Jonathon Huckins is going to end up grabbing it ahead of the higher profile, older transfers.
   If all of these highlighted mentions can reach their potential and make an impact this year, they just might be the difference in Mike MacIntyre's third Colorado team getting over the hump and squeezing out the necessary seven wins to earn themselves a bowl game.  There, I've said it, not sayin' its probable, but it is possible.

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