Colorado Daily – Spring Practices

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Colorado Daily – Spring Practices

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April 14th 

… CU in a few minutes … 

Get your gear laid out: CU announces game themes for 2026 season

From CUBuffs.com … Colorado Athletics has unveiled the themes that will be a part of all six 2026 home football games, including the return of fan-favorites like the Black & Gold Stripe Out and a halftime drone show. Two-game mini plans are also on sale beginning today, giving fans the chance to lock in their seats to any two home games of their choice, excluding Family Weekend, before single-game tickets go on sale on May 5.

The home schedule kicks off with “Buffs Wear White” on Sept. 12 against Weber State before CU celebrates Homecoming and the 150th Anniversary of the university on Oct. 3. Fans attending the homecoming game against Texas Tech will be striping out the stadium in black and gold for what is one of most anticipated games of the 2026 Big 12 schedule.

Family weekend and Latin & Hispanic Heritage Celebration take place on Oct. 17 when the Buffaloes host Utah in the annual “Gold Rush” game followed by a Halloween match-up against Kansas State on Oct. 31 that features Military Appreciation and a CU Hall of Fame Celebration.

The home slate wraps up with two games in November, including a Friday night tussle with the Houston Cougars on Nov. 13. In addition to a “Buffs Wear Black” game, halftime festivities will include a spectacular drone show in partnership with the Colorado Tourism Office. Finally, the 2026 regular season comes to a close on Nov. 28 with Senior Day and Fan Appreciation against UCF.

With a full lineup of fun themes, it’s also a great time to purchase a Pick Two mini-plan. Fans can choose between any two home games, excluding the Family Weekend game on Oct. 17, for one affordable price. For more information or to purchase, please visit the football ticket page.

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April 13th 

… CU in a few minutes … 

CU roster at 95, with room to grow – “At every position, we’ll take as many good players as we can get”

From the Daily Camera … On Saturday, the Buffs had 95 players on the roster, just 10 below the NCAA roster limit of 105. In addition, CU has two signed prep players who will arrive this summer – running back Cam Newton and receiver Jacob Swain – and three other players who are verbally committed.

While players don’t have the option of going into the transfer portal this spring, CU and other teams can sign players who are already in the portal and unsigned.

Offensive coordinator Brennan Marion said last week the Buffs are likely to add at least one quarterback, since there are only three on the roster.

The Buffs are also thin on numbers at defensive line, with eight, but that includes New Mexico State transfer Ezra Christensen, who is currently out of eligibility. Christensen and the Buffs are hoping he will receive a waiver to get another year of eligibility, but it’s possible he won’t be able to play, leaving CU with seven defensive linemen.

Another potential area of concern, as far as depth, is inside linebacker. The Buffs have a senior trio of transfers – Gideon Lampron, Liona Lefau and Tyler Martinez – but three true freshmen behind them. It’s possible CU will look to add a veteran to that room.

Asked last week about possibly adding depth to the defensive line, coordinator Chris Marve said, “At every position, we’ll take as many good players as we can get. As many as Coach Prime will allow us to have on defense, because I believe and we believe that competition only makes people better.”

With the roster mostly set, however, Sanders believes the Buffs are further along in their preparation for the season than in the past.

“Well, you’re already farther along because you know what you got, you know what you need to work on, you know the players that need to improve,” he said. “We know what we gotta work on, we know what guys gotta step it up. … They might not be those guys that we thought they were, but they still have time to get bigger, stronger, faster and understand the playbook.

“Overall, out of all the positions, I may want a couple of positions to step it up a bit. Other than that, I like where we are. I really do.”

… Read full story here …

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April 12th 

… CU in a few minutes … 

Coach Prime’s post-Spring game press conference 

Post-game press conference … From BuffsTV … Coach Prime: “We’ve got some good things going on … You can see the fruit thereof. The hardest thing to measure – when the offense is doing well, that means the defense is not doing well … The main thing is you don’t want to get anybody hurt … I think we got two strained MCL’s (including starting tight end Zach Atkins). They didn’t tear them, so we’re going to be okay …

On the two new coordinators: It’s not just the X’s and O’s, but how they relate to the players … These guys know how to motivate. They have exceeded all of my expectations …

This was the first time that all of the coaches had the opportunity to communicate … Down and distance, everyone playing their roles … You’ve got to be on your game. You’ve got to be on point …

We’ve got a lot of speed at the receiver position … We’re going to get more players back this summer (from injury) …

We’ve already had our exit meetings with the players. We know what we need to work on. We know which players have to step up … Overall, out of all of the positions. I may want a couple of positions to step up, but I like where we are …

Freshman Elliot Arnold is the guy (at kicker) … He’s going to surprise a lot of guys in this room … He’s really stepped it up …

Each year, the offensive line has gotten a little better … We have probably eight or nine guys who are fighting to start … We’re going to be all right, running the football. It’s just a matter of who is going to be those two guys (at running back) ….

My health is good (blood clots a few weeks ago. Coach Prime missed a few days of practice) … I’m going to be here, especially with the corners … It’s different when I’m here … Everyone inside these doors can tell you that it’s different when I’m here. I will be going fishing, but I’ll be here …

We have a tremendous fan base. We have a tremendous student body … We still have a lot of people out there who are excited about CU football …We’re going to make this better. We’re not trying to make it better. We’re making it better …

Also … Wide receiver Danny Scudero and cornerback Mojo Williams …

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April 11th 

… CU in a few minutes …

Spring Game, 2026: “We got some good things going on. I think you can see the fruit thereof”

From the Daily Camera … Offensively, there weren’t many fireworks, other than Lewis’ sensational pass to Scudero for the lone touchdown, but there were some efficient and productive plays.

Lewis, projected as the starter at quarterback, unofficially completed 5-of-9 passes for 57 yards. The redshirt freshman looked more comfortable than he did in last year’s spring game.

“He was a lot better,” Sanders said. “And I think that’s very easy to obtain when you got Danny Scudero on your side. He is a dawg, and having a comfort level with the playbook and the way (offensive coordinator Brennan) Marion communicates on the set. You gotta understand that was the first time that all the coaches got an opportunity to communicate (on the headsets).”

Coming off a disappointing 3-9 season in 2025 and rebuilding with 59 new players this spring, CU didn’t draw a lot of buzz for this year’s spring game.

It was the first of Sanders’ four spring games to not be televised, although it was streamed on YouTube.

Unlike the previous three years, CU didn’t charge for tickets. Officially, 27,772 tickets were claimed, which would make it the third-most “attended” spring game in CU history, behind the 2023 and 2024 games. However, BuffZone estimates that roughly 10,000 tickets were used.

Around the country, many programs have cancelled spring games and Sanders said that plays a role in the decreased interest in CU’s game.

“No one’s valuing spring anymore,” he said. “The only thing that would bring that back is we compete against another school, and I’ve been saying that for the last several years.”

CU’s disappointing season in 2025 played a role, too, though.

“Winning also helps increase that, but people get tired of the same old, same old at a certain point and you want more,” he said.

He also acknowledged it’s tough for fans to get to know players when there’s so much movement in the transfer portal every year. Yet, he was appreciative of the thousands of fans who did show up to watch and enjoy Black & Gold Day.

… Continue reading story here …

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Full Itinerary for Black and Gold Showcase

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April 10th 

… CU in a few minutes … 

One year after cancer diagnosis, Coach Prime: “I believe I enjoy life more”

From the Daily Camera … Next Tuesday will mark the anniversary of an important moment in the life of Colorado head football coach Deion Sanders.

It was on April 14, 2025, that Sanders was diagnosed with bladder cancer.

“It’s not like I’m going to bake a cake and celebrate that mess,” he said this week when asked about the anniversary approaching. “But, thank you for reminding me as well. I’m happy, man; it did change my outlook on certain things in life.”

In the ensuing months, Sanders had surgery to remove the bladder and the cancer, while having a new bladder created with his small intestine, and he spent several weeks recovering.

Preparing for his fourth season at CU’s head coach, Sanders said he feels good, and that the diagnosis has made an impact on him.

“I believe I enjoy life more,” he said. “I believe I experience – I try my best to experience – more things. I try my best to really be the greatest father that ever walked with eight toes. My kids are everything to me, you all know that, and I try my best to give them the type of attention and time and affection, protection, and correction that they may need and want.”

… Continue reading story here …

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Defensive coordinator Chris Marve: “I think we really established an identity this spring”

From CUBuffs.com … Defensive coordinator Chris Marve: “I think we really established an identity this spring. I think the guys bought into what we were trying to preach and what we believe in.”

That identity, he said, is rooted in four defining traits: violence, speed, intelligence and relentless effort.

“We want to be violent and aggressive,” Marve said. “We want to play extremely fast. We have to play smart. Can’t beat yourself. And then at the end of the day, you have to have relentless effort.”

Marve said several defenders emerged as consistent performers once the pads came on, including Tyler Martinez, Gideon Lampron and Liona Lefau, while adding that the defensive front continues to make progress as the staff molds the unit into an aggressive, disciplined group.

“I think we have some good players up front,” Marve said. “We still have some work to do naturally, but I feel pretty good about that.”

Just as important as the on-field development, Marve emphasized, has been the process of bringing together a defense filled with new faces. With so many players learning a new system and playing alongside teammates they had only recently met, communication and intentional relationship building became a priority from day one.

“We took a lot of time to be really intentional in figuring each other out,” Marve said. “That way, when the tension or the adversity of football does come, you know who you’re standing next to.”

… Continue reading story here …

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April 9th

… CU in a few minutes … 

OC Brennan Marion: “We’re definitely going to be explosive this year” (just not on Saturday)

From the Daily Camera … From youth football on up, Brennan Marion has seen his offense work.

The creator of the Go-Go offense has made it work in different ways, too, and with different types of players.

That’s why the first-year offensive coordinator of the Colorado Buffaloes is confident as spring practices near the finish line. CU will wrap up spring ball with the annual Black & Gold Day on Saturday at 1 p.m. at Folsom Field.

“We’re definitely going to be explosive on offense this year,” Marion said Thursday, after the Buffs’ completed their 14th practice of spring.

Don’t expect to see much of that explosiveness on Saturday, though.

“It’ll be vanilla,” he said. “Sorry fans, it’ll be vanilla.”

During his coaching career, Marion’s offense has rarely looked vanilla on game day.

Prior to this year, Marion has been either a coordinator or head coach for six seasons at four different schools (Howard, William & Mary, UNLV and Sacramento State). His offenses averaged at least 29.9 points in all but one of those seasons. The exception was William & Mary posting 25.3 points per game in 2019, but that was nearly a 12-points per game improvement over the previous year.

… Continue reading story here …

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April 8th

… CU in a few minutes … 

Coach Prime: “It’s an open competition at every position” – including quarterback

From the Daily Camera … In 2023 and 2024, Colorado head coach Deion Sanders often made it clear there were only two players on the roster with guaranteed starting spots.

Quarterback Shedeur Sanders and cornerback/receiver Travis Hunter were two of the biggest stars in the country, so there was no question they’d be starting.

“It’s not like that right now,” Sanders said Tuesday of this year’s squad. “Everybody is earning everything they get, including their money.”

As the Buffs approach the end of spring football practices, which wraps up Saturday, there are no guaranteed starters, and that includes at quarterback, where former five-star recruit JuJu Lewis and Utah transfer Isaac Wilson are battling.

“It’s an open competition for every position,” Sanders said. “You want every position to have pressure applied; like, you want those battles.”

Lewis, a redshirt freshman, came to CU as a highly touted recruit a year ago and sat behind senior Kaidon Salter most of the year. Lewis played in four games, with two starts late in the season, completing 52 of 94 passes for 589 yards and four touchdowns.

Still just 18 years old, as he graduated from high school a year early, Lewis continues to progress.

“His game is developing daily and I’m proud of the strides that he’s making both as a potential leader as well as a quarterback that we can really count on from start to finish,” Sanders said. “I’m proud of the young man.”

The younger brother of New Orleans Saints quarterback Zach Wilson, Isaac has had a good spring.

“Isaac can play, man,” Sanders said. “Isaac is applying pressure, man, but that’s what you want.”

… Continue reading story here …

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April 7th

… CU in a few minutes … 

**Quotes from Coach Prime’s Pre-Spring Game Press Conference**

From BuffsTV.com … CU will have split teams for the Spring Game on Saturday … Teams were chosen early so there wouldn’t be speculation about “oh, he’s the starter” … I think we’ve gotten better everywhere, starting with me … We have a tremendous staff … Two new coordinators who have a track record of doing well … Glad to not have a second Transfer Portal – We know the hand that we have been dealt … I hope the Transfer Portal format stays as is … New AD Fernando Lovo – We’ve had a multitude of candid conversations … We made mistakes at certain positions last year … This year, targeted not just talent but the right mentality … If a player wasn’t satisfied in what they had here, would we really want them? I’m happy for all of them … We like the hand that we were dealt … This year, we have 12-15 players who were captains on their teams. That shows leadership … Boo Carter is arguably the most talented player on the team, and may play multiple positions, including corner …

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April 6th

… CU in a few minutes … 

Offensive line coach Gunnar White on the Go-Go offense: “They make it super easy for the offensive line”

From YouTube, courtesy of BuffStampede.com … The offensive line coaches, including Gunnar White, welcome back five returners, including Yahya Attia and Chauncey Gooden.

“The way they are bonding together right now, stands out now that we are in Week 4 of spring ball,” White said. “We have done a couple bonding things as offensive linemen. Like, Bo (Hughley), he had everybody over at his house this past weekend and cooked for everybody.

“I thought that was neat. Because it is hard to play together as an offensive line if you don’t have a relationship.”

Gunnar White on the Go-Go offense – “I love it. They make it super easy for the offensive line as far as the calls. There are 100’s of plays for the entire offense but for us, we hear like maybe 25-30 things; for us to know and memorize. It is just repeated over and over again so you get a good memory bank of plays and reps.”

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April 5th

… CU in a few minutes … 

Yahya Attia the “Swiss army knife” of the CU offensive line: “Whatever you need him to do, he’s gonna do”

From the Daily Camera … Plenty of Colorado players have made multiple stops during their collegiate careers. It’s the new normal in college football.

None of them, however, have logged miles quite like offensive lineman Yahya Attia.

Attia was born in Egypt and spent much of his youth in Austria. A product of the NFL Academy in London, Attia joined the Buffs in 2024 and almost immediately became a favorite of head coach Deion Sanders thanks to an engaging personality and tireless work ethic. Attia played only five offensive snaps as a true freshman, ultimately taking a redshirt year, but his continued development led to a bigger impact last season.

Attia played in 10 games, logging four starts, while displaying an impressive level of versatility for a player who only started playing American football in 2022. Attia spent time at both guard spots, center, and even tight end when the Buffs needed an extra blocker.

Attia wasn’t charged with a single sack allowed in 326 snaps on the offensive line.

“He’s a Swiss Army knife, man,” CU offensive line coach Gunnar White. “Whatever you need him to do, he’s gonna do. And he’s not gonna buck you, he’s not gonna do anything crazy, he’s gonna do exactly what you tell him to do. And if he does mess up, he’s in my office I’d say almost every day unless he’s got a tough exam or paper or something like that. And we’re always on the same page and getting him cleaned up and corrected and he’s good to go.”

… Continue reading story here …

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April 4th

… CU in a few minutes … 

CU supplements the defensive line roster with a transfer edge rusher, Sam Gadie

Sam Gadie is a 6’3″, 235-pound edge rusher from Trenton, New Jersey. A member of the Recruiting Class of 2022, Gadie was unrated, but did still sign with Rutgers. As a transfer, Rivals/On3Sports has Gadie listed as a three-star prospect, listed as the No. 321 linebacker in the Portal, the No. 3392 prospect in the Portal overall.

From BuffInsider.com … Sam Gadie spent his first three college seasons (2022-24) at Rutgers, but did not see any playing time. The Trenton, New Jersey, native then transferred to Monroe University in New York, where he totaled 13 tackles, eight TFLs and 4.5 sacks in six games last season.

Standing 6-foot-3 and 235 pounds, the junior college transfer is set to join head coach Deion Sanders’ program this summer ahead of the 2026 season. He has two seasons of eligibility remaining. (Gadie is graduating this spring from Monroe University, making him eligible to play right away).

As a senior at Trenton Central High School, Gadie totaled over 70 tackles while also recording eight sacks and three interceptions. Rutgers signed Gadie to its 2022 recruiting class as a linebacker.

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Defensive lineman Dylan Manuel – Line has one goal: “Stop the run”

From CUBuffs.com … Transfer defensive lineman Dylan Manuel said the tone in the room has been clear from the start.

“It’s really fast paced,” Manuel said. “Everybody is going hard every play, running to the ball. That’s been a big emphasis here.”

For Manuel, the goal this spring is simple.

“Stop the run,” he said. “That’s the main goal. Just stopping the run and earning the right to rush the passer. Just having a great defensive spring.”

Manuel said the chemistry among the defensive tackles has come together quickly despite the number of newcomers.

“It’s been great just getting to know each other and each other’s tendencies and how to play with each other,” he said. “Playing with different guys is building the chemistry.”

He also praised Carter’s leadership style and daily investment in the room.

“He’s a great coach, and he’s going to be hard on you,” Manuel said. “He pushes you 100 percent every day. He wants the best out of you.”

Manuel originally arrived in Boulder after being recruited by the previous defensive line coach, but he said the transition has only reinforced the need to adapt.

“It’s all about overcoming adversity and how you adapt to it,” Manuel said. “Just really getting to know the new coach and changing to it.”

His path to Colorado has included stops at Charleston Southern and Appalachian State, each step moving him closer to the level he believed he could reach.

“I was under recruited out of high school,” Manuel said. “I always wanted to play at the FBS level, and then I always had a dream of playing at the Power Four level. I just kept taking shots on myself, and now I’m here.”

Manuel described his game in direct terms that match what Colorado wants from its front.

“Really just stop the run,” he said. “Create knockback, let the linebackers come down and make the play, or I make the play. Really helping the linebackers out and creating free gaps for them.”

… Continue reading story here …

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April 3rd 

… CU in a few minutes …

Defensive line coach Dante’ Carter: Eligibility of Ezra Christiansen remains up in the air

From BuffInsider.com … Navigating his first spring as Colorado’s head defensive line coach, former analyst Dante’ Carter spoke with the media on Friday about the state of his room.

Perhaps most notably, Carter shared an update on New Mexico State transfer Ezra Christensen’s fight for a sixth year of college eligibility. Christensen committed to the Buffs in January and has been practicing this spring, but his status for next season remains uncertain, as the former junior college transfer still needs a waiver from the NCAA.

“Right now, he has a situation that we’re trying to figure out,” Carter said. “We’re still working through it. I’m very excited to see what he’s going to do for us in the fall once we get his situation taken care of.”

Regardless of Christensen’s status, Carter hopes to see his interior defensive line improve against the run. The Buffs regressed in that area last season, but Appalachian State transfer Dylan Manuel and other newcomers have helped make run defense a priority.

“Stop the run, that’s the main thing,” said Manuel, who had 37 tackles last season. “Stopping the run and earning the right to rush the passer. It’s been a great defense this spring.”

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April 2nd

… CU in a few minutes … 

CU offensive line a work in progress: “We’re switching them around so that way they stay hungry”

From the Daily Camera … Every year during the Deion Sanders era at Colorado, the offensive line has been a retooled group.

This year is no different, but as the Buffaloes go through spring practices, they are pleased with the progress.

“Just kind of the way that they’re bonding together right now,” offensive line coach Gunnar White said. “We’re in week four. We’ve had a couple of bonding things, just as offensive linemen. Like Bo (Hughley), he had everybody over at his house this past weekend, he cooked for everybody. I thought that was a pretty neat thing. ’Cause it’s hard for an O-line to play together if you don’t have a relationship.”

CU returns just one full-time starter from last year’s line, as senior Larry Johnson made eight starts at right tackle. Yahya Attia made four starts and Andre Roye made two.

Eight transfers were brought in this offseason to compete for spots, and there’s a chance it could be an entirely new group of five by the time the season opener rolls around on Sept. 3.

Transfers Leon Bell (California), Taj White (Rutgers) and Hughley (Georgia) are experienced starters from their previous stops. So is Jayven Richardson (Missouri), but he’s been injured this spring.

“We’re moving guys around, left and right, making sure that they’re versatile,” White said. “We’re switching them around so that way they stay hungry. And we gotta have two of them that come out and dominate at the end of the day. ’Cause without that, they’re gonna keep fighting and fighting and fighting until we do name them.”

… Continue reading story here …

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April 1st

… CU in a few minutes … 

Video: “Keep the Faith – History of CU Football”

… Ten minutes of memories … from the national championship game to the Miracle in Michigan to Rashaan Salaam’s run to 2,000 to Chris Brown’s six touchdowns against Nebraska … The film is pre-Coach Prime, Shedeur and Travis, but worth your time … 

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CU 2026 NFL Showcase Pro Day Player Numbers

Name Pos 40-Yard Dash Vertical Jump Broad Jump Bench Press Shuttle Drill 3-Cone Drill
Anquin Barnes DL 5.01 29.0 8-10 27 4.80 7.75
Jeremiah Brown LB 4.85 30.0 9-7 — 4.62 7.39
Sincere Brown WR 4.38 33.5 10-0 10 4.46 7.15
Buck Buchanan K — — — — — —
Zy Crisler OL — 20.5 — 22 — —
Martavius French LB 4.84 30.0 9-6 9 4.65 7.70
Kameron Hawkins SN 5.50 21.0 — 13 4.95 8.22
Xavier Hill OL 4.99 30.0 8-10 26 4.81 7.60
Preston Hodge DB 4.56 32.0 10-0 14 4.27 —
Reggie Hughes LB 4.78 29.0 9-9 19 4.41 7.00
Tristan Marois LB — 31.0 10-0 — 4.83 7.70
Alejandro Mata K — — — — — —
Zarian McGill OL — 19.5 7-11 22 — —
Amari McNeill DL — — — 24 — —
Kaidon Salter QB 4.63 35.5 10-6 — 4.26 7.23
Mana Taimani OL 5.31 23.5 8-8 18 5.14 8.36
Keaton Wade LB 4.64 33.5 9-8 15 4.40 7.14
Arden Walker DE 4.76 31.0 9-6 22 4.40 7.20
Ivan Yates DB 4.59 35.0 10-3 15 4.31 7.28

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March 31st 

… CU in a few minutes … 

Defensive back Boo Carter is “one of the most talented guys I’ve ever coached, besides Travis (Hunter)”

From the Daily Camera … On the field, there is no doubt Boo Carter has talent.

Off the field issues, however, led to Carter’s time at Tennessee being cut short, which has led him to Colorado.

Now in his first spring with the Buffaloes, Carter is making a good impression.

“He’s probably going to be one of the most talented guys I’ve ever coached, besides Travis (Hunter),” CU nickel backs coach Kevin Mathis said.

A 5-foot-11, 200-pound defensive back, Carter was a four-star recruit coming out of high school in 2024 and had 46 scholarship offers, including from CU. He took two visits to CU in 2023 before signing with Tennessee, where he spent two seasons.

It was a rocky tenure at Rocky Top, though, as he was dismissed from Tennessee’s team in November.

According to the Knoxville News Sentinel, Carter missed several team workouts during the offseason leading up to the 2025 season and had to meet multiple requirements set forth by head coach Josh Heupel to remain on the team. He played in the first nine games, but in a reserve role.

CU took a chance on Carter because of his talent, while also believing it has the structure in place to give Carter a positive change of scenery.

“Yeah that was the first thing when he came to my office, ‘What can I do to help you?’” Mathis said. “‘Because we’re on this journey together. I want you to accomplish your dreams, your goals. I’m here to help you, but I can’t help you if you don’t let me help you.’”

… Continue reading story here …

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March 30th

… CU in a few minutes … 

With one day to go, Buff fans leaving $200,000 in matching funds on the table

Below is an email sent out to Buff fans last Tuesday. Six days later, the drive to get to 250 donors (much less 300) … is at … 120 donors … Check on status of CU Giving Day (March 31st) …

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• When we reach 250 donors, generous CU supporters Rob and Michelle Wilhite will contribute $50,000
• At 300 donors, we have another dedicated CU family that will contribute $150,000

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*Defensive Ends coach George Helow*

From YouTube, courtesy of BuffsTV … Coach George Helow: “We don’t have a depth chart. We have a rep chart. We’re changing up the groups practice to practice. You get what you earn. Um, we have very high standards and expectations. And, uh, if you don’t practice a certain way, um, we go on to the next guy. So, we’re mixing it up.”

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March 29th

… CU in a few minutes … 

Cornerbacks coach Kevin Mathis: “We’re going to depend on everybody in that secondary going forward”

From the Daily Camera …While it’s far too early to project who will top the rotation in the secondary for the Buffs, the back end of the defense likely will feature a new look full of young talent. RJ Johnson and Makari Vickers are returnees for the Buffs and combined for five starts, but both missed several games due to injuries. Ashley is competing alongside a number of transfers, including redshirt freshmen Jason Stokes (Utah) and Cree Thomas (Notre Dame). CU cornerbacks coach Kevin Mathis said this past week he expects the Buffs to lean heavily on youth this season.

“This actually is the first time since I’ve been here that we’re really counting on those guys to come in and play now,” Mathis said. “They’ve got that type of ability. Most of the time that we’ve been here, we’ve required the transfer guys to come in and be something. Even our transfers that have been playing great like Cree, he’s a redshirt freshman. Stokes is a redshirt freshman. These guys are talented. We’ve just got to get them experience, and that’s what they’re getting right here in spring ball.

“We’re going to depend on everybody in that secondary going forward.”

… Read full story here …

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March 28th

… CU in a few minutes … 

Notre Dame transfer cornerback Cree Thomas turning heads: “I know that I can play”

From the Daily Camera … Throughout spring practices, Colorado quarterbacks haven’t been trying to throw the ball to Cree Thomas. In fact, they’d like to avoid it.

The redshirt freshman from Phoenix, however, keeps finding the ball in his hands.

“I don’t know how many takeaways he has right now,” cornerbacks coach Aaron Fletcher said this week. “It’s, like, insane.”

A transfer from Notre Dame, Thomas is angling for a starting role at cornerback and he’s turning heads so far this spring with his play-making ability.

“That’s definitely been my mindset and especially recently,” he said of making plays. “Ever since the spring started and even in the offseason I’ve just been thinking a lot, and I feel like I need to go make plays. Like, I can’t let it come to me, and so that’s kind of the mindset that I’m coming with this season, go make the play.”

Thomas spent the 2025 season learning from veterans, including All-American cornerback Leonard Moore, who was a finalist for the Jim Thorpe Award.

“I know that I can play,” he said. “I’m playing with confidence, and that’s through God. So that’s all I want to do is just come out here and play with confidence and show the world what I can do.”

… Read full story here …

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March 27th

… CU in a few minutes … 

*Cornerbacks coach Kevin Mathis and freshman cornerback Preston Ashley*

From YouTube, courtesy of BuffsTV … Preston Ashley: “I love Colorado… I I stayed here for spring break. I didn’t even want to go home, because this is my home, and I just love being here”

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Zach Atkins on CU’s “Go-Go” offense: “It’s every pass-catching tight end’s dream”

From the Daily Camera … As the Colorado football team sputtered to a 3-9 record during the 2025 season, players and coaches talked about the lack of leadership within the locker room.

Tight end Zach Atkins was adamant that would change.

Through the first two weeks of spring practices, Atkins is doing his part to make sure there is stronger leadership as the Buffaloes prepare for the 2026 campaign.

“Yeah, I think that started in the weight room all January and February,” said Atkins, a senior tight end. “I think it started with everything, with all our transfers and stuff, just welcoming them in and making sure that they feel good and at home.

“I think that starts with me leading my room and being the alpha in my room and then spreading that to the whole offense and then the whole team. So, it’s been a lot of fun, honestly.”

Atkins is determined to make this a great season for himself and the Buffs, and he’s looking for a big role not only as a leader, but within the new Go-Go offense installed by first-year coordinator Brennan Marion.

“It’s every pass-catching tight end’s dream,” Atkins said of the Go-Go, which relies on a strong run game and big passes. “I can do both (block and catch) and I’m working on doing both, but this offense has been unbelievable to learn and play in. … I can line up at number one, in the slot, or in the core. So just having that availability is awesome.”

… Continue reading story here …

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March 25th 

… CU in a few minutes … 

Cornerbacks coach Aaron Fletcher meets with the local media

From YouTube, courtesy of BuffsTV … Also … Cornerbacks RJ Johnson and Cree Thomas …

On the cornerbacks room in 2026…

RJ Johnson – “We’re very versatile, we have a lot of guys. They did a great job of bringing in guys that are hungry and want it. So it has been great to play alongside those guys and be in the room and get to know them.”

On the defense overall…

RJ Johnson – “We have a great unit. So there are a lot of plays being made on both sides of the ball. I feel like everybody is doing a great job of jelling together and just becoming one team for the ultimate goal of winning a championship in the fall. So I think it is coming along well.”

On newcomers Cree Thomas and Justin Eaglin…

“They have been great. Those two guys came in ready to learn, hungry. They are eager to play. So I feel like that is always great. They are very versatile. They can play outside and inside, so it has been great having those guys in the room. They are taking coaching well.”

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March 24th

… CU in a few minutes … 

Want to make a difference? “Buffs All In Day” next week

From CUBuffs.com …

• When we reach 250 donors, generous CU supporters Rob and Michelle Wilhite will contribute $50,000
• At 300 donors, we have another dedicated CU family that will contribute $150,000

Donate here

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CU inside wide receivers coach Rashad Davis: “We want to have a track team on grass” 

From YouTube, courtesy of BuffsTV … Also – inside receivers coach Rashad Davis, wide receivers Ernest Campbell and Quannell Farrakakan Jr

Rashad Davis – “Speed is the name of the game and we have it. We want to have a track team on grass. That’s what we have right now. When you think about those guys LaJohntay (Wester) and Jimmy (Horn Jr.), we feel that we went out and got the right guys, that can take on that production that did lose from them.

“When you are talking about a Danny (Scudero) and a Kam (Perry), you see the same exact things that you saw in the eyes of Jimmy Horn and LaJohntay Wester.”

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March 23rd

… CU in a few minutes … 

A total of 27 CU transfers in from non-Power Four schools: “We know they’re coming in with a chip on their shoulder”

From the Daily Camera … A native of LaGrange, Ohio, Gideon Lampron didn’t go far from home to begin his college journey.

There were days during his three years at Dayton, however, when Lampron just wanted more.

“I would wake up at my first school and I’d just be like, ‘I wish I was somewhere else,’” said Lampon, now a senior linebacker for the Colorado Buffaloes. “And everyone had that mentality, and now we’re here, and now we need to accomplish the goals we have.”

It wasn’t that Lampron didn’t like Dayton. In fact, he said, “I loved it there,” but like many young players, he grew up dreaming of playing big-time college football.

“I always had greater ambitions and the goal was always to play at the best level,” he said.

Lampron is one of 27 transfers for the Buffs this season that came from non-Power Four conference schools, with some coming from the FCS or junior college ranks. Now, they’re hoping to prove themselves at the highest level.

“We brought in dogs,” said receiver Kam Perry, who began is career at Indiana in 2023, but had his breakout at Miami-Ohio the last two years. “It’s guys that really want to be here, guys that put in the effort every day, and you see it every day. As a teammate, that’s what you like to see from your guys, like going to war with them.”

In the past, CU has had mixed results with players coming up from lower levels.

“When you take a bunch of guys that have a similar story like that, they’re going to strive for greatness,” Lampron said. “You know they’re going to come with a chip on their shoulder and compete every single day because they know what it’s like to wish to be here.”

Lampron once wished to be here, and now he wakes up every day living his dream of playing Power Four football.

… Read full story here …

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March 20th

… CU in a few minutes … 

Tight end coach Josh Niblett to try and make the position relevant at CU

From the Daily Camera … This past winter, after Josh Niblett had wrapped up his fourth season as the head football coach at Gainesville (Georgia) High School, he was asked a few times if he’d ever consider coaching in college.

“I said, ‘Look man, I feel like that’s kind of passed me by now,” he said.

Colorado head coach Deion Sanders disagreed. He called Niblett and offered an opportunity to join the Buffaloes’ staff and coach tight ends and Niblett accepted, arriving at CU in January.

A former all-state quarterback in Alabama and a three-time letter winner at the University of Alabama (1993-95), Niblett came to CU after 26 seasons as a head coach in the high school ranks.

Throughout his career at four different high schools in Alabama and Georgia, Niblett went 281-67 and he’s the only coach Alabama history to win seven state titles.

Although he’s not the head coach of an entire team, Niblett said, “I see myself as being the head coach of the tight end room. So, those guys are my responsibility on and off the field, how we perform, how we play. So, I take a lot of responsibility in that.”

It’s a room led by returning starter Zach Atkins, as well as four other returners – Brady Kopetz, Zayne DeSouza, Corbin Laisure and Charlie Williams. The Buffs added transfer Fisher Clements, from Northern Colorado, as well.

“The thing we talk about in our room is we want to figure out what our deficiencies are, what our strengths are,” Niblett said. “So, every day we show up we’re trying to find a better way to continue to take our strengths to another level and then whatever we need to do better, then it’s my job to help put a plan together for them so we have a process and a system to get them to where they want to be.”

… Read full story here …

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March 19th

… CU in a few minutes … 

ESPN: Transfer wide receiver Danny Scudero CU’s top impact transfer 

From ESPN … The Big 12 football landscape is being reshaped by 2026 newcomers. That includes some of the most high-profile transfers in the country, like Cincinnati quarterback Brendan Sorsby and Baylor quarterback DJ Lagway, as well as under-the-radar gems who could pop in bigger roles. Don’t forget the high-impact freshman additions, either.

Every program has at least one player who could swing next season’s race for a Big 12 championship. Below, we examine the most important newcomers for each team, breaking down the most critical Big 12 transfers and freshmen expected to make an immediate impact. This breakdown looks at why they matter and how their own coaches and GMs expect them to fit.

Colorado … WR Danny Scudero (San Jose State)

Why: Scudero is the most likely transfer to reshape Colorado’s offense in 2026. He broke out with 88 catches for 1,297 yards and 10 touchdowns in 2025, showing he can win consistently in multiple roles and produce in high‑leverage spots. He blends a sudden release, clean stems from the slot and elite ball skills, helping him pluck contested throws and turn short targets into 10- to 20-yard chunk gains after the catch. In a new offensive system directed by Brennan Marion that prioritizes pace and spacing concepts, Scudero’s reliability and playmaking address a specific deficiency the Buffaloes experienced last year: consistent interior production and chain‑moving skills.

What to expect: The Buffs to go from a bottom-five passing offense to a top-five in 2026 with Scudero being one of the Big 12’s top transfer portal additions. He projects as Julian Lewis’ primary quick‑game/slot read and the engine for offensive coordinator Marion’s RPO and option‑route concepts. He will function as the immediate safety valve on quick progressions, a high‑value target on screens, jets and shallow crossers and a seam threat on play‑action. Defenses must respect his quickness and YAC, which will widen windows for perimeter stretch plays and deep shots to Moore and Kam Perry. Beyond X’s and O’s, Scudero brings pro‑level habits and leadership that shorten the learning curve for a young room.

What they’re saying: “Danny is a game changer and a playmaker. He’s built like a slot but can play any of the receiver positions. He runs every route with intention and understands leverage and spacing. His work ethic is tireless and that of a walk-on trying to make the team daily. He makes everyone around him better.” — Deion Sanders, head coach

… Read full story here …

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March 17th

… CU in a few minutes … 

New Mexico State safety transfer Naeten Mitchell: “It all bought in and I’m glad I’m here”

From the Daily Camera … Coming to a new team and learning a new defense, Naeten Mitchell hasn’t tried to cut any corners.

In fact, the Colorado safety is doing all he can to get extra work into his days.

“Naeten’s doing well. He’s constantly in my office every day,” CU safeties coach Vonn Bell said.

A transfer from New Mexico State, Mitchell is one of several newcomers to the Buffaloes and he’s aiming to be a leader on the back end of the defense.

“Man, it’s been great,” he said of his start at CU. “It’s just learning the new scheme and learning new teammates to play with. It’s been awesome. Everybody’s buying in and I feel like the culture is really built up with (defensive coordinator Chris) Marve coming in. So, I mean, it’s been great so far.”

Mitchell spent three seasons at New Mexico State and had his breakout campaign in 2025. Mitchell earned second-team All-Conference USA honors last year, leading the Aggies with 93 tackles, while adding three interceptions, six pass breakups and four forced fumbles.

This spring, Mitchell has made some plays in practice, flashing his ability.

“I put a lot of work into being able to make those plays,” he said. “So when I can go out there and produce for my team and make those plays, it’s a blessing. Once I get the ball in my hands, try to do what I can do with it. I’ve made a couple of plays so far, so I’ve got to keep it going. But the plays that I’ve made, it’s been great; the coaches have put me in a good position, my teammates have been right there next to me.”

… A desire to play in the NFL is part of why Mitchell landed at CU this past winter. He had success at New Mexico State, but is surrounded by better talent in Boulder, as well as a coaching staff with NFL experience, led by head coach Deion Sanders, a Hall of Fame cornerback.

“I feel like a big part for me when I got into the transfer portal was finding a staff that can get me as close to the league as possible,” Mitchell said. “With this staff, it’s second to none. Most of the guys in here have been to the league or have done what we all want to do. So, that was a big part for me, especially Deion, being able to come in here and talk to him and how he spoke to my family; just everything how he told me I was going to fit into the scheme and things of that nature.

“It all bought in and I’m glad I’m here.”

… Read full story here …

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March 15th

… CU in a few minutes … 

Texas transfer linebacker Liona Lefau: “They brought in a lot of new players, and I knew a lot of people were hungry, so I came here”

From the Daily Camera … In his three years at the University of Texas, Liona Lefau experienced a great deal of success, personally and as a team.

When the NCAA transfer portal opened this winter, however, he felt it was time for a change, and he wound up joining the Colorado Buffaloes.

Now, the 6-foot-1, 230-pounder is aiming to be a leader and impact player in the middle of CU’s defense.

“Some of the things I was looking for was a hungry team,” Lefau said. “They brought in a lot of new players, and I knew a lot of people were hungry, so I came here — everyone’s hungry. I was ready to work, too.”

Lefau also connected with head coach Deion Sanders, defensive coordinator Robert Livingston and newly hired linebackers coach Chris Marve. Livingston has since moved on to a job with the Denver Broncos, with Marve taking over as coordinator.

“Just having my position coach be the DC now, it’s fun to go out there and play for him,” Lefau said.

Lefau, who has one year of eligibility remaining, was a two-year starter at Texas, helping the Longhorns go 35-8 overall in his three seasons in Austin. He helped Texas reach the College Football Playoff in 2024 and nearly a return trip to the CFP this past season.

Overall, Lefau played in 42 games at Texas, including 20 in a row as a starter before putting his name in the transfer portal and skipping the Citrus Bowl against Michigan on Dec. 31. Overall, he made 22 career starts for the Longhorns.

Last season, Lefau posted 69 tackles (tied for third on the team), three tackles for loss, one sack, three pass breakups and a fumble recovery he returned 52 yards for a touchdown.

… Read full story here …

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March 14th 

… CU in a few minutes … 

Alabama transfer running back Richard Young excited to be at CU: “Definitely a restart”

From the Daily Camera … Following three seasons at Alabama, Richard Young wanted a change of scenery.

The 5-foot-11, 210-pound running back found what he was looking for in Boulder.

“Definitely a restart,” Young said of transferring to Colorado to play for the Buffaloes and head coach Deion Sanders. “Coach Prime gave me a chance to show my ability, show what I can do and I’m always thankful for every opportunity I get, no matter what. I definitely feel like being here, I just gotta get better.”

Young is part of a rebuilt running back room for the Buffs, including Damian Henderson II and Jaquail Smith, who both came to CU from Sacramento State. Last year’s leading rusher, Micah Welch, is back, along with senior DeKalon Taylor.

All of them figure to get opportunities to run the ball.

“Well, we know it’s enough for everybody to eat,” running backs coach Johnnie Mack said. “That’s what we preach; hey, it’s enough out here for everybody. You just got to do your job. How do you play without the ball? We preach that. So, for us, it’s about playing selfless.”

… Continue reading story here …

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March 13th 

… CU in a few minutes … 

CU’s 31-year old safeties coach Vonn Bell: “Embrace the opportunity and just being here wholeheartedly and fully committed”

From the Daily Camera … The 31-year-old Vonn Bell is only about 14 months removed from his last game, on Jan. 4, 2025, with the Cincinnati Bengals. A second-round draft choice in 2016 coming out of Ohio State, Bell played for the New Orleans Saints, Bengals and Carolina Panthers, racking up 760 tackles and eight interceptions.

Bell still looks like he could play and shows up daily to the CU facility at 4 a.m. to work out with Buffs strength and conditioning coach Andreu Swasey. He’s not looking for another playing opportunity, however.

“I’m done. Yeah, for sure,” he said after CU’s fifth practice of spring on Wednesday. “I’m in a new transition in life. I always said towards the end of my career I always wanted to coach.”

Originally, Bell was going to be part of the CU staff this year as an analyst, working under defensive coordinator Robert Livingston, who was one of his coaches in Cincinnati.

Then, on Feb. 25, just five days before the start of spring ball, Livingston took a job with the Denver Broncos. Linebackers coach Chris Marve was elevated to defensive coordinator, while Bell was asked to coach the safeties.

“It’s been a blessing for sure. What a journey,” he said. “I breathe, live, and eat football, so I’m happy to be here. It’s truly an opportunity and really blessed in how they think of me. I just embrace the grind. Embrace the opportunity and just being here wholeheartedly and fully committed.”

So far, so good, as Bell has been embraced by the players.

“He’s a great mentor, a great leader of men,” CU safety Naeten Mitchell said. “Him coming in was a big thing for me. He played in the league, he’s done what I want to do; what I want to get to. So, not only coaching me football, but coaching me outside of football, coaching me to get ready for the league.”

Bell’s time in the league is done, he said, but he’s eager to help Mitchell and the other Buffs achieve their dreams.

“When I get in these meeting rooms, I hit the field, that fire is still going,” he said. “That’s why I love it so much. That’s why I’m so passionate. And that’s why I’m so blessed to be able to have an opportunity to go out there and run with the guys every day.”

… Read full story here …

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March 11th

… CU in a few minutes … 

CU safeties coach Vonn Bell: “The sky is the limit with this group” 

From BuffsTV.com …

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March 10th

… CU in a few minutes … 

Coach Prime doesn’t like players’ intensity; makes players start practice over 

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*Running backs coach Johnnie Mack: “I told my guys, ‘If you’re not excited for this, I don’t know what else to tell you, man. This Go-Go offense is built for running backs”*

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March 8th 

… CU in a few minutes … 

WR Danny Scudero okay with fewer receptions this fall: “Everybody in that room is a dawg” 

From the Daily Camera … In choosing to transfer to Colorado this past winter, Danny Scudero knew he might have to take on a slightly lesser role.

After all, the 5-foot-9, 175-pound receiver from San Jose State led the country last season in targets (156) and receiving yards (1,297), numbers that will be tough to duplicate at CU.

Scudero still figures to have a prominent role in the CU offense, but he is eager to spread the wealth among his talented teammates in the receiving corps.

“The guys in the room make it easy (to shift perspective),” Scudero said after the third practice of spring on Friday. “Guys like (Kam Perry), that I want to see them eat; and they want to see me eat. I want to see Kam run a deep ball; when DeAndre (Moore) is back, I want to see him run a deep ball. … I want to see Ernest (Campbell) use his 4.3 speed to pass people. I want to see everybody do what they came here to do, and I know that it’s reciprocated where they want to see what I can do, too.”

Perry (Miami-Ohio), Moore (Texas) and Campbell (Sacramento State) were all highly productive at their previous schools last year, too, while Joseph Williams was the second-leading receiver at CU in 2025.

Scudero and those other four had a combined 243 catches for 4,049 yards and 32 touchdowns during the 2025 season. CU also brings back talented returners in Hykeem Williams, Quanell Farrakhan Jr., and Quentin Gibson, while adding two incoming freshmen in Jacob Swain and Christian Ward.

“I would say, one, there’s a lot of talent in this room, from the top to the bottom,” Scudero said. “I mean, everybody that is in this room is a dawg. … When you have the mindset of you’re striving to get better every practice and really just holding each other accountable, that really makes for a dangerous room because you have to put your best foot forward, otherwise the guys are going to get on you. And we really just hold each other to a high standard in this room.”

… Continue reading story here …

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March 7th

… CU in a few minutes … 

Transfer wide receivers Kam Perry and Danny Scudero discuss their move to CU

From YouTube, courtesy of BuffStampede.com …

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March 6th

… CU in a few minutes … 

Coach Prime first press conference: “I like everybody that’s in here”

From Coach Prime’s first press conference of the spring …

On Staff Improvements … 

“I know there’s been a lot of talk about our staff. I’ve told y’all every year that the Bible says, ‘Your rod and your staff, they comfort me,'” Sanders said. “I feel as though we have the best staff that has been assembled in my tenure by far. There’s a whole lot of gentlemen that coached with me, that’s not a knock on them because I love them. I still have relationships with all of them, and I’m thankful. But I’m thankful for progression. I’m thankful for elevation.”

On Offensive Conference Coordinator Brennan Marion …

“Everybody I interviewed (for offensive coordinator), they averaged 30 points per game,” Sanders said. “Thirty points per game is our threshold. When we score 30 points per game, we win… But I needed that toughness, that mentality. I needed somebody that was gonna apply pressure and understand how we get down around here and go at it in that same type of way. Not only did we find him, but he’s more than expected.”

On the 50 new additions to the roster … 

“They look different, they’re built different, their attitude is different,” Sanders said. “We sat down in front of the computer and the television and watched every last one of them. Ain’t nothing got in here that I didn’t see with members of my staff. I like everybody that’s in here. Is everybody a superstar? No. But you put a dog beside a guy that’s not fully grown yet, he can hunt as well.”

On which players have stood out early on during spring ball …

“All of them. They look different, they are built different, their attitude is different. I sat down in front of a computer or television and watched every single one of them. None of them got in here that I didn’t see with members of my staff.

“So I like everybody that is in here. Is everybody a superstar? No, no. But you put a dawg beside a guy that is not fully grown yet, he can hunt as well. He might not kill like that dawg but he can hunt. And I am proud of that.”

On QB Julian “JuJu” Lewis and how his leadership has progressed…

“There was an old song as a kid that we would sing, ‘He’ll be coming ’round the mountain when he comes. He’ll be coming around the mountains…’ That is who he is. And we are looking and we are waiting for him to come around the mountain when he comes. I feel about the time we snap that first snap at Georgia Tech, he’ll be coming ’round the mountain, he’ll be straight. And we have a couple other quarterbacks on this roster that can play this game and they are applying pressure.”

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March 5th 

… CU in a few minutes … 

CU Linebacker room: If you squint real hard, there is experience (albeit at other schools)

From CUBuffs.com …

Colorado’s linebacker room enters the season with a mix of proven production and developmental depth.

The unit features returners with starting experience, transfers who have produced at multiple levels and a group of younger players working to establish roles. The blend of experience and competition gives the Buffs flexibility to both inside and outside linebackers.

Position Group: Linebackers

Returners: Gage Goldberg, Bo Simmons-Lapenna
Newcomers: Rodney Colton, Carson Crawford, Colby Johnson, Gideon ESPN Lapron, Liona Lefau, Tyler Martinez

Position Group Preview

Gideon ESPN Lampron, Liona Lefau and Tyler Martinez bring starting experience and consistent tackle production at the collegiate level, giving the defense stability at the second level. Their experience in multiple schemes and high-level competition provides a foundation for the room.

Behind them, returning contributors and special teams regulars continue to compete for expanded roles, while a group of freshmen adds size, speed and high school production to the depth chart.

The focus entering camp will be communication and role definition. With veteran leadership and competition throughout the room, the development of cohesion will determine how consistently the linebackers anchor Colorado’s defense this season.

… Continue reading story here …

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New defensive coordinator Chris Marve meets the press for the first time 

From YouTube, courtesy of BuffStampede.com …

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March 4th 

… CU in a few minutes … 

*Video: Julian Lewis meets the press*

From Brian Howell at the Daily Camera (Note: CU limits videos to three minutes) …

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Brennan Marion on Julian Lewis: “He has a million dollar arm”

From On3Sports …

Q: What have you liked that you’ve seen from Julian Lewis, and where does that quarterback room stand?

A: “He truly does have a million-dollar arm. It’s just teaching him all the little things. Unfortunately, he didn’t have a great example to learn from the standpoint of what it looks like from a habit standpoint, showing up every day with a smile on your face, a quarterback being the CEO of the program. He’s just learning those little things and details. But as far as ability, he has all the ability in the world. That’s why he came out of high school the way that he did.

“He’s still young. People forget that he skipped his senior year. He’s a very young player. He’s maturing every day; he’s getting better every day. I tell him, as long as it’s a small step forward every day, he’s doing what he needs to do to get better. But as far as his arm talent, he is in the class of Quinn Ewers and those types of guys when you talk about being able to throw the ball at an elite level.”

Q: When you got here, you were able to look at his game tape from his freshman season. What were your takeaways?

A: “The thing I love most about his game film was that Colorado last year didn’t have much run game. They knew that he was going to drop back and throw the ball, but he made smart decisions with the ball. He didn’t risk or turn over the ball. Guys with a lot of arm talent usually risk the ball a lot. When I had Jayden Maiava, when I had him, I was always constantly telling him not to risk the ball because he had such a talented arm.

“You saw Ju making smart decisions, tucking it down and running when he needed to, taking the sack sometimes when it wasn’t there — giving the guys a chance to win when he was out there. That’s what I like from him. He comes from a winning background. He’s used to winning, and he cares about taking care of the football, even though he does have a talented arm and he can force the ball in there and try to force throws, he didn’t do that.”

Q: You’re bringing in your offense. What has that been like, getting everyone up to speed and implementing it? How different is it from what they have run?

A: “To me, this is the best room I’ve been in as far as coaches that really care about the product and want to make sure they do every detail right to make the offense work. And I’d say that’s where it starts, right? Like the coaches got to make the players believe in what we’re running. When you talk about, you know, playing for Gus Malzahn back in the day, a new offense was brought to college football. If you don’t have a coaching staff that’s on board with you, they can really hurt it from working.”

… Continue reading story here …

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March 3rd 

… CU in a few minutes … 

CU offensive line: Experience; depth; size – Continuity and execution the watchwords for spring

From CUBuffs.com …

Colorado returns five offensive linemen who spent time in the starting rotation last season, providing a foundation of experience entering the year.

Alongside them are 11 newcomers, giving the Buffaloes a reshaped front heading into spring practice. The blend of returning game reps and new additions sets the stage for one of the most competitive rooms on the roster.

 The faces may be new. The responsibility remains the same.

 Protect the quarterback. Control the line of scrimmage. Set the tone up front.

 Offensive Line

 Returners: Yahya Attia, Chauncey Gooden, Phillip Houston, Larry Johnson, Andre Royer, Hudson Steber

Newcomers: Leon Bell, Ben Gula, Bo Hughley, Demetrius Hunter, Sean Kinney, Jayvon McFadden, Xaiver Payne, Jayven Richardson, Jose Soto, Taj White

Position Group Preview

Few position groups will define Colorado’s ceiling more than the offensive line.

The Buffs enter the season with a unit that blends returning experience, Power Four transfers, junior college standouts and high ceiling freshmen. Five returners with starting experience anchor the group, while 11 newcomers reshape the room with added size, versatility and competition across every position.

Experience at tackle stands out immediately.

Veterans Taj White, Andre Royer Jr., Jayven Richardson and Leon Bell bring meaningful Power Four experience. White earned three seasons of Academic All-Big Ten recognition with multiyear starting experience. Royer and Richardson both have conference starts at tackle, while Bell adds length at 6’8″ and experiences across multiple programs.

Phillip Houston and Larry Johnson III provide additional starting experience and depth. Johnson allowed just one sack across eight starts last season.

Inside, the Buffs feature physical, battle tested guards and centers.

Jose Soto arrives after starting 11 games at right guard and helping power, one of the top rushing attacks in the Big Sky. Yahya Attia proved his versatility last season, playing four positions along the offensive front while allowing zero sacks and earning PFF Big 12 Left Guard of the Week honors.

Sean Kinney adds leverage and toughness from his wrestling background after earning Freshman All-America honors and All Patriot League recognition.

The youth movement brings size and long-term upside.

Chauncey Gooden, a four-star interior lineman, adds immediate size at 380 pounds and earned national preseason freshman recognition. Xavier Payne and Ben Gula arrived as three-star prospects with strong high school production and multi-sport backgrounds. Hudson Steber provides in-state developmental depth as he continues to build physically within the program.

Across the board, this group is bigger.

Multiple linemen weigh 320 pounds or more. Several stand 6’6″ or taller. Length on the edge and interior mass inside give Colorado a front that looks physically different from a year ago.

The storyline entering camp is cohesion. 

With new faces, cross-training options and experienced transfers competing alongside young talent, the emphasis will be on communication, chemistry and consistency.

The size is there. The experience is there. The depth is there.

Now it becomes about continuity and execution.

… Continue reading story here …

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First Look: CU’s new defensive roster

From the Daily Camera …

Defensive line: Completely rebuilt in the offseason, CU brought in six transfers, led by Santana Hopper, who was first-team All-AAC at Tulane in 2025 and first-team All-Sun Belt at Appalachian State in 2024. Dylan Manuel had a good season at App State last year with 37 tackles and seven tackles for loss. Tyler Moore (Coastal Carolina), Sedrick Smith (Maryland) and Samu Taumanupepe (Baylor) are all hoping for bigger roles than they had at their previous stops. Ezra Christensen was first-team All-Conference USA at New Mexico State, but he’s still waiting on a waiver to be eligible. Freshman Josiah Manu (Thompson Valley High School) is also competing.

Edge: Quency Wiggins returns after posting nine tackles and six hurries last year, although he could move to the interior. Kylan Salter is also back after playing a reserve role at inside linebacker last year. This group was overhauled through the portal, as Toby Anene (North Dakota State), Balansama Kamara (Albany), Vili Taufatofua (San Jose State), Immanuel Ezeogu (James Madison), Lamont Lester Jr. (Monmouth) and Yamil Talib (Charlotte) were added as transfers. Kamara and Lester were both first-team All-CAA, while Anene and Taufatofua also earned all-conference recognition. JUCO transfer Domata Peko Jr. will also compete.

Inside linebacker: Liona Lefau could be the leader of this group after starting 20 consecutive games at Texas, posting 69 tackles last season. Gideon Lampron (Bowling Green) was first-team All-MAC and one of the national leaders in tackles (119) and tackles for loss (17.5), while Tyler Martinez (New Mexico State) was second-team All-CUSA in 2024 before missing most of last year with injury. Behind that trio is a trio of freshman: Rodney Colton Jr., Carson Crawford and Colby Johnson, as well as veteran walk-ons Bo LaPenna and Gage Goldberg.

Cornerbacks: RJ Johnson and Makari Vickers are back. They combined for five starts last year but both missed much of the year with injuries. CU added veteran transfers Justin Eaglin (James Madison), Emory Floyd (App State) and Paul Omodia (Lamar), all of which earned all-conference recognition at their previous schools. Jason Stokes (Utah) and Cree Thomas (Notre Dame) join the mix after redshirting at their previous stops, while freshmen Alexander Ward and Maurice Williams aim to compete for time.

Nickel: Tennessee transfer Boo Carter is a former four-star recruit who might be the favorite to start at nickel. Redshirt freshman transfer Donavan Stephens and true freshman Preston Ashley will also battle for the spot.

Safety: Senior Ben Finneseth started six games last year, the most of anyone back on defense, but he’s injured and it’s unclear if he’ll participate in spring. The Buffs signed transfers Randon Fontenette (Vanderbilt) and Naeten Mitchell (New Mexico State), who were both captains and full-time starters last year at previous stops. Jaydan Hardy (Oklahoma) and Jah Jah Boyd (Indiana) both come from big-time programs and are looking to compete for starting roles, along with freshman Braylon Edwards.

… Read full story here …

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March 2nd 

… CU in a few minutes … 

*Video: First Spring Practice*

From YouTube, courtesy of Darius Sanders …

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Buffs open spring practices with heavy hearts: “That’s what Dom would have wanted us to do”

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March 1st

… CU in a few minutes … 

CU junior walk-on quarterback Dominique Ponder dies in a car accident

… The Colorado quarterback passed away in a single-car accident … As a sophomore last season at CU, Ponder played in two games, making his collegiate debut against Arizona, playing the final three snaps. Ponder came to CU as a transfer from Bethune-Cookman. Ponder did not see action as a red-shirt freshman at CU in 2024 …

“Dom was one of my favorites!” Sanders wrote on X. “He was Loved, Respected & a Born Leader. Let’s pray for all that knew him & had the opportunity to be in his presence. Lord you’re receiving a good 1.”

From the Colorado State Patrol …

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AD Fernando Lovo on fund-raising: “We need Buff Nation to step up. And they have”

From BuffStampede.com …

How did you go about navigating NIL at New Mexico and how does that vary now here at CU?

Lovo: “I thought we did a really nice job at New Mexico navigating the world of the post-House settlement. You think back prior to July 1 of last year, and everything was collective based. I know we pushed really hard there to ensure we were competitive there. I know we did here as well. We had really strong collective support. The biggest thing is making sure you had a good plan going into the post-House settlement world.

“Here vs. what we were doing at New Mexico is different but the same sort of approach was important. I am pleased to say that since I’ve been here, I think we have a really, really strong internal NIL team, led by Alec Roussos, who does a great job. He is a football supportive administrator and I think our licensing agreements are very well done and give us a good foundation to make sure that our internal revenue share system is operating at a high level. And it is. I very much believe that, and I have seen that first-hand since I have been here.

“The new element here is the above the cap dollars and making sure that we’re competitive there and that we’re continuing to push the envelope to give our coaches the resources that we need.

“Look, that is a work in progress for everyone. There was a lot of front-loading of (NIL) contracts before July 1 of this past year, and now that is no longer something schools can do. We have the CSC (College Sports Commission), we have NIL Go, we have all these things that in place to help regulate the industry so we’re making sure when we have our house in order first. We have that going at a really high level, and now the next iteration is how do we increase our above the cap revenue? And we’re working really hard on that.

“We have to look back first and acknowledge that over the last 18 months, there has been a lot going on. We asked our supporters to donate to our collectives and other things to help us stay competitive there. But now that we’re in this new world, this House-settlement world, donations to the Buff Club are critical to our success because we now have a new $20.5 million expense that increases every year on our budget.

“In order for us to sustain that, so that we can operate at the highest levels, we need Buff Nation to step up. And they have. It is amazing the support they have provided us. But for us to remain competitive and continue to pace with the increases with our expenses, gifts to the Buff Club is by far the best way to support our organization.”

… Continue reading story here …

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Spring Practices Position Group Preview: Offense

From the Daily Camera …

Quarterback: Redshirt freshman Julian Lewis enters his second spring at CU as the projected starter. He played in four games last year, with two starts, throwing for 589 yards and four touchdowns. Sophomore Isaac Wilson comes to CU after two seasons at Utah and he’s looking to compete for the job, as well. He made seven starts as a true freshman in 2024 with the Utes. True freshman Kaneal Sweetwyne will also compete.

Running back: Last year’s leading rusher, Micah Welch, is back. Now a junior, he rushed for 384 yards and four touchdowns last year. Senior DeKalon Taylor is also back and healthy. He made an impact early last season (85 rushing yards, 106 receiving yards and two touchdowns) before missing the last eight games with an injury. That duo will get pushed by a trio of newcomers this spring, including Damian Henderson II and Jaquail Smith, who played for new offensive coordinator Brennan Marion at Sacramento State last year, with both rushing for over 500 yards. Alabama transfer Richard Young will also compete for a starting role.

Wide receiver: Joseph Williams, who was second on the team in catches (37), yards (489) and touchdowns (four), is back. So is Hykeem Williams, who made four starts before a season-ending injury, and sophomores Quentin Gibson and Quanell Farrakhan Jr., who both played quite a bit as freshmen. This room was bolstered with transfers Ernest Campbell (Sacramento State), Kam Perry (Miami-Ohio) and Danny Scudero (San Jose State), who combined for 168 receptions for 3,022 yards last year. Scudero led the country in receiving yards (1,291), and Campbell is a speedster running for CU’s track team this spring. DeAndre Moore transferred in from Texas, but has a leg injury and it’s unclear how long he’ll be out. Freshman Christian Ward will also compete.

Tight end: This room has changed less than any other on the team, as five of the six on the roster were here last year. Zach Atkins is the leader after he made seven starts last year and caught 20 passes for 149 yards. Brady Kopetz earned a scholarship for this year and return, while Zayne DeSouza and Corbin Laisure look to compete after redshirting. Fisher Clements is a transfer from UNC who brings good size (6-foot-7, 265 pounds), while walk-on Charlie Williams hopes to compete for time, too.

Offensive line: It’ll be a rebuilt line once again as four full-time starters are gone. Larry Johnson started eight games, including seven at right tackle, but he’s opening the spring at guard. Yahya Attia (four starts) and Andre Roye (two) also return, with Attia at guard and Roye at tackle. Returners Phillip Houston and Chauncey Gooden will also compete at guard. Transfers Leon Bell, Jayven Richardson, Taj White and Bo Hughley will compete at tackle; they combined for 23 starts at their previous schools last year, with White starting 11 games at Rutgers and Bell eight at California. At guard, transfers Jose Soto and Jayvon McFadden join the competition. Soto was an 11-game starter at Sacramento State last year. Demetrius Hunter, a transfer, is likely the starting center after starting 24 consecutive games for Houston. However, he will be pushed by Sean Kinney, a two-year starter and All-Patriot League choice from Lafayette. CU also has freshmen Ben Gula (guard/center) and Xavier Payne (tackle) in the mix.

… Read full story here …

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Tags: Danny Scudero, Elliott Arnold, Mojo Willians
This post, about the Spring Practices game, from the 2026 Season, is filed under Article.
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