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The Colorado Buffaloes' defensive unit is set to face a significant challenge this week as they aim to slow down the Utah Utes' high-powered offense. Defensive linemen Lamont Lester Jr. and Santana Hooper will be counted on to apply pressure on Utah's quarterback, Devon Dampier. Dampier, a true dual-threat talent, has accumulated 1,134 passing yards and 15 total touchdowns across the first five games of the season.
Colorado's defensive front could receive a boost with the anticipated return of Lester, who sat out the Texas Tech game due to an injury sustained against Baylor. Lester's presence is vital because of his ability to quickly defeat blockers at the line of scrimmage and disrupt opposing offenses. His addition should enhance the defense's overall pressure.
Dampier averages 11.4 rushing attempts per game, but Utah's offensive threat extends beyond him. First-year offensive coordinator Kevin McGiven has excelled with his play-calling, often deploying a two-quarterback system that features both Dampier and backup Byrd Ficklin on the field simultaneously. Ficklin can line up as a running back, tight end, or receiver on any given play. Additionally, running back Wayshawn Parker poses a challenge for the Buffaloes, particularly on screen passes out of the backfield and between-the-tackles runs.
For Colorado, maintaining gap discipline will be essential to force Dampier and Utah's running backs to operate behind the chains for all four quarters. However, this is a tall order, especially given the Buffaloes' history of allowing yards and points. Statistically, Utah's defense ranks among the stingiest in college football, which will test Colorado's 'Go-Go' offense, which averages only 10.3 points per game against Power 4 opponents.
Key Analysis
A major question looming for the Buffaloes is the identity of their starting quarterback. There has been speculation about former five-star recruit Julian Lewis's mental focus. If Lewis is named the starter against Texas Tech, his last performance will be scrutinized. Previously, former Utah QB Issac Wilson started and struggled against the Texas Tech Red Raiders, completing 26-of-44 passes for 290 yards and a touchdown. Wilson's four turnovers, including a pick-six in the end zone, were pivotal in Colorado's offensive struggles and allowed the Red Raiders to extend their lead. Furthermore, Colorado's offensive play sheet was reportedly left in a hotel bar and picked up by Texas Tech fans.
This week, the Buffaloes must establish their rushing attack inside, as the Utes possess disruptive defensive linemen of their own. Utah's defensive line will look to disrupt Colorado's offense early and often. The Buffaloes need to find a way to strike quickly and frequently to neutralize Utah's aggressive play. Will Colorado overcome its own mistakes, from the coaching staff to the players? An answer will come soon enough.
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Originally reported by yahoo.