5 observations about Deion Sanders' Colorado that may trouble the team in the 2024 CFB season
Colorado averted disaster in a season-opening 31-26 win over North Dakota State but that won't be good enough moving forward. Sure, the Big 12 isn't the SEC or the Big Ten; however, Colorado has some major issues to correct this season. Here are five troubling observations from Week 1.
5 observations about Colorado that may trouble the team in 2024
1. The run game is still MIA
Last season, Colorado was last in FBS with 69 rushing yards per game and 2.3 yards per carry. In Week 1, not much changed as the team only had 59 rushing yards and 2.6 yards per carry. Winning games one-dimensionally will be a major challenge.
2. The run defense wasn't great.
The other side of the coin is that not only do the Buffaloes not run well, but they also don't stop the run well. NDSU rushed 43 times for 157 yards. While 3.7 yards per carry is reasonable, allowing the Bison to run at will led to Colorado only having the ball for 23 minutes which could be costly in close games.
3. The passing defense was also bad.
North Dakota State was smart about passing the ball. Colorado allowed just over 12 yards per pass but NDSU went 20-for-24, so there were only four incomplete passes. That kind of pass defense won't work in the Big 12. Considering the talent in the Buffaloes' secondary, it's surprising to see these struggles.
4. Colorado has to learn to control clock.
In the fourth quarter, Colorado looked completely lost trying to milk the clock. Nobody expected the Buffs to come out and grind out yards but they need to learn how to milk it. Whether it's buffing up the ground game or mastering short-yardage throws to keep the clock running, Colorado needs a better game plan — and they'll need it quickly.
5. Red-zone offense could be an issue.
In four red-zone trips, Colorado came away with just two touchdowns. Of the 29 FBS teams who have already played, that ties Colorado for 24th with only one team doing worse in converting red zone trips into touchdowns.
Shedeur Sanders' interception, the only turnover of the game, came on an ill-advised red zone pass. Detail work will be the difference in Big 12 play for the Buffs and they got off to a poor start.
What did you think of Colorado's Week 1 performance? Share your impressions and concerns below in the comments section!