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Future looks bright

Posted August 26, 2007

Not to jump ahead, especially considering CU’s season doesn’t officially start until Saturday’s season opener with the wooly folks from Fort Fun.



But take a look at the most-recent Buff depth chart and one thing jumps out: either a freshman or redshirt freshman is listed as a starter or No. 2 at every position on the offensive line.



In theory, that means CU’s offensive line is set for the next several seasons. In reality, it means CU’s offensive line is going to be a beast in a big hurry.



The names aren’t just freshmen taking up space. Along with redshirt frosh Wes Palazzi, currently the starting left guard, it also includes monsters-in-waiting Ryan Miller, Sione Tau and Kai Maiava — each of whom could see significant playing time this year.



It’s a similar story on the defensive line, where three freshmen are listed No. 2 on the depth chart. Throw in youngsters at wide receiver, running back and quarterback, and it’s hard not to start wondering what 2008 and 2009 will bring.



(Speaking of quarterback: If you missed true frosh Matt Ballenger in the preseason camp scrimmages, you missed a show. The kid can sling it, and he already has an NFL-prototype build. Guaranteed, the quarterback battles in spring and fall camp for the next few years will be very interesting.)



But the best news right now is up front. Those are the kind of hosses that will make stud prep running backs take a long, hard look at Colorado.



And, they’re also the kind of players that could prove Dan Hawkins knows a thing or two about recruiting.