November 10th 2024.
The CU Buffs' victory over the Texas Tech Red Raiders in Big 12 play at Jones AT&T Stadium on Saturday was a sight to behold. It was a testament to the growth and improvement of the team, particularly in their defense. Robert Livingston's defense has truly been the biggest difference between their previous 4-8 record and their current standing as Big 12 title contenders. In the past, an offensive start like the one they had on Saturday would have spelled disaster for the Buffs, but this time, the defense held strong and gave the offense time to find their rhythm. They shut down TTU's run game and kept them out of the end zone for six consecutive possessions after their initial drive. The shallow crossing routes that initially caused trouble for CU were quickly shut down, sacks were made, and the offense found their footing.
There was a noticeable change in the game after the first quarter, when the Buffs' running game was struggling to gain yards. It's been said that it takes at least two possessions to gauge the strength of an opposing Big 12 defense against the Buffs, and the key indicator is their ability to stop CU's run game. If the Buffs are able to gain 4-5 yards with each carry, it's a clear sign that the opponent is in for a tough match. However, if they're only gaining 2-3 yards, it's a sign that CU is in for a tough battle. This was evident in the first quarter of Saturday's game, when the running backs were only able to muster 6 yards on three carries. As a result, play-caller Pat Shurmur shifted to a pass-heavy strategy. Even with a talented NFL quarterback like Shedeur Sanders, maintaining a balance between passing and running plays is crucial. When the Buffs stray from this balance, they become more vulnerable.
But despite this, the Buffs have a plethora of gifted players who make it incredibly difficult for opponents to stop them. Take Will Sheppard, for example. He's a receiver who would easily be the top option on most FBS teams, but on CU's stacked wide receiver corps, he's third or fourth in line. Sheppard's skills were on full display during the game, with one of his standout moments being when he caught a jump ball in the end zone while being bear-hugged by a defender. This was just one of three touchdown passes thrown by Shedeur Sanders, showcasing the Buffs' ability to come back from a slow start and secure a victory.
In terms of traditions, we understand the value and importance they hold. For instance, if someone who was unfamiliar with CU football was told that a live buffalo runs onto the field before every home game, they might think it sounds crazy. So, we can understand Deion Sanders' initial reaction when asked about the tradition of throwing tortillas in Lubbock. However, after witnessing it firsthand on Saturday, we can't help but agree with Coach Prime's sentiment. It essentially gives the fans the freedom to throw anything at any time, which can become a problem when the Buffs start to pull away in the second half. Plus, it's easy to mistake the tortillas for penalty flags, which can be quite annoying.
On a lighter note, we have to give a shoutout to Travis Hunter for his incredible play during the game. Although it didn't count due to a penalty, his interception on a "free play" was a thing of beauty. He effortlessly outjumped a receiver and caught the ball with ease, then promptly handed it back to the official as if it was a routine occurrence. Of course, he also made plenty of impressive plays that did count, including a 24-yard touchdown catch and a total of nine catches for 99 yards. After his standout performance, it's no surprise that the opposing quarterback didn't dare to throw in his direction again.
Finally, we have to mention the positive turn of events in the Big 12 championship race. With Kansas upsetting No. 17 Iowa State, CU's path to the conference championship game is now clear and simple: just win their remaining games and they'll have a shot at the title and possibly even a spot in the College Football Playoff. Who would have thought this was possible before Shedeur Sanders' miraculous Hail Mary throw against Baylor? It just goes to show that anything is possible in college football.
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