Excellent; Coach Prime and Colorado are on “work-in-progress.” ahead of Spring Ball
March has arrived at last. While a lot of people are focused on Pro Days and the excitement of basketball, Coach Prime and the Buffs are gearing up for another season in Boulder.
The spring practice phase commences on March 18, and marks Colorado’s return to the field. The current team showcases noticeable differences from last year’s squad – although they retain key players like Travis Hunter and the Sanders brothers. Nevertheless, there are some fresh faces that have not yet been revealed; notably Jordan Seaton who is an essential addition to their offensive line-up as a five-star recruit from IMG Academy. This upgrade will offer great support for quarterback Shedeur Sanders in his final season before heading into the highly anticipated 2025 NFL Draft by keeping him upright while enabling him to optimize his performance potential.
Despite being sacked nearly 60 times last year, Sanders broke CU’s single-season record with 3,230 passing yards and threw for 27 touchdowns while also leading the team in rushing. The defense has improved which should take some of the pressure off Sanders and the offense. Additionally, two new four-star recruits – Drelon Miller and Kamron Mikell – will contribute to a strengthened secondary alongside Hunter who plays both offenses.
Although Colorado’s offense heavily relied on their standout QB and versatile player, Jimmy Horn Jr. is aiming to elevate his performance following his Junior year. With the presence of Vanderbilt’s Will Sheppard and FAU’s LaJohntay Wester, this squad has potential for greater versatility. While there are plenty of skilled players present in the offensive line-up, additional depth is required at the tight end position as CU managed to bolster almost every other aspect of their attack but still require some more talent amongst its blocking ends.
The addition of Chamon Mateyer, a transfer from Cincinnati, is expected to provide a much-needed boost for the team. However, it’s worth noting that during last year’s season Michael Harrison – one of our tight ends – tied for second in touchdown receptions (5) and ranked fifth overall on the team with 34 receptions. This suggests that we’re in dire need of more depth at tight end: not only would this benefit us when passing but also help improve our non-existent run game which requires an upgrade after last season’s shortcomings.
Despite the shortage in their tight end department, Sanders and his team remain optimistic about their chances to thrive within the Big 12 league. Their optimism is largely fueled by several new acquisitions on defense – most notably Brandon Davis-Swain, a highly-rated four-star defensive lineman who will be joined by other strong players like Eric Brantley (also a lineman) and Kyeran Garcia (a linebacker). Although they may face North Dakota State at an initial disadvantage this season, Colorado’s sturdy defensive lineup should allow them to hold up well against opponents overall.
Although their defensive attack was initially ineffective, the team has bolstered its pass rushing capabilities and afforded themselves a renewed opportunity. Although sacks are valuable additions to any defense, generating more offensive possessions remains paramount. By consistently applying pressure and swarming to the ball carrier, this Big 12 squad will surely become renowned for their tenacity on defense.
As the Sanders era enters its second year, numerous uncertainties persist. However, a fresh set of players and unshakable faith in their identity will quell any skepticism from detractors.
