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Sumler likely to start at TB for Buffs
CU coaches still have plenty of decisions to make before opener
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The final week of Colorado football training camp will be big for dozens of players involved in a handful of position battles throughout the depth chart.
Six offensive linemen continue to vie for two spots. At least six linebackers are fighting to join Jeff Smart in the starting lineup. Defensive ends Marquez Herrod and Jason Brace have emerged as the top two options at right defensive end. The top three wide receivers are Josh Smith, Scotty McKnight and Patrick Williams, but who plays behind them still must be decided, and it's looking like freshman tight end Ryan Deehan will be difficult to keep off the field.
One position is a little more settled but not stamped in stone today following the second scrimmage of camp Sunday afternoon. After almost two full weeks of practices coaches havedetermined sophomore Demetrius Sumler is their likely starter at tailback when the season opens Aug. 31 in Denver against Colorado State.
It's not much of a surprise considering Sumler came into camp atop the depth chart as the man with the most experience at the position.
Running backs coach Darian Hagan said Sumler knows the playbook best and is a superior blocker in the passing game. But Hagan said all three true freshmen running backs will play this season and Darrell Scott is the best option at this point in short yardage and goal-line situations.
"I feel good about us," Hagan said of his running backs. "I think we're coming along as a group, but we're not there yet where all the backs are running with confidence and know what they're doing out there."
CU officials estimated 1,400 fans stood behind the ropes Sunday on the last day practices were open to the public. The rest of training camp will be conducted behind closed doors with only media and invited guests allowed to see practices. Decisions remain for every position coach on the staff and each talked about his group following the scrimmage:
Offensive line coach
Jeff Grimes
"I think we're in very different stages depending on who you're talking about. A guy like Girthy (Daniel Sanders) has a ton of experience. Devin Head has a ton of experience. So those guys are a long way ahead of other guys. Ryan Miller has some experience but is not as far along as others. Nate Solder has all the ability in the world but is still not experienced playing the o-line. He still has some questions that freshmen have sometimes.
"The guard position is still totally up in the air. We've got six guys competing for two spots, and we might go into the first game or two without those positions being completely settled. If nobody really steps up and establishes themselves has the clear leader, then we'll do that."
Defensive backs coach
Greg Brown
"We're making progress, but we didn't have a lot of big plays in the scrimmage today. Jalil Brown caught the ball well and made a couple interceptions, but we did have some missed coverages, missed assignments, missed tackles. We're far from being where we need to be two weeks from now.
"We really feel like we're going to have to go into the first game of two, of course we're going to have to name a couple starters, but at that point it's going to be up to guys to show they belong and deserve to be out there. Really when it comes down to it, you've got five guys going hot and heavy for the two corner jobs, but you're going to play three with the need for nickel defenses on the field. And in the second game you will really need six on the field because they will bring four receivers.
"... At least we're blessed that we do have two veteran safeties back who make the proper calls and get everyone lined up."
Tight ends coach
Kent Riddle
"In terms of the older guys, we've got a pretty good idea who will play. It's just kind of piecing them into the game plan and figuring out where everybody fits. The younger guys, we're just trying to bring them along and force feed them as much as possible and see what they're ready to do. Ryan Deehan did a nice job today.
"Ryan Wallace made a nice play, but with those guys it's tougher tell. We could probably get by with the older guys, and by get by, I mean do well with them. So if the younger guys aren't going to be impact-type guys, there is no point in playing them. If they can make an impact, we'll let them roll."
Wide receivers coach
Eric Kiesau
"I think the group overall is progressing very well. I think we're very close to where I want them to be chemistry-wise, guys getting along, working hard, trusting each other. I think the production on the field will show from that. This is third year and coming into it this is the closest we've been as a tight-knit group.
"I have a top three and we're working on the four, five, six and seven. Josh, Scotty and Pat we kind of made that move last week and made sure they were all on the field at the same time. At one point we have Josh behind Pat, but for the betterment of the team, we moved Pat over to get those three guys on the field cause we're not doing all those personnel groupings. We have to make sure we have the right guys on the field for every play."
Linebackers coach
Brian Cabral
"I think I'm a work in progress. I think (Jeff) Smart is on top of his game and (Michael) Sipili is coming along. After that, there is a lot of work to be done. I've got a lot of work to do still and there is a lot to sort out still.
"I've got a three-deep right now and I've just got to see how that all falls out."
Defensive line coach
Romeo Bandison
"With the older guys, the seniors, it's probably as I expected. (Maurice Lucas) is probably one of the most improved I think. George (Hypolite) and Brandon (Nicolas) are steady, smart and know their stuff. There are some things we can improve on, but with those guys I'm pleased.
"Jason Brace has made some progress I've thought. Marquez Herrod is solid also. I trust those guys and I feel good about them. I like all the young guys."
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Posted by mgmtgrad on August 18, 2008 at 12:35 a.m. (Suggest removal)
It look as if CU has just enough upper classmen to help and lead while still in the reloading stage with a lot of youth with some work to do.
It's going to be very excited if a few of the younger guys accelarate their learning and playing. While the older guys goes out in style with great performing this year also.
In any case I'm looking forward to an exciting season that will surprise those that haven't really given CU any credit.
But one thing for sure, when the reloading is complete, the next few years will be fun; including this year.
Marcus J
Posted by BuffMan6236 on August 18, 2008 at 1:42 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I watched the practice. You can see speed returning to Boulder, its very exciting.
Posted by walto_clown on August 18, 2008 at 2:03 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Great article--I enjoyed the format and felt the coaches were as honest as the forum would permit. Congratulations to Mr. Sumler; it should be interesting to see if anyone emerges later in the season.
Does anyone know when Brian Lockridge returns (roughly)? What an awesome stable of runningbacks--albeit a young stable--CU is suddenly blessed with.
Posted by zonabuff on August 18, 2008 at 5:53 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I had hoped Mohler would stand out, but I guess he just hasn't had enough time yet. 2 weeks!
Posted by earmuffs on August 18, 2008 at 6:03 a.m. (Suggest removal)
My concern is still the DBs. "...missed coverages, missed assignments, missed tackles..." From guys with some experience? Not a good sign.
If those guys don't step up, it's going to be a long long season, particularly in light of the competition we will face.
Posted by kimolukela on August 18, 2008 at 7:08 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Great..12 more days of your pointless dribble.
Posted by archalon on August 18, 2008 at 7:28 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Sumler's starting gig will last all of two games. All along , Scott wasnt going to start the season - if for no other reason than pass protection. But he'll play the second half of the EWU game and start against WVU.
Not alot of confidence shown by Cabral - hopefully he's just being humble
Posted by extrapoint on August 18, 2008 at 7:41 a.m. (Suggest removal)
a whole article full of coach speak.
what actually happened during the scrimmage? Can anyone take up the DC and Scout's slack and give me sone stats? the good plays and bad plays?
Posted by extrapoint on August 18, 2008 at 7:50 a.m. (Suggest removal)
does anyone else hear a little dog barking in here?
Posted by kimolukela on August 18, 2008 at 7:59 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Yea, no one wants to read your worthless comments. I find it very odd that Tall hasn't been posting, and now we have to deal with more commentary by another annoying witless moron. Maybe you should really start taking your medication again?
Luckily, we have a couple of games to work out the kinks on defense. Were we using any different defensive packages during the scrimmage?
Posted by salsajohn on August 18, 2008 at 8:08 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I can't be the only Buff fan that though Sumler was not very good last season and got progressively worse as last season wore on. I remember several plays where he lost one-on-one battles and could not pick up short yardage in key situations. I hope this doesn’t last long.
IMO, CU should play the freshmen against the weaker teams like CSU and Eastern Washington so as to get them ready for the real season that starts in week 3.
Posted by buff4life on August 18, 2008 at 8:15 a.m. (Suggest removal)
lil brother trying to sound tuff.....counting the days is getting a "tired' lil bro, cant you do better than that?? i cant wait to hear your "smack" when you play new mexico and unlv....good luck in the Mountain Worst Conference after getting "beat down" again, by big brother. now go clean my room and make me a sandwich
Posted by archalon on August 18, 2008 at 8:24 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I agree with Salsajohn. Sumler, for his size and ability, failed in short yardage many times last year. That, and he got tired as the saeson wore on and lacked foot speed. By the end of the year, he should having been winning one-on-one's in the hole and wasnt.
As much as Charles was getting the ball, Sumler should have been fresh, but it was clear Sumler was a 4th option behind Charles, Ellis and Lockridge late in the year. Getting stuffed on 4th down against ISU was perhaps the worst play call\player performance of the year.
Posted by archalon on August 18, 2008 at 8:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Anyone notice Scott returning kicks at the second scrimmage ? 2 returns for a 43.5 avg.
Hope they dont get him hurt back there.
Posted by reallifeshocker on August 18, 2008 at 8:49 a.m. (Suggest removal)
totally coach-speak. but with this schedule, one that could be nightmarish if the defense doesn't play big every single play. they must be focused, together, and ready; even for the lambs.
Posted by extrapoint on August 18, 2008 at 8:58 a.m. (Suggest removal)
finally found some stats on rivals I could get w/o a subsrip.
Interesting to note Hansen was 3 for 4 with 25 yards per and the gravy.......6 rushes for 72 yards or 12 per.
Posted by BuffsFan77 on August 18, 2008 at 9:37 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I'd like to point out to our Lamb friend the record of 53 and 19. So who's putting who in the dirt "year after year"?
Posted by mgmtgrad on August 18, 2008 at 9:40 a.m. (Suggest removal)
The stats for the scrimage are posted on DC.
http://buffzone.com/blogs/buffzone-sp...
And your correct extrapoint, Hanson is a firecracker, but I've been saying that since LOI day when others were doubting him.
Marcus J
Posted by extrapoint on August 18, 2008 at 9:47 a.m. (Suggest removal)
With the 2 new guys coming in the future looks amazing.
Posted by nwbuff32 on August 18, 2008 at 9:50 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Correction, Colorado leads the series by a 58-19-2 count and has won four of the last six.
Colorado State's all time win loss
460-503-33 (.478)
Posted by LBCBuff on August 18, 2008 at 9:59 a.m. (Suggest removal)
2 big ones out of this article for me: putting Josh Smith on the field with Williams and McKnight instead of Smith and Williams sharing a position. That's a WR group with some big upside. And Brandison saying Mo Lucas is one of the most improved. If we can get some DE rush to go with the DT's that'll go a long way helping out the young defensive backs. I agree with the posts on Sumler - hopefully this is just loyalty to a returning player, but once the season starts they go with playmaking ability.
Posted by neb_cu_buff on August 18, 2008 at 10:02 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I really liked how Hansen looks, from scrimmage one to scrimmage two. He looked like he was taking control of things real well while he was out there and was just executing very well... He will be a good QB for our future teams.. Can't wait.
Cody Hawkins had a few bad throws, was batted down only twice within the two scrimmages, but this last scrimmage he had a few mediocre drives, while Ballenger led his group to a couple TD's right away. They were very productive drives, Hawkins finally got into the end zone though. He was just a lil Shaky at times.
Sumler looks better than he did last year. I mean, overall he was JUST a frosh last year, so hopefully in his sophomore campaign he WILL be the deserving starter. We will find out the first few plays of the CSU game. He is not really explosive, but can bull his way forward. The FROSH RB's are going to be the ones that flash the speed and explosiveness when they do get on the field. One of them may end up showing up Sumler and taking the starting job. (Moyd, Scott, Stewart). Kevin Moyd BTW was working with the second offense most of the scrimmage and he really stood out among the RB's for the day.
The O-line blocked well and most QB's had a lot of time, but also on the other hand, the D-Line and LB's were getting better pressure on the QB's. Some of the QB's scrambled real well though in reaction to the pressure..
Other players to note that stood out: Jalil Brown on defense, like the story said, couple of interceptions and he was just all over the field, played his position well. The DB's showed good signs of improvement, but there were just a few plays they missed assignments and coverage.
Loved seeing all the Buff fans out there and overall the scrimmage went well yet again. From the first scrimmage to the second, you could tell there were improvements all over the field, now back to the drawing board before kicking CSU's lil lamb butts! Go Buffs!
Posted by neb_cu_buff on August 18, 2008 at 10:06 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I left out Ray Polk. I don't remember seeing him very much during the second scrimmage, but when I have noticed him out there, whether the first or second scrimmage, he shows some real potential as well. He is speedy and could be thrown into that mix of Frosh, possibly replacing Stewart in that group of Frosh...... Go BUFFS!
Posted by extrapoint on August 18, 2008 at 10:24 a.m. (Suggest removal)
thanks a bunch neb_cu_buff
Posted by Saheeb on August 18, 2008 at 10:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Compare this year to Hawk's first and second year in terms of the potential playmakers you can name. First two years Bernard Jackson was probably it. Now you can say Scott, J. Smith, Polk, Stewart, Celestine, Lockridge and perhaps Simas if he gets his grades together. That's a far longer list than years 1-2, I believe. Bodes well as these guys get more experience and a young O-line comes together.
Posted by neb_cu_buff on August 18, 2008 at 10:40 a.m. (Suggest removal)
You are right Saheeb, you can name all those players as potential play makers and we will see a bunch more names stand out as the season comes around I think. There is a lot of potential within each individual on this team and as a whole, the team has a great amount of potential and how well this team gels and how hard they want to learn and use their potential will determine an possible eight win season or not. I said POSSIBLE. BTW...You are welcome extrapoint. GO BUFFS!
Posted by nwbuff32 on August 18, 2008 at 10:42 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Saheeb- Don't count on Simas. Its pretty much a done deal that he will not be playing.
Otherwise, I agree about play makers. Here are my top 5:
1. JFly
2. Stewart
3. Scott
4. Celestine
5. Jimmy Smith (had to put a least one from the D)
Jimmy Smith could be a damn good CB this year, but he has to get over his injuries in order to be effective. He has all the physical tools to make our secondary less suspect. He was initially slated to start against CSU, but now the staff is going with plan B imo.
Posted by archalon on August 18, 2008 at 11:44 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Ill bet that Simas will never play for CU. With Jfly, Mcknight and Celestine returning next year, and recruits in Darden, and hopefully 2 of the three of Blake,Carroll and Evans, they'll be no room for an underacheiver who cant make the grade.
And Sumler was RS freshman last year I beleive, not just a frosh. He could have showed more and didnt. CU wont wait on him, Scott will start by game 3 and finish the year as an honorable mention or third team all Big 12.
Posted by Saheeb on August 18, 2008 at 11:51 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Archalon: I agree. I think Sumler is a adequate back but won't ever be a real game breaker type threat. I think he gets the ball early and does okay, but not enough to fend off Scott and/or Polk. I think by game three Scott takes over. Also, nwbuff32, I think you're right that Jimmy Smith may be the defensive playmaker and Jalil Brown and possibly Anthony Wright eventually too. We need some guys who can create turnovers for sure.
Posted by archalon on August 18, 2008 at 11:52 a.m. (Suggest removal)
BTW - when are we going to get another recruiting commitment ?
McGhee looks like he hasn't been offered by Nebraska according to Scout and CU is the best of his remaining options listed. Kasa was rumored once to be a late august or early sept. commitment - maybe visiting for the WVU game ?
Posted by Saheeb on August 18, 2008 at 11:53 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Anyone know if the CU-CSU game is going to be televised? Gotta figure out if I'll be able to pick it up on ESPN Gameplan or something here in NorCal if it won't run nationally/regionally.
Posted by archalon on August 18, 2008 at 11:58 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Sports Illustrated cover, week after WVU game:
Great Scott !
Colorado stampedes past West Virgina behind freshman's 3 TDs.
Posted by archalon on August 18, 2008 at 11:59 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Saheeb - moving it to Sunday was to accomodate national TV, its the only game on. Fox will have it.
Posted by extrapoint on August 18, 2008 at 12:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I imagine recruiting, whic never ends of course, has taken a back seat, temporarily, to getting the team ready for the season. After the WVU game, which we will win, if we can contain the run, the fine tuning wont take as much time away from the recruiting.
The win against WVU will kick start it big time.
Posted by buff4life on August 18, 2008 at 1:15 p.m. (Suggest removal)
love that S.I. cover archalon!!!!! go buffs!!!!!
Posted by SanJoseBuff on August 18, 2008 at 1:40 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Isn't the SI cover usually a jinx?
Posted by extrapoint on August 18, 2008 at 1:51 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I noticed Blackmon's name was absent from the receiving stats. Does anyone know if he was suited up?.....or how he has looked in practice? Which leads me to wonder if he is a redshirt candidate. Which leads me to wonder who else is?
Major and Katoa are, of course. Would Rippy redshirt? Seems like we have enough depth at LB, but maybe he will be too good to keep off the field.
Another guy who may be too good is Hansen. If Nelson doesnt recupperate fast enough will he be thrown in?
Speaking of a different QB, would it make tall happy?.....of cousre not. He wouldnt be happy until both Hawkins fail completely and are gone.
The mystery of tall's disappearance is still with me. Whoever he/she was had to have something to do with his erasure.
Posted by BuffSteve on August 18, 2008 at 1:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Correct me if I'm wrong but hasn't CU won the last 4-5 games against the lambs? Admittedly, they have won a couple the past decade but even a blind pig finds an acorn sometimes.
Posted by coereg on August 18, 2008 at 2:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Sumler is the Pawn right now. They are telling us one thing, but will in fact lead with another.
Sumler may start the game, but it won't be too long after that we begin to see the emergence of D. Scott.
I agree with a previous post that although i like Sumler a lot, he just is missing little tid-bits here and there of what you want to see out of a starting rb.
Posted by coereg on August 18, 2008 at 2:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Scott didn't get a chance to run very much yesterday- probably about 5 or 6 carries, and a punt return or two. He ran extremely fast with the returns, busting one for probably about 40 yards or so.
And then with the actual carries, he had at least two good runs that I coud tell. One was about a 9 or 10 yard burst where he had an LB and 2 DB's struggle to really bring him down.
He looks strong, and is definitely a Head On runner who can bull you over.
Posted by montanabuff on August 18, 2008 at 2:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Buff Steve
The last five games - four wins
'03 - CU 42-35
'04 - CU 27-24
'05 - CU 31-28
'06 - CSU 14-10
'07 - CU 31-28 (OT)
Four wins, but all close games. Perhaps this year we can finally get that dominating win, so that we can enjoy watching the CSU half (I'm sorry, CSU third) of the stadium quietly empty out.
GO BUFFS!
http://www.cuatthegame.com
Posted by Saheeb on August 18, 2008 at 3:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)
CU is starting to click offensively from what can be discerned from media reports and scrimmage stats. Everytyhing indicates CU is young but starting to gel and now has some playmakers. On the other hand, CSU has a new coach and a new QB, which is very similar to where CU was with Hawk two seasons ago. I like the Rams a lot and always pull for them to do well, but this should be a year where the Buffs blow them out of the water. Let's hope that's the case. You never know with rivalries.
Posted by clbuff on August 18, 2008 at 4:15 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Kasa may be opening his recruiting up a bit rather than getting ready to decide. I read and article saying he contacted Notre Dame after learning they thought he was not interested. Still has CU and Florida as his favorites, but he may go back to his initial stance of waiting to see how CU's season goes before deciding. We need this guy with Nicholas and the Rabid Goldfish done after this year.
Posted by extrapoint on August 18, 2008 at 4:29 p.m. (Suggest removal)
We need Kasa badly
The rest of the short list of DE's being recruited does not inspire
Posted by clbuff on August 18, 2008 at 4:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Regarding Kasa, I am worried. CU has had difficulty over the past years recruiting top talent on the D-line. The last two defensive ends that were 4-star athletes from CO (their names escape me) went to Texas and Miami. Hopefully Kasa will buck that trend, but I am not encouraged.
Posted by Cu_Buffs12 on August 18, 2008 at 8:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)
the only reason that the csu game worries me is that csu is so bad that the cu game is the biggest game of their season so they try so hard in it and to cu the game is just the first game of the season.
Posted by Saheeb on August 18, 2008 at 10:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Agreed Cu_Buffs12. They are always up for it as they should be. This could be the year though, where the talent gap between us and them really starts to show up. But, it always seems that no matter who is better on paper (usually us!) it's always close. Should be fun, but I sure hope we see real signs of improvement in the Buffs the first couple of games and that it continues into the season.
Posted by buff4ever on August 18, 2008 at 11:10 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I think this will be the year for clear separation and the return of lopsided wins by the Buffs. The size of our players is incredible and the speed is back again in Boulder.
Always funny when a CSU animal hubandry major and willing class participant shows up on our site. I guess he is looking for a new field for the CSU cheerleaders to graze on.
Posted by archalon on August 19, 2008 at 7:49 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Is Kory Sperry in his ninth year of eligibility ? Dont let him score 3 tds this year and we'll be fine
Personally, Id like to see the CU\CSU game go away and have it replaced with a regional matchup, CU alternating between CSU, AFA, Wyoming. Alternate home sites too, get it out of Invesco.
Corporate greed be damned
Posted by extrapoint on August 19, 2008 at 8:05 a.m. (Suggest removal)
dont think ramsrule is really a lamb(try troll). His smack is about as generic as it gets. I doubt if he knows the names of 2 CSU players
Posted by buffalo_flyer on August 19, 2008 at 9:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Personally I love playing CSU every year, Can't figure out why some of you are so afraid of the matchup.
Especially since that "Corporate Greed" is pumpin an extra $500,000 into the CU coffers
Posted by archalon on August 19, 2008 at 10:10 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Relax Flyer - see the humor in it.
We arent afraid of the matchup - its just boring. Would much rather see AFA and Wyoming rotate in or replace it all together with other teams. BYU ? Utah ? Boise State ? Pac 10 team ?
the novelty of the RMS game is worn thin, we could better. No one takes CU seriously if they win and CU suffers greatly if they lose. Where's the benefit ?
CU can make 500k against a quality opponent anyway, so the $ isnt really a factor.
Posted by DCBuff on August 19, 2008 at 10:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Great article Kyle!!! Thanks!!
Posted by Saheeb on August 19, 2008 at 11:52 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Archalon & Buffalo_flyer: I am also bored by the CSU series, but I definitely do not want to rotate in Wyoming and Air Force. Both of those teams will be up for playing us and I see little to be gained in terms of national recognition by beating them, lots at risk if we lose, and nothing to gain in terms of recruiting exposure. I would rather see us play a middling type program that we should beat (but not a total cupcake) that also gives us some good regional recruiting exposure. I'd rather play someone like Connecticut, Miami Ohio, Ohio U, Northwestern, Ole Miss, UTEP or someone like that. (yes, please take pot shots at my list). No one outside of Colorado cares if we beat CSU, AFA or Wyoming. I've always felt we have little to gain and everything to lose in such match ups. The CU-CSU game is fun, but I'd rather see us play someone out of state.
Posted by buffalo_flyer on August 19, 2008 at 12:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Do you people understand that we're talking about game 1? Do you look at the schedules and see the powerhouses we stack up every year? Will you even acknowledge that we JUST PLAYED MIAMI OHIO LAST YEAR?!?!?!
Why wouldn't you take an EXTRA $500,000 to play a team that you're going to beat 9 out of 10 times... on national TV... will no other games competing.... on the most starved weekend of the year for college football...a game thats been down to the wire and exciting as can possibly be since its moved to Invesco?
Posted by Saheeb on August 19, 2008 at 1:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Buffalo_flyer: yeah, good points. And, half a million in revenues should not be dismissed for a cash strapped AD also. I'm not saying we should add another powerhouse opponent to an already obscenely tough schedule. But, I'd like to see more than money to be gained by beating a down team like CSU. I still say there's a lot more return from the exposure from playing a weak team outside of Colorado, especially in areas where we're trying to recruit more like Texas, California, Ohio and possibly Florida. I think playing teams like Georgia and Alabama definitely helps us recruits kids like Conrad Obi, Celestine, etc. Of course, those are powerhouse programs and it's harder to find "middling" type teams we should beat in some parts of the country where we want to recruit more.
Posted by iowabuff on August 19, 2008 at 1:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I think we should start up a series with Iowa. This game would be a great draw against a good opponent (middle of the B10). I agree that the CSU series is a no win situation for us, other than the $500K.
Posted by LGDAF on August 19, 2008 at 2:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I also like the idea of playing a Big 10 (I mean Big 11) team. In the past we've played the likes of Michigan and Wisconsin. I wouldn't mind having a home and away with Purdue.
Posted by troutman5 on August 19, 2008 at 2:43 p.m. (Suggest removal)
i cant believe what im hearing! this rivalry is turning into one of the most exciting in the country. every game seems to be close. i thought taking it out of invesco was a bad idea, but losing it all together sounds ridiculous!
Posted by archalon on August 19, 2008 at 2:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Flyer:
first, has CU beaten CSU 9 out of the last 10 times ? no
Has it been national on tv every year ? no
Has it been the only game on during the most starved weekend of the year, previous to 2008 ? no
you dont think an C-USA, MAC or lower tier big ten, or pac-10 team would be better for the program ? CU could host a Pigskin Classic type game at Invesco against anyone: Iowa, BYU, Oregon State, Minnesota, etc. and make the 500k - so that isnt an argument either
I dont understand the reasoning for wanting an easy opponent - first game or any game. Play the best to be the best. The players want to play top competition and the fans want to see it and pay for it.
Posted by archalon on August 19, 2008 at 2:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)
We need inroads into the big 10 - I like Iowabuff's idea.
Cant wait for the Minnesota series - CU on the road in 2012 and the gophers at Folsom, second game of 2013.
Posted by Saheeb on August 19, 2008 at 4:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)
The Gophers might be back to playing well by 2012 with the recruiting their new coach has done against all odds. Personally, down the line the series I can't wait for is the "Hippie Bowl" in 2010 & 2011 against Cal-Berkeley!
Posted by mtnboykev35 on August 19, 2008 at 4:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Saheeb, I like the UTEP idea and even UNM as I live in NM and would love to see the Buffs more down this way. Also maybe Rice and even Arizona would be interesting games to play. I also agree the CSWho series is getting old.
Posted by Black_Rob on August 19, 2008 at 5:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I personally like the series, because my friends & family are split down the middle on this game. Makes for some good times.
Posted by keepfolsomfolsom on August 19, 2008 at 6:21 p.m. (Suggest removal)
i dislike csu, as much as the next person with any soul and taste, and therefore love playing them (strange as it may seem, most all of the real meatheads from my prep school ended up going there). so what if it may gain us nothing on the national stage(hey-if we really want national attention play any SEC team and BEAT them-they greatly make other areas of the country look pale as far as the general citizenry's interest in a team- win or lose- is concerned... it is crazy down there. take nebraska/oky fans X 100) it brings so much personal satisfaction rubbing csu fans heads in their own mediocrity each year when we thump them (even when we have, occasionally, been rather mediocre too--slick neuweasel era on).
having said the above i think a yearly game against air force academy is a great idea also, in that, facing the type of offense they run is a tremendous challenge but not too much-hopefully-(just wait for paul johnson's version of it to take hold with georgia tech in a couple of years as an inevitable example) and it might give us further ideas on how to tweak our offense along similar lines--particularly with all the speed we have begun to recruit under hawk.
colorado and (at least elements of) the triple option? could it possibly work?hmmmm...clearly, the more sleight of hand and hawklove the better. of course, it takes a better intellect of player to work the angles of this offense but then again cu has traditionally been known for its academically gifted student-athletes.enough said.
Posted by buffalo_flyer on August 19, 2008 at 7:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)
We already have the schedule that everyone wants. Replacing CSU would be a mistake, nationally they are known more than AFA as our in-state rival, thats how we get national respect for close games
We lose to CSU and we're sure not making it through the Big-12 much less to a BCS game, so no real loss playing them anyway.
This game has outgrown Folsom and never fit in Hughes. We're on national TV again, all alone on Sunday night. We're favored by 12 over the Lambs. All the Bufffans I know are drooling, not whimpering about stepping up and playing away and away series at the Swamp, Colisseum, Big House, Death Valley or heaven forbid, Autzen
Posted by PRBcitizen12 on August 19, 2008 at 9:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)
we learn little that wasnt already obvious. if we can use our linebackers to create a pass rush(near extinct in boulder), we should have plenty of athletes to play db. my fear is the OL... if it comes together, i think we win 4 of that tough week stretch
Posted by PRBcitizen12 on August 19, 2008 at 9:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)
we learn little that wasnt already obvious. if we can use our linebackers to create a pass rush(near extinct in boulder), we should have plenty of athletes to play db. my fear is the OL... if it comes together, i think we win 4 in that tough 7 week stretch
Posted by houston_buff on August 19, 2008 at 10:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)
How about some love for Hagan? Dude has been great for the Buffs and will some day have to take a big job elsewhere. Did DS sign with the Buffs or sign with DH?? Coach Mac gave us some good guys like DH, Jon Embree and Coach Bienemy. Would let my boys play football with those guys anytime. Thanks fellas for the time and the memories. Khanavis if you are out there-we need you!!
Posted by archalon on August 20, 2008 at 7:15 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I think Hagan will do good at any job he wants - lets hope he stays in boulder for quite awhile though. Scott-Polk-Stewart was a good haul and I doubt they all committ to a program without a solid feel for whether Hagan will be around awhile.
I hope those three RBs are CU studs, ala Mac's Flana-haga-nemy that changed the fortunes of the program 20+ years ago.
Posted by glx1747 on August 20, 2008 at 8:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)
IMO, I don't feel like the CSU game is a waste at all. It gives us a chance to get warmed up for the regular season at hand. Need I remind any of you that these "midlings" have the potential to beat us and spoil any hopes of a national championship game ... ahem ... Fresno State 2000.
Recruiting has nothing to do with the regional non-conference games. In Nebraska's hey dey, they played the likes of Troy State, Alcorn, ect... and it didn't hurt them in recruiting. The reason might be because they were more known on the national level. The Big 12 is a heck of alot better competition than the Big 8 used to be (where the only consistently good teams were NU, OU and us).
Had we not played Fresno in 2000, we could have possibly won another National Championship; I don't really think we could have won it because of the pounding we took from Oregon, but at least we could have had a shot at it.
I hate the SEC as much as anyone, but funny only one of you mentioned playing an SEC team as a "midling". Do you think LSU plays a tough non-conference schedule???? Heck no, they play Tulane, La Tech, ect... Do they get shoddy recuits because of their pansy schedule, NO!!
Yeah, Yeah, Yeah, "play the best and you'll be the best". While that is a truthful cliche, no one cares about who gave you the one loss during the season it's just a loss to everyone else. I say we keep CSU on the schedule for an exciting warm up game and quit worrying so much about playing the top tier teams so early, because they SURELY aren't worried about playing a decent team until it really counts.
Posted by Saheeb on August 20, 2008 at 1:21 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Think Hawk will run a trick play this season where we throw to Nate Solder? That would be sweet. I'm sure a converted TE to OT could catch everyone off guard and make the catch!
Posted by BuffSteve on August 20, 2008 at 5:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Does anybody have information on Darrell Scott's thumb injury? There was a mention of that on Rivals.
Posted by MDBuff on August 20, 2008 at 7:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Sounds like the thumb injury's not too bad and Scott said he's good and will practice tonight.
http://www.denverpost.com/colleges/ci...
Posted by earmuffs on August 20, 2008 at 7:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)
anyone have information regarding that WR recruit for USC that took a trip to CU. I think his name is Carroll. I can't access the article from rivals.
Posted by CoNFiNaLGuRu on August 20, 2008 at 8:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I was watching the August 18th scrimmage video and it looks like D Scott isn't going full speed on the drills like Polk and Stewart. Does anyone else notice that? Is there something other than his thumb that is injured? He has so much talent!
Posted by oz_in_cali on August 20, 2008 at 11:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)
What? Nobody wants a piece of Tricky Rick? If we scrap the CSU series, why not substitute in UCLA? It more-or-less fits the criteria (lets face it, UCLA is a nice name with a beatable team), a trip to the rose bowl every other year against a team we traditionally do well against (unlike dreaded sc), not to mention the so. cal recruiting exposure. Oh yeah, did I mention the opportunity to hand slicky boy an annual beatdown.
The RMS has given us some fun games, but imagine the fun it would be to mix it up with say alternating home and homes with teams like UCLA, Iowa, Maryland, Georgia Tech and UNC.
Don't get me wrong I have no beef with the RMS, I'm fine with keeping it going, but I wouldn't be dissapointed if it was replaced by my suggestion or any number of those proposed above.
GO BUFFS!!!
Posted by keepfolsomfolsom on August 21, 2008 at 7:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)
as stated before i don't even think it should be considered dropping the csu game.
however, cu should definitely stop playing teams like miami(oh), montana st{ARGH}--talk about having nothing to gain.
it is a fact that historically,on the recruiting stage,the best athletes (not necessarily student athletes)can be listed in this order:
1)deep south: louisiana, mississippi, florida, texas and alabama--bigger/stronger/faster athletes
2)california and/or texas
3)the rest of the states and territories' players on a case by case basis
and if this is indeed the case, it seems obvious that we should be playing teams like tulane,florida central, southern mississippi,south alabama (when they start playing football next? year) and perhaps smu (before june jones builds them up) where we can thrash them mightily and then recruit within easy distances. our presence perceived by the local populace as consummate victors in that area of the country is an obvious win-win for cu in the future.
hey-we should even think of playing overrated alabama again. hawkins clearly outcoached saban in the second half...can't believe cu lost that game.
Posted by keepfolsomfolsom on August 21, 2008 at 8:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)
as far as demetrius sumler is concerned he seems to be both fast AND can catch the ball. the latter,occasionally of late,colorado seems to lack.
sensibly, he definitely should be given a spot to stay on the field in some position.
however,hypothetically, as the season progresses (if certain others live up to their various levels of preseason hype) he could very well lose a great deal of playing time at half back.
does anyone know if he has ever been given a look at wr?
a player with breakaway speed is great and all but if you add GOOD HANDS and strength(as in the rb strong-getting hit every down type)to the equation...what is the deal there can he not run sharp routes or what?... anyone?
Posted by cu_1982 on August 22, 2008 at 12:04 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I think Sumler will surprise people this year. The guy is the all-time San Diego HS rushing record holder - topping Reggie Bush, Rashaan Salaam, and some other big names:
CIF-SDS career rushing leaders Top 10 leaders
5,650 Demetrius Sumler, Cathedral Catholic (2005) and USDHS (2002-04)
5,397 Justin Green, USDHS (1997-99)
5,158 Markeith Ross, Rancho Buena Vista (1988-90)
5,039 Patrick Gates, Marian Catholic (2000-2003)
4,982 Rashaan Salaam, La Jolla Country Day (1989-91)
4,968 Johnnie Holmes, St. Augustine (1995-97)
4,965 Marlin Carey, Mt. Carmel (1991-93)
4,925 Reggie Bush, Helix (2000-02)
4,685 Ricky Williams, Patrick Henry (1992-94)
4,583 Gary Taylor, Morse (1989-91)
Be patient and watch - this could be Sumler's breakout year.
Posted by mallcrawl08 on August 22, 2008 at 3:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)
keepfolsomfolsom,
I don't know if D Sumler has what can be considered "breakaway speed" (4.6 in the 40 is good speed). That could be the reason he stays at half back. Also, as cu_82 mentioned: he has great power running back instincts.
But, on the other hand, I would love to see a guy who is 210 lbs and can catch the ball over the middle or on sideline routes and blast his way for TDs. So, hopefully they will keep him in the game on a constant basis somewhere/somehow.
I have also heard that he is a bright guy with a big heart and you can't get too of those rare types of players on one's team. Go CU!