Colorado’s Win Exposed Strengths — and Some Major Concerns

Coach Prime remains one of the most polarizing figures in college football, and Colorado’s latest game provided plenty to discuss beyond the final score.

The biggest concern was the passing game, which at times looked almost nonexistent. Julian looked flustered, particularly when he and the center appeared out of sync. He lost the ball several times, missed open receivers and didn’t always look like he had a firm handle on the offense.

One noticeable issue was his reluctance to run when nothing was available downfield. There were several opportunities where Julian could have picked up yards with his legs rather than forcing a throw or taking a sack.

The receivers also struggled to make an impact. The wide receivers were largely non-factors, while the tight ends were virtually nonexistent throughout the game.

The Running Game Carried Colorado

Colorado’s biggest offensive strength was its running game. The Buffaloes rushed for more than 180 yards, and that production was a major reason they were able to win.

The offensive coordinator’s go-go offensive approach was most effective when Colorado committed to the run. The running game gave the offense some balance and helped take pressure off Julian.

Despite his struggles, Julian did make some key throws late in the game. His biggest moment came on a crucial touchdown that helped Colorado secure the victory.

Defense Came Through

Colorado’s defense also deserves credit.

The defense played well overall and limited the opposing passing attack. Georgia Tech’s quarterback was held without a touchdown, and Colorado gave up only one passing touchdown.

Lamont Lester was especially disruptive, recording three sacks.

The defense did have some issues on key possessions, but it generally kept Colorado in position to win.

Special Teams Remains a Concern

Special teams is another area Colorado needs to clean up, particularly the kicking game.

Colorado gave up a 100-yard kickoff return for a touchdown to Rahkeem Smith, and the Buffaloes also had a kick blocked.

Those types of mistakes can become costly against better competition.

The Bottom Line

Colorado found a way to win, but the game exposed some clear areas that need improvement.

The good:

• More than 180 rushing yards
• Key late throws from Julian
• A crucial touchdown
• Three sacks from Lamont Lester
• Defense limited the opposing passing game
• Georgia Tech’s quarterback had no passing touchdowns

The concerns:

• Passing game was inconsistent
• Julian appeared flustered at times
• Center and quarterback appeared out of sync
• Several missed receivers
• Ball-security issues
• Reluctance to run when plays broke down
• Wide receivers and tight ends had little impact
• Special teams gave up a 100-yard kickoff return TD
• Colorado had a kick blocked
• Kicking remains a concern

Colorado got the win, but the formula was clear: the running game and defense carried the Buffaloes, while the passing game and special teams left plenty to be desired.