Spring Practice Notes

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Spring Practice Notes

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May 5th

Neill Woelk: Spring Practices, 2021, checked all the boxes

From CUBuffs.com … When Karl Dorrell’s Colorado Buffaloes hit the field in August for the beginning of fall camp, they will be a much, much different team than the bunch we saw last fall.

Much improved. Much deeper. And, if their summer session goes as planned, much more confident.

Those improvements will all be an extension of the Buffs’ first spring session under Dorrell, one he and his assistant coaches utilized as a springboard to summer and fall camp.

By all accounts, the spring was a successful endeavor. What CU fans can take away from the spring:

— Development of roster depth was a priority and the Buffs met that priority. Given the circumstances leading up to last season, Dorrell had almost no time to develop anything past a two-deep depth chart. CU had no spring session, an abbreviated summer session and a rushed fall camp. Colorado coaches were forced into hurry-up mode to prepare for the season — which they did with admirable results.

But now, after 15 spring practices, the Buffs have more depth across the board and more players who are more comfortable in the new defensive and offensive schemes.

Even at places where the Buffs were thin this spring, particularly on the offensive and defensive fronts, they were able to develop some young players who will be critical in providing depth next fall.

That comfort level within the schemes breeds confidence. Confidence opens the door to the ability to play faster and be more aggressive. Those traits will be invaluable in CU’s summer development.

— Dorrell’s culture now has a foundation. Dorrell’s first year in Boulder left little opportunity for him to implement the culture he expected.

But now, with a new strength coach, a new defensive coordinator and some other new assistants — plus plenty of face-to-face time with his team this spring — he has had time to make clear what he expect from the Buffaloes.

Now, things like “accountability,” “ownership” and “discipline” are more than just words. The Buffs know what is expected of them in those areas and they know how to build those traits and make them foundational pieces of the program.

A year ago, Dorrell and his staff were scrambling to find ways to engage the players on a regular basis.

That won’t be a problem this summer. Dorrell’s culture is taking shape — and this Buffs team should be ready to take the next step in the fall.

… Continue reading story here …

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May 2nd 

**Video – Colorado Spring Showcase Highlights**

From YouTube …

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April 30th – Game Day

Karl Dorrell: “I was encouraged by the whole body of work this spring”

From the Daily Camera … Colorado head football coach Karl Dorrell is glad the Buffaloes have another four months to get ready to play games, but he walked away from Folsom Field on Friday feeling good about the latest phase of the program’s development.

“I was encouraged by the whole body of work this spring,” Dorrell said after the Buffaloes’ spring showcase on Friday morning. “I thought they worked hard. I think our young guys have a good feel, or better feel, of what we’re doing on offense and defense. Then, we need a lot of summer work to kind of put all the icing on the cake.”

CU opens its season Sept. 3 at Folsom Field against Northern Colorado and Friday’s showcase, in front of about 1,000 socially distanced fans, was the completion of the second phase of the offseason. After winter workouts, the Buffs got through the 15 practices of spring and felt they got better – even with a roster depleted by injuries.

“I thought the team did really well throughout the spring,” freshman quarterback Brendon Lewis said. “You could tell we were getting better and better each day. I feel really confident going into summer.”

… Continue reading story here …

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Spring Game Statistics

Total Plays: 67 (56 scrimmage plus 4 placement kicks/0 2-point conversions/4 punts/3 kickoff/0 muff/0 blk/0 cancelled by penalty)

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Drives … 

Plays/Yards …

• Brendon Lewis: 17/80
• J.T. Shrout: 23/107
• Drew Carter: 6/35
• Grant Ciccarone: 6/50
• Jordan Woolverton: 4/8
• Total … 56/280 (5.0 average/play)

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Passing statistics … 

J.T. Shrout (5 drives) … 13- 9- 0 … 69.2% … 77 yards … 1 touchdown … long of 27 … sacked: 2/15 … rating: 144.4
Brendon Lewis (3 drives) … 9- 8- 0 … 88.9% … 62 yards … 0 touchdowns … long of 22 … sacked: 1/ 8 … rating: 146.8
Grant Ciccarone (1 drive) .. 3- 3- 0 … 100.0% … 22 yards … 0 touchdowns … long of 11 … sacked: 0/ 0 … rating: 161.6
Drew Carter (1 drive) .. 1- 1- 0 … 100.0% … 15 yards … 0 touchdowns … long of 15 … sacked: 0/ 0 … rating: 226.0
Jordan Woolverton (1 drive) … 2- 1- 0 … 50.0% … 5 yards … 0 touchdowns … long of 5 … sacked: 0/ 0 … rating: 71.0

Totals (11 drives) … 28-22-0 … 78.6% … 181 yards … 1 touchdown … long of 27 … sacked: 3/23 … rating: 144.7

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Rushing statistics … 

Ashaad Clayton … 5 carries … 40 yards … 8.0/carry … 2 first downs … long of 24
Joe Davis … 6 carries … 25 yards … 4.2/carry … 2 first downs … long of 9
Alex Fontenot … 5 carries … 21 yards … 4.2/carry … 2 first downs … long of 11
Charlie Offerdahl … 5 carries … 20 yards … 4.0/carry … 1 touchdown … 1 first down ..  long of 11
Brendon Lewis … 1 carry … 10 yards … 10.0/carry … long of 10
Jayle Stacks … 2 carries … 5 yards … 2.5/carry … 1 touchdown … long of 3t
Jordan Woolverton … 1 carry … 1 yard … 1.0/carry … long of 1

Totals … 25 carries … 122 yards … 4.8/carry … 2 touchdowns … 7 first downs … long of 24

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Receiving statistics … 

La’Vontae Shenault … 3 receptions for 38 yards … 12.7/average …  2 first downs … long of 22
Montana Lemonious-Craig … 3 receptions for 37 yards … 12.3/average … 1 first down … long of 27
Keith Miller … 3 receptions for 30 yards … 10.0/average … 3 first downs … long of 12
Dimitri Stanley … 3 receptions for 26 yards … 8.7/average … 2 first downs … long of 10
Caleb Fauria … 2 receptions for 26 yards … 13.0/average … 2 first downs … long of 15
Jayle Stacks … 2 receptions for 3 yards … 1.5/average … long of 6
Alec Pell … 1 reception for 10 yards … 10.0/average … 1 touchdown … one first down … long of 10t
Daniel Arias… 1 reception for 8 yards … 8.0/average … long of 8
Jake Groth … 1 reception for 6 yards … 6.0/average … long of 6
Ashaad Clayton … 1 reception for 1 yards … 1.0/average … long of 1
Joe Davis … 1 reception for -1 yards … -1.0/average … long of -1
Alex Fontenot … 1 reception for -3 yards … -3.0/average … long of -3

Totals ... 22 receptions for 181 yards … 8.2/average … 1 touchdown … 12 first downs … long of 27

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Tackles

Jonathan Van Diest … five tackles; five unassisted …
Robert Barnes … five tackles; four unassisted … one third down stop
Joshka Gustav … three tackles; three unassisted … two quarterback sacks … one third down stop
Justin Jackson … three tackles; two unassisted … one quarterback sack
Trustin Oliver … three tackles; one unassisted …

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**Video Interviews from CU’s Spring Showcase**

From YouTube, courtesy of CUSportsNation …

Head coach Karl Dorrell …

Quarterback Brendon Lewis … 

Cornerback Christian Gonzalez …

Offensive lineman Colby Pursell …

Linebacker Jon Van Diest … 

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Spring Showcase: What to Watch For … 

From the Daily Camera … Friday’s showcase won’t provide much of a preview of the 2021 Buffaloes, considering the number of players sidelined. Many young players will be in the spotlight, and Dorrell said the Buffs are so thin in some spots that they don’t have a full two-deep on either side of the ball.

While it won’t be a true Black vs. Gold type of scrimmage, there will be plenty to see for the 1,000 fans in attendance and those watching on TV. During the CU-produced spring showcase virtual event on Wednesday, Dorrell told Mark Johnson the Buffs will do some situational scrimmaging, as they’ve done on previous Fridays.

“We want to get some two-minute in, we want to get some red zone play in, we want to do some situational play in, but full speed and tackling,” Dorrell said.

Dorrell added that he would have mic on so he can narrate during the Pac-12 Networks broadcast and let viewers know what is going on with each period. CU hopes to get through 60-70 plays.

Positions to watch …

1. Quarterback: Incumbent starter Sam Noyer is out with a shoulder injury, but returning freshman Brendon Lewis and sophomore JT Shrout, a transfer from Tennessee, have been competing throughout the spring. Both will hope to finish spring on a high note. There will also be a chance to get a first look at true freshman Drew Carter.

2. Running back: It’s unclear if Jarek Broussard, the Pac-12 offensive player of the year in 2020, will play because he’s been hobbled by an ankle injury. However, the Buffs are as talented here as they’ve been in a while. Junior Alex Fontenot and freshman Ashaad Clayton have both had a good spring, while Joe Davis and Jayle Stacks have had good moments, as well.

… Continue reading story here …

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April 29th 

**Post-practice video: ILB Coach Mark Smith; RB Coach Darian Hagan; QB Sam Noyer**

From YouTube, courtesy of BuffStampede.com …

Inside linebackers coach Mark Smith … 

Running backs coach Darian Hagan … 

Quarterback Sam Noyer … 

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PK Evan Price “taking advantage of the opportunity he gets”

From the Daily Camera … Called upon in the final seconds of a tie game against Stanford on Nov. 9, 2019, Evan Price delivered the game-winning field goal.

In fact, most of the time Colorado has asked Price to produce he has done the job.

Still, entering his fourth season with the Buffaloes, the sophomore walk-on placekicker continues fighting to nail down a full-time job. That fight has continued this spring, and he is once again proving to be a reliable performer.

“Evan Price has had a good spring,” CU head coach Karl Dorrell said. “He’s been our most consistent kicker. He’s another one of those guys, he’s taking advantage of the opportunity he gets.”

This spring, Price is competing once again with fellow walk-ons Tyler Francis and Mac Willis and feels good about his progress.

“Health-wise I’m feeling really good,” he said. “It’s not as demanding as fall camp.”

There is some pressure to perform every day, however, because Dorrell has placed an expectation of competition at every position.

“Right now we’re not settling on who’s going to be the starter in the fall,” Dorrell said. “We’re going to bring all these competitions at all these positions all the way into (fall) camp.”

… Continue reading story here …

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April 28th

P Josh Watts: “I feel like I still haven’t punted my best in games”

From the Daily Camera … Just as the Colorado football team was wrapping up the 2020 season, punter Josh Watts started to feel a bit more comfortable in his role.

New to the game last season, Watts said he felt more confident by the time the Buffaloes played in the Valero Alamo Bowl on Dec. 29. Although the season ended at that point, the junior has carried that momentum into the spring.

“Towards the back end of the year I started to feel more comfortable, but I feel like I definitely still haven’t punted my best in games and I’m looking to do it this year for sure,” said Watts, who has two more seasons of eligibility at CU.

A native of Hobart, Tasmania, an island state of Australia, Watts, 25, played in the Australian Football League before joining the Buffs in December of 2019. He learned to punt at ProKick Australia Academy – which has sent numerous punters and kickers to United States colleges – but had never played American football until last year.

“I had only seen a couple of games,” he said. “To be honest, I wasn’t that nervous (last season) because I didn’t know what to expect.”

Watts did need some time to adjust, however.

… Continue reading story here …

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April 26th

**Post-Practice Video – Karl Dorrell; P Josh Watts; K Evan Price**

From YouTube, courtesy of CUSportsNation …

Punter Josh Watts … 

Kicker Evan Price … 

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Brady Russell enjoying young group of tight ends: “It’s been fun” 

From the Daily Camera … Although Brady Russell is an established veteran with the Buffs, there is plenty for him to do this spring.

For starters, he’s working with the fourth tight ends coach (Bryan Cook) of his career.

“I’ve learned a lot of different things, a lot of different techniques and gotten to piece together what I like myself, so it’s been valuable,” he said.

Russell is also working with a new set of quarterbacks, with senior Sam Noyer out this spring with an injury. Freshman Brendon Lewis, Tennessee transfer JT Shrout and true freshman Drew Carter are the healthy scholarship quarterbacks this spring. Russell has never played a game with any of them.

“You want to know each other inside and out,” Russell said. “So it’s been fun watching them play and seeing them progress over the spring and seeing them take different steps.

“They’re all kind of progressing at different rates. … That’s been one of the fun things, too, is building that chemistry now that I am healthy and I can go work with them. It’s been fun.”

Another step in Russell’s growth is becoming a leader and working this spring with a young group of tight ends that includes freshmen Caleb Fauria and Louis Passarello.

… Continue reading story here …

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April 25th

Karl Dorrell: “To me, the number one goal (this spring) is getting our young players reps to get caught up to what we’re doing”

From the Daily Camera … Following the whirlwind of 2020, Dorrell and his staff have done their best to take a big-picture approach to develop the entire program.

“To me, the number one goal (this spring) is getting our young players reps to get caught up to what we’re doing and also watching how they’re development goes and being able to teach fundamentals and being able to help bring those guys along,” Dorrell said Friday after the Buffs completed the 12th of their 15 spring practices.

Given the injuries, this spring is hardly a fair preview of the fall. The Buffs have 11 players who have missed all of the spring because of injury, including last year’s starting quarterback, Sam Noyer, and two-time All-Pac-12 linebacker Nate Landman.

CU had 37 players make at least one start on offense or defense last year. Seven have moved on from the team, while at least 14 others have missed all or part of spring.

Missing so many key players gives Dorrell and his staff no choice but to hand reps to less experienced players, but that’s important for the development of the entire roster.

The Buffs did most of their offseason work through virtual meetings and had a few weeks of practice to get ready for the season. Remarkably, they exceeded expectations by going 4-2 and reaching the Valero Alamo Bowl.

Since returning from the holiday break in January, the players and coaches have had more time to get to know each other.

… Continue reading story here …

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April 24th

Sophomore DL Jalen Sami doesn’t feel like one: “I feel like I’m a super senior here”

From the Daily Camera … On the Colorado football roster, Jalen Sami is listed as a sophomore, which suggests he’s a young player.

The 6-foot-6, 325-pound defensive lineman is actually a veteran, though, and he’s looking to take his game to another level this year.

“I feel like I’m a super senior here,” Sami said Friday after the Buffaloes completed the 12th of their 15 spring practices.

It’s been quite a journey for Sami, but he’s far from done.

Sami graduated from Vista Ridge High School in Colorado Springs in 2017, and then grayshirted, which means he delayed his enrollment until January of 2018. Then, he redshirted in 2018.

Although he has played two seasons with the Buffs, the NCAA did not count the 2020 season towards eligibility for any players because of the COVID-19 pandemic. That leaves Sami with potentially three more seasons to play.

During the past two seasons, Sami has been a rock on the defensive line, starting 13 of the 16 games he’s played and logging 577 snaps. This spring, the Buffs are short-handed on the defensive line, so Sami, in the mix for a starting role again, is receiving a lot of reps with the first and second-team units.

… Continue reading story here …

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April 23rd

**Post-scrimmage Video: Karl Dorrell; DL Jalen Sami; TE Brady Russell**

From YouTube, courtesy of BuffsTV …

Defensive lineman Jalen Sami … 

Tight end Brady Russell … 

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April 22nd

6’10” OL Gerad Christian-Lichtenhan presents unique challenge: “We’ve got to get him to bend”

… Related … “Buffs Coaches Like Progress Of O-Line, OLBs” … from CUBuffs.com

From the Daily Camera … Although the Buffs have been shorthanded up front, offensive line coach Mitch Rodrigue said the situation has benefitted some young players. In particular, freshman tackle Gerad Christian-Lichtenhan – nicknamed “Tank” – has taken advantage of the opportunity, as he’s playing left tackle with Fillip out.

“Not only has he been playing left tackle but he’s been playing left tackle with the one group, and the two group because he’s the only tackle we’ve got,” Rodrigue said. “He’s getting double the amount of reps, but I would say that he has benefited most from the adversity that we’ve faced.”

At 6-foot-10, 330 pounds, Christian-Lichtenhan is the tallest player in CU football history and Rodrigue is seeing the young tackle develop.

“We’ve got to get him to bend, that’s the No. 1 thing,” Rodrigue said. “He’s got to bend at his ankles and his knees and his hips. He’s got to realize that he’s not going to face anyone that is as tall as he is. The work in the weight room and developing his core and strengthening his core, he’s starting to play a little lower, but that’s a process that’s going to take a while.”

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April 21st 

**Video interviews: OL Coach Mitch Rodrigue; OLB Coach Brian Michalowski; OL Kary Kutsch**

From YouTube, courtesy of BuffStampede.com …

Offensive line coach Mitch Rodrigue … 

Outside linebacker coach Brian Michalowski … 

Offensive lineman Kary Kutsch … 

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Lack of depth on D-Line leading to unexpected benefit: “They’re getting a ton of reps”

From the Daily Camera … Colorado doesn’t have a lot of numbers on the defensive line this spring, but those who are participating are making an impression.

“They’re getting a ton of reps, they’re getting better and they’re seeing it, too,” CU head coach Karl Dorrell said. “We’re only playing with about four to five defensive linemen right now and thank goodness we have outside backers to be edge players, but we’re not real deep right now. But, I do like where these guys have grown and where they’ve improved.”

CU is projected to have 13 defensive linemen on scholarship in the fall, but four are freshmen who won’t enroll until the summer. This spring, Jeremiah Doss and Terrance Lang have been dealing with injuries, while Janaz Jordan has been slowed by the flu.

The lack of depth has allowed players such as junior Justin Jackson, sophomores Na’im Rodman, Jalen Sami and Austin Williams and redshirt freshmen Lloyd Murray Jr. and Jayden Simon to develop more.

“Na’im Rodman has really had a solid spring to this point,” Dorrell said. “I’m really encouraged but what Na’im is doing and Justin Jackson making some positive improvement; Austin Williams is getting in better shape. … All of those guys are getting so much better.”

Jordan started four games last year and has played well this spring when healthy.

“You can tell once he gets in shape, he’s gonna be so much better, too,” Dorrell said.

… Read full story here …

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Brenden Rice: “If you don’t have confidence, you can’t take that next step”

From the Daily Camera … As a true freshman last season, Brenden Rice showed that he might be something different for the Buffaloes. With a 6-foot-3, 205-pound frame, solid speed and exceptional genes, Rice had a debut season in 2020 that was electric at times, and might just be the launching point for a stellar career at CU.

The son of NFL Hall of Famer Jerry Rice, who is considered by many to be the greatest receiver to ever play the game, Rice caught six passes for 120 yards and two touchdowns, returned a punt 81 yards for a touchdown and averaged 18.5 yards on two kickoff returns in CU’s COVID-19-shortened season.

Despite playing among a group loaded with talent, Rice scored on three of the nine times he touched the ball.

“Being under the wing of KD Nixon and people like Maurice Bell, Vontae Shenault, the confidence factor is everything in the wide receiver game,” Rice said. “You see (former NFL star) Chad Ochocinco, and all these great wide receivers; if you don’t have confidence, you can’t take that next step.

“As soon as I caught my first touchdown, I got my feel for the game and it truly balanced out, and I felt as though I can truly come in here and make an impact, day in and day out in every single game.”

… Continue reading story here …

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April 20th

Is this the year for Daniel Arias? – “He’s a completely different player now”

From the Daily Camera … Entering his fourth season with the Buffs, receiver Daniel Arias is still aiming for a breakout year. Dorrell said the 6-foot-4, 205-pound junior is off to a good start.

“You can tell every time he’s out practicing he’s so much more confident, he’s so much more assertive,” Dorrell said. “You feel his speed on the field because he’s a lot more comfortable knowing what his information is and what he needs to perform and do.”

Including the Valero Alamo Bowl, Arias had six catches for 105 yards last season and has caught 10 passes in his career. He hauled in a 31-yard touchdown during a scrimmage on Friday.

“To me, he’s a completely different player now than what I saw of him in the fall,” Dorrell said. “I didn’t see the assertiveness and him being confident, that he knew what he was doing. That’s completely changed right now when you watch him. He’s playing fast, he’s strong and big and he’s having a really good spring so far.”

… Read full story here …

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April 19th

**Video: Karl Dorrell post-practice talk with media – S Mark Perry; WR Brenden Rice**

From YouTube, courtesy of BuffStampede.com …

Safety Mark Perry … 

Wide receiver Brenden Rice … 

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J.T. Shrout happy for opportunity: “It’s been a good transition and I’m loving it so far”

From the Daily Camera … In Shrout, the Buffs add a talented quarterback with some experience. With the Volunteers, Shrout played in eight games, with one start, completing 37-of-69 passes for 494 yards, five touchdowns and three interceptions.

“Obviously it was super fun, just getting to play,” he said. “Out there, you’re playing in a good conference, playing with some of the best teams in the country and it’s just always good experience to have under your belt.

“I think just the game experience is something you can’t really teach, you can’t really get in practice. You can get something similar but it’s not the same, so having those few games that I got to play in was really awesome and it is going to be something that’s going to really help me in the future, I think.”

Shrout admitted he’s still getting used to dealing with snow, but he’s enjoying his teammates and the competition in the quarterback room.

“I love the school, love the atmosphere out here,” he said. “I’ve been getting to go hang out with guys outside the facility and built relationships with them. Then I just spend a lot of time in here with the coaching staff, trying to catch up on the playbook and everything. It has been a good transition and I’m loving it so far.”

… Read full story here …

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April 18th

Extra Points: Notables from the second scrimmage

From CUBuffs.com …

SETTLING IN: J.T. Shrout continues to show a solid comfort level with an offense he just began learning at the semester break after transferring from Tennessee. He moved the offense consistently and his two TD passes were both squarely on the money in tight windows.

 “I thought J.T. did a nice job today,” Dorrell said. “He’s quickly digesting our information. You can tell his comfort level is really starting to get noticed because he’s being more accurate, he’s being efficient with the football and he’s taking advantage of the things he sees. I’m very pleased with where J.T. is. We need a couple more weeks to continue to bring him along and B Lew (Brendon Lewis).”

Lewis also had some bright spots, breaking a couple of long run and also connecting with Dimitri Stanley for a pair of first downs.

SCRIMMAGE TIDBITS: Freshman tight end Caleb Fauria caught a touchdown pass.  “He is at that point now that he’s made a few plays and his confidence is growing,” Dorrell said. “If we can continue to bring him along where he’s making productive plays and gaining his confidence, he’ll be a factor to help us in the fall.” … Joe Davis continues to be a steady factor in the backfield, even in the face of competing with Broussard, Fontenot and Clayton. He’s an adept receiver (he caught a touchdown from Shrout in a two-minute drill earlier this week) and can run inside and out. “Joe has been really solid in doing all those types of things, really from the start,” Dorrell said. “He’s kind of an unsung hero — he doesn’t draw a lot of attention. But you recognize that when Joe’s on the field, he’s usually a very productive kid, he’s a dependable kid. He plays that role for us really, really well.” … Dimitri Stanley had some nice yards after the catch on a couple of plays … True freshman QB Drew Carter also got some snaps and produced several nice throws, including the touchdown to Fauria … Safety Isaiah Lewis recorded an interception and Mark Perry made plays on the back end and on the line from his safety spot … Josh Jynes (guard) and Gerad Christian-Lichtenhan (tackle) worked with the No. 1 offense.

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Running backs being more integrated into the CU passing game: “We feel good about our backs in space”

From CUBuffs.com … What is becoming increasingly clear on the offensive side is that the Buffs are blessed with an abundance of talent in the backfield. Even with Jarek Broussard sitting out Friday with a tender ankle, CU’s backs produced consistently in the run and passing game.

Alex Fontenot, Joe Davis, Ashaad Clayton and Jayle Stacks all had nice runs, with Fontenot breaking tackles up the middle several times to pick up extra yardage.

“I was impressed with Alex today,” Dorrell said. “He was very assertive. He wasn’t tippy-toeing on anything. He was running hard and getting through the line of scrimmage. What I saw on film in 2019 (when Fontenot led the Buffs in rushing) is what I saw Alex Fontenot do today. That was a really, really positive sign that he’s back and he’s going to have some great value for us in our backfield.”

The Buffs are also making a concerted effort on offense to make their backs an integral part of the passing game. Every CU back caught at least one ball Friday, with Stacks breaking a 25-yard gain, Davis hauling in a couple for first downs and Fontenot and Clayton also getting in on the action.

“That’s the one area I think a lot of teams use as the second or third spot in the passing progression — if there’s nothing there, check it down to the back,” Dorrell said. “We do have some featured plays for the back, where he’s the first read. We feel good about our backs in space. In space, it’s hard to bring these backs down.”

… Read full scrimmage report here …

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April 16th 

Alex Fontenot shines in second spring scrimmage

… Related … “Spring Scrimmage No. 2 Notebook: Observations & Thoughts” … from CUSportsNation

… Related … “Notes: Alex Fontenot runs hard during Colorado’s second spring scrimmage” … from BuffStampede.com

From the Daily Camera … Colorado’s defense had another solid day on Friday, while a veteran showed some vintage production to lead the offense.

On a snowy afternoon, the CU football team held its second scrimmage of the spring at the indoor practice facility, and after the defense dominated a week earlier, this one saw more back-and-forth. The defense came up with several big plays, but running back Alex Fontenot had a big day, as did quarterback JT Shrout.

“I know we were thin in a lot of spots,” head coach Karl Dorrell said. “We couldn’t go as long as we’d like … but I felt our guys competed well. I thought there was a lot of give and take, where the offense was making some plays and the defense was making some plays.”

The Buffs’ leading rusher in 2019, Fontenot missed the 2020 season with a hip injury but had a big day Friday. Unofficially he had nearly 100 yards in total offense, including a long run of about 30 yards, during which he ran through safety Mark Perry downfield. Fontenot added another run of about 15 yards and caught a screen pass for another 12-15 yards.

“I was impressed with Alex today,” Dorrell said. “He was very assertive. He wasn’t tippy-toeing on anything. I thought he was running hard and getting through the line of scrimmage. Really what I saw on film in 2019 is what I saw Alex Fontenot do today, so that was a really, really positive sign that he’s back and he’s gonna have some great value for us in our backfield.”

CU ran nearly 70 plays, including some goal-line situations late in the scrimmage.

Shrout overcame a slow start to unofficially complete 5-of-8 passes for two touchdowns. He started 2-for-5 with a tipped interception, but then threw a nice touchdown pass to Montana Lemonious-Craig in the corner of the end zone and hit Daniel Arias for about a 30-yard touchdown on a deep pass.

… Continue reading story here …

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**Video: Karl Dorrell’s post-scrimmage talk with media**

From YouTube, courtesy CUSportsNation …

Quarterback J.T. Shrout … 

Safety Ray Robinson … 

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QB Brendon Lewis: “It feels like feels more and more like high school and I can just do my thing”

From the Daily Camera … A 6-foot-2, 225-pound freshman from Melissa, Texas, Brendon Lewis was the third-string quarterback during the Buffs’ abbreviated 2020 season. After the five-game regular season, however, backup Tyler Lytle entered the transfer portal – and eventually transferred to Massachusetts – and Lewis was elevated to second string for the Alamo Bowl.

Although the Buffs lost to Texas, 55-23, in that game on Dec. 29 in San Antonio, Lewis came off the bench to lead them to three touchdowns.

“Going in (to the season), it was definitely hard coming in and getting adjusted to everything,” Lewis said. “I just had to get adjusted to the speed of the game, and I think that whole half-season that we had really helped me, like going through practice, learning from coach Langsdorf and (head coach Karl) Dorrell, (offensive coordinator Darrin Chiaverini). Then, when I got in that game, I felt like I was ready.”

He certainly looked ready, as he completed a 26-yard pass to Dimitri Stanley on his first throw and finished the game going 6-for-10 for 95 yards and rushing for 73 yards and a touchdown on nine carries.

“I went in there with a little bit of confidence and after that first completion, I was like, ‘Oh this feels like high school,’” he said. “After that game, I knew I had a lot of stuff to work on in (the offseason) and that’s what I did. I knew I would be ready to come here in the spring and I feel like I did a pretty good job with that.

“Now everything just comes fast and easy. It feels like feels more and more like high school and I can just do my thing.”

… Continue reading story here …

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April 14th

**Video interviews: QB coach Danny Langsdorf; CB coach Demetrice Martin; QB Brendon Lewis**

From YouTube, courtesy of BuffStampede.com …

Quarterbacks coach Danny Langsdorf … 

Cornerbacks coach Demetrice Martin … 

Quarterback Brendon Lewis … 

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NCAA eliminates transfer rule (making QB J.T. Shrout eligible to play this season)

From the Associated Press … Starting next season, major college football and basketball players will be permitted to transfer one time before graduating without being required to sit out a year of competition.

The NCAA Division I Council voted Wednesday to changed the long-standing rule that has often deterred players in high-profile sports from switching schools, two people with knowledge of the council’s decision told The Associated Press.

The people spoke on condition of anonymity because two-day meeting was still in session and the council’s decisions would not become official until it ends Thursday. The Athletic first reported the council’s vote.

The so-called one-time exception has been available to athletes in other NCAA sports for years, allowing them to transfer and play immediately. Athletes in football, men’s and women’s basketball, men’s ice hockey and baseball have not had that available to them without asking the NCAA for a special waiver and claiming a hardship caused the need for a transfer.

Athletes who have graduated have also been permitted to transfer without sitting out, but not undergraduates.

Starting this fall semester, all athletes will be operating under the same rules: Transfers will be allowed to play right away.

… Continue reading story here …

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April 13th

Brenden Rice has yet to practice: “He’s going to have to make it up on the backend”

From the Daily Camera … Receiver Brenden Rice had several explosive plays last season for the Buffs but has yet to take off this spring. Prior to the start of spring practices, Rice dislocated his finger. Then, he had to go through COVID-19 protocol.

“He needs to get back practicing and playing, that’s his biggest challenge right now,” CU head coach Karl Dorrell said. “He’s not clear to practice yet but he’s out there watching. If he doesn’t start practicing this week, he’s going to miss three weeks of spring practice, so he’s behind, the way I look at it.”

The Buffs have held seven of 15 practices this spring, but even with the missed time, there are high hopes for Rice. As a true freshman in the fall, he caught six passes for 120 yards and two touchdowns and had an 81-yard punt return for a touchdown.

“We do feel like he’s a guy that can really help us, just like he did last year,” Dorrell said. “He has time to kind of get caught up. He’ll probably get a chance to practice the last couple of weeks and spring and then hopefully have a great summer, going into training camp and we’ll see how things stack up. He is missing some valuable time, but he’s just going to have to make it up on the backend.”

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Dorrell: “I feel like this team is really starting to grasp the concepts – I think we’re growing up a bit”

From the Daily Camera … A week ago, Dorrell was not pleased with the effort of the Buffs after a weekend off, but they’ve put together three solid practices since.

“I felt like their attention span was very focused and they felt that too,” Dorrell said. “At the end of practice, we talked a little bit about, ‘Men, if you keep practicing like that, there’s not much that’s going to be able to stop us. If we have a standard you can hold yourself to — a high standard — there won’t be a lot of teams that can get us this year.’ … I think that light bulb is starting to shine just a little bit brighter now.”

Nearly halfway through their 15 spring practices, the Buffs are progressing like Dorrell had hoped, even if they are a bit short-handed in some positions.

“I feel like this team is really starting to grasp the concepts and the things we’re really trying to preach, to get these things as part of our core in our system, both on offense and defense, and special teams,” Dorrell said. “I think we’re growing up a little bit.

“Hopefully we can stack up two more practices like that (this week).”

Getting to that point of growing up means Dorrell and other coaches have to lean on the team leaders to help the squad get ready for practice.

… Continue reading story here …

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April 12th

**Video – Karl Dorrell post-practice talk with media**

From YouTube, courtesy of CUSportsNation …

Running back Ashaad Clayton … 

Cornerback Mekhi Blackmon … 

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Freshmen making the most of their spring opportunities 

From CUBuffs.com … While a number of veterans are having solid camps, one of the highlights of the spring thus far has been the improvement of a number of young players.

That is, of course, one of the main goals of spring ball — give young players a chance to compete and develop. Dorrell has mentioned a number of youngsters and newcomers who have stood out thus far.

Some of those he mentioned after Friday’s scrimmage:

OT Jake Wiley — The redshirt freshman has stepped in at right tackle with the No. 1 offense and getting plenty of snaps to hone his skills. “He’s a guy that’s going to be factoring in an integral part to what we’re doing on offense this year,” Dorrell said.

ILBs Marvin Ham II and Alvin Williams — These two freshmen have consistently made plays. Williams had a sack in Friday’s workout while Ham made a nice break on a ball for a pass breakup over the middle in the team drills.

“I think both of those guys are getting fed confidence,” Dorrell said. “They’re getting a lot of snaps and getting better. They’re both explosive players. Once they get even more confident they’ll be playing even faster and continue to make plays they’re making. Both are making a lot of progress.”

RB Jayle Stacks — The 5-foot-11, 230-pound freshman got a couple of carries in scrimmage work and pounded out some tough yards. He’s one of the Buffs’ more versatile backs and can line up at several spots and is proving to be an adept receiver.

“He’s a load to bring down,” Dorrell said. “He’s one of those backs who’s a bigger back. He’s kind of a utility player for us. He catches the ball well out of the backfield, we get him in some run game, he does a number of things for us. We’ve been pleasantly surprised with Jayle. He seems like he’s got a comfort level with what we’re doing offensively. He’s a lot more comfortable doing a lot of different roles we’re asking him to play. It was good to see him have a few carries where he was actually carrying some people running down the field. I’m very happy with his progress.”

Safety Ray Robinson — After playing linebacker the last couple of years, the former safety seems to have found his comfort zone back in his old stomping grounds.

“Ray made a couple plays on the back end today that were impressive plays,” Dorrell said. “He was in the right position where it forced the quarterback to make an errant throw. I think Ray has found a home playing safety. There’s no question in my mind he’s a lot more energetic, he’s into it. We feel like he’s going to give us some really valuable depth playing safety for us, and he does all those things on special teams for us.”

CB Tyrin Taylor — The 6-foot-2, 180-pound true freshman is already showing a knack for being around the ball and will add depth on the outside for the Buffs. While he just enrolled this spring, he seems to have adapted quickly to the defense and had a nice break on a ball against the No. 1 defense in Friday’s team work.

“He has done some nice positive things,” Dorrell said. “That depth is really going to help us on the defensive side.”

RB Ashaad Clayton — After showing some flashes last fall, the freshman seems to be more consistent in this spring.

“He’s working really hard,” Dorrell said. “He’s made some really positive steps from what he did in the fall. He’s more comfortable understanding our system and being more proficient at it. I’m very encouraged where he’s at. He’s one of those kids who’s had some really bright moments and we’re hoping he continues that progress in making some of those plays and more efficient plays as we continue to move through spring.”

… Read full scrimmage report here …

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April 11th

Jayle Stacks trying to get into the mix at running back – Dorrell: “Pleasantly surprised”

From the Daily Camera … Between the proven production of Jarek Broussard and Alex Fontenot and the hype surrounding Ashaad Clayton, Jayle Stacks hasn’t received a lot of attention since joining the Colorado Buffaloes last year.

The freshman running back is making his mark this spring, however, and on Friday had a couple of powerful, tackle-breaking runs in the Buffaloes’ first scrimmage of spring.

“That’s what we’ve seen right there,” CU head coach Karl Dorrell said of Stacks’ running style. “What you saw today is what he’s been doing the last two, three, or four practices since we’ve been in pads. He’s a load to bring down, and he’s one of those backs who is a bigger back and he’s kind of a utility player for us. He catches the ball well out of the backfield. … He does a number of things for us.”

The 5-foot-11, 230-pound Stacks is CU’s biggest running back and came to CU after a stellar career at Cherry Creek High School. With the Bruins, he was a four-time all-conference performer, rushing for 2,997 yards and 39 touchdowns during his career. He also turned seven of his 22 career catches into touchdowns.

“We’ve been, I would say, pleasantly surprised with Jayle,” Dorrell said. “He seems like he’s got a comfort level in what we’re doing offensively. He’s a lot more comfortable doing a lot of different roles that we’re asking him to play, and it was good to see him having a few carries where he was actually carrying some people, running down the field. Very, very happy with his progress.”

… Continue reading story here …

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April 10th

Freshman QB Drew Carter “progressing”, but “not quite ready to trigger in a scrimmage yet”

From CUSportsNation.com … Friday’s scrimmage had an emphasis on the red zone, with interchanging units on both offense and defense facing off in controlled sequences from the 25-yard line.

The third quarterback to enter the fray Friday was freshman walk-on Grant Ciccarone, who ironically enough, threw the scrimmage’s only touchdown pass, which was caught in the right corner of the endzone by fellow walk-on Michael Harrison from about 18 yards out.

Notably missing from the action was freshman Drew Carter, the lone quarterback Colorado took from the high school level in its 2021 recruiting class.

… Ciccarone getting some action at quarterback while Carter watched from the sidelines may well equate to Colorado’s freshman signal caller getting a slice of humble pie.

“Drew is progressing,” Karl Dorrell said. “He’s not quite ready to trigger in a scrimmage yet. I would say he’s still learning and digesting a lot of information.”

… At the end of the day, Carter is a newcomer to the program. Him not being 100% ready to run the show of the offense during the first scrimmage of spring shouldn’t be seen as indicative of him struggling.

“If you can imagine how ‘B-Lew’ would have been last year when I got the job, if we’d had a spring practice, he would have been swimming, just figuring out what we were doing offensively,” Dorrell said. “That’s what Drew feels, where he just stepped on campus a few months ago and he’s learning the system.”

… Read full story here …

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**Video: Watch a few plays from Friday’s scrimmage**

From YouTube, courtesy CUSportsNation …

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April 9th

**Video: Karl Dorrell – Post-Scrimmage talk with media**

From the Daily Camera … Colorado head coach Karl Dorrell would love to see his offense lighting up the scoreboard next fall, but he has no problem watching the defense get the upper hand at this time.

“I’m actually more encouraged that our defense is ahead of our offense,” Dorrell said Friday after the Buffaloes’ sixth practice of spring drills.

Near the end of the Buffs’ practice at Franklin Field, they held a short, 25-play scrimmage, with an emphasis on red zone situations. During that time, it was clear that the defense won the day.

“I feel like defense is making some really positive strides and coming together and getting better at challenging the offense on every single snap,” Dorrell said. “Offensively we weren’t at our best today, but I think there’s a lot of stuff that we need to continue to fix and work on.”

Outside linebackers Carson Wells and Devin Grant both recorded sacks; Na’im Rodman and other defensive lineman made tackles at the line of scrimmage, and safety Ray Robinson had an interception on a tipped pass to highlight the effort of the defense. The group also had a goal-line stand to force a field goal.

“I thought we came with a lot of energy,” junior inside linebacker Jonathan Van Diest said. “It’s definitely a first scrimmage, but I think our defense is showing a lot of signs of leadership and guys wanting to play. It’s a testament to (defensive coordinator Chris) Wilson and his defense and the scheme we have.

“It’s something that we’ve been able to grasp really well, which helps me play fast. Everyone in the inside linebacker room I can say, as well as just for the whole defense in general, there’s more trust and so we’re able to play downhill, or attacking.”

… Continue reading story here …

From YouTube, courtesy BuffStampede.com …

Linebacker Jonathan Van Diest … 

Tight end Matt Lynch … 

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List of players inactive for first spring scrimmage

Some of the names, like Nate Landman, Sam Noyer, and Chance Lytle (recovering from off-season surgeries, and are out for all of the spring) are not a surprise. The number of healthy offensive linemen (down to nine) could limit how much of a scrimmage that the Buffs can conduct this afternoon …

Chris Miller (S)
Guy Thomas (OLB)
Sam Noyer (QB)
Jaylon Jackson (WR)
Deion Smith (RB)
Mister Williams (ILB)
Nate Landman (ILB)
Terrance Lang (DL)
Austin Johnson (OL)
Casey Roddick (OL)
Nikko Pohahau (OL)
Chance Lytle (OL)

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Defensive lineman Janaz Jordan: “He’s got a really high ceiling”

From the Daily Camera … Although he’s been at the University of Colorado for two years and is already going into his third season with the football team, Janaz Jordan has not been in the spotlight.

He has been a valuable piece to the puzzle on the Buffaloes’ defensive line, however.

A former junior college transfer, Jordan earned his way into the starting lineup last season and doesn’t appear to be slowing down as the Buffs have gone through the first five practices of spring.

“Janaz has been a pleasant surprise from a year ago,” CU defensive coordinator Chris Wilson said this week. “He’s got a lot of growth in him. He’s got a really high ceiling.”

Listed at 6-foot-4, 305 pounds, Jordan took over as the starting nose tackle for the last four games of the abbreviated 2020 season, finishing with 11 tackles. He had 12 tackles in a reserve role in 2019.

Jordan came to CU after playing his freshman year at Hinds (Miss.) Community College. Although he was recruited by the previous coaching staff, Jordan fits well in Wilson’s system.

“There’s been a lot of D-line coaches here in the last few years and what we’re doing now is we’ve got a system and we’ve got a guy (Jordan) who actually believes in what we’re doing right now,” Wilson said. “What I mean by that is we’ll tailor everything towards our players, so we’re asking these guys to do things that they can do. It’s not about the system. It’s really about the personnel, so he fits our personnel. He’s big, he’s strong, he’s athletic, and we’ve just got to keep working on this conditioning.”

… Continue reading story here …

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April 8th

Maurice Bell trying to find his way onto the field: “Returning kicks is definitely fun”

From the Daily Camera … When Maurice Bell looks back at the 2020 season, he can’t help but think about missed opportunities on kickoff returns.

“I should have had three (touchdowns) last year,” said Bell, a junior receiver with the Colorado Buffaloes. “This year we’re gonna have to go for at least five. I’ve got some making up to do.”

Now one of the veterans in the receiver room, Bell is looking for big things next season, on offense and in special teams.

Last season, the 6-foot, 180-pound Bell earned the most extensive playing time of his career and, including the Valero Alamo Bowl, caught 10 passes for 115 yards and a touchdown, while also gaining 151 yards on seven kickoff returns.

… “Maurice has worked really hard this offseason,” Chiaverini said. “He’s worked hard in the weight room, he’s worked hard obviously in the offseason conditioning program. I’m excited to see him take the next step this year.”

… “Personally to make a big step, something I really would like to work on is just being consistent and being dominant every single day,” Bell said. “Being a player that’s just reliable, that every day you’re on the field, you’re reliable to be consistent. That’s really where my big jump, I feel like, will come in.

“With the role that (Chiaverini) has me wanting to make this big jump, I’m definitely ready for it and more than excited to jump into it.”

Part of Bell’s jump could come on special teams, too. He was the Buffs’ primary kick returner in 2020 and nearly broke loose, but he said, “I was getting ankle tackled and that’s not OK.”

Whether it’s as a receiver or returner, Bell is eager to play a bigger role.

“I love just having the ball in my hands in general, honestly,” he said. “Returning kicks is definitely fun, especially with all the open space and opportunities you have back there.”

… Continue reading story here …

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April 7th

**Post-practice video – OC Darrin Chiaverini; DC Chris Wilson; WR Maurice Bell**

From YouTube, courtesy of BuffStampede.com …

Offensive coordinator Darrin Chiaverini … 

Defensive coordinator Chris Wilson … 

Wide receiver Maurice Bell … 

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Nate Landman: “The rehab is going a lot better than I thought … I’m actually ahead of schedule”

From the Daily Camera … Colorado’s Nate Landman is encouraged by his progress this spring and aiming for a return to football this fall.

On Tuesday night, Landman took part in a CU-sponsored virtual event, “Discovering Dorrell.” During the event, host Mark Johnson interviewed head coach Karl Dorrell, while a set of former football players spoke with current players.

Landman was interviewed by Matt Russell, who won the Butkus Award as an inside linebacker with the Buffs in 1996. During the interview, Landman provided an update on his injury recovery from rupturing his Achilles’ tendon on Dec. 12 against Utah.

“The rehab is going a lot better than I thought,” said Landman, who was a semifinalist for the Butkus Award last season and is not participating in CU’s spring practices this month. “I’m actually ahead of schedule. I’ve been running for the past two weeks on the underwater treadmill and after this week, they’ll move me to the (AlterG treadmill), which is just modified bodyweight running. So, I would say about two, three (weeks), maybe even a month ahead of schedule on that term.”

The Buffs are hopeful that Landman will be ready to go when preseason camp begins in August.

“Nate’s in great shape, he looks great,” Dorrell said to Johnson. “He’s got a great mindset about where he’s going, he feels good about where the rehab situation is for him. … He’s going to be ready to go for sure by the fall before we start training camp.”

… Continue reading story here …

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April 6th

Dorrell on Brendon Lewis: “He looks very, very confident; very, very poised in the pocket”

From CUBuffs.com … Freshman quarterback Brendon Lewis, who didn’t play last year until the Alamo Bowl, is having an excellent camp thus far.

“He’s graduated from that developmental stage,” Dorrell said. “You remember seeing him in the Texas game and how well he played there. We all were excited about the type of production he was able to do. He’s even better than that.”

In his Alamo Bowl debut, Lewis guided the Buffs to three touchdowns. He completed 6-of-10 pases for 95 yards and rushed nine times for 73 yards and a score.

This spring he’s getting regular snaps with the No. 1 offense, as last year’s starter, Sam Noyer, is out following shoulder surgery.

“He has a better understanding of the concepts of the offense,” Dorrell said. “There’s no panic in his game anymore with the movements and things we’ve asked him to do. He’s reading through progressions really well. He looks very, very confident, very poised in the pocket. He’s made a couple big jumps of improvement and growth since the fall. He’s a lot more comfortable with our system. The familiarity is obviously very helpful.”

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April 5th

**Video: Karl Dorrell’s post-practice talk with media**

From YouTube, courtesy of CUSportsNation …

Freshman defensive back Christian Gonzalez 

Offensive lineman Colby Pursell … 

Footage from practice … 

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At outside linebacker, “potential” is the operative word

From the Daily Camera … Last week, Colorado head football coach Karl Dorrell said the Buffaloes’ revamped defense could give the outside linebackers an opportunity to “pin your ears back and go.”

A smile came across the face of Carson Wells when he was asked about that comment.

“It definitely opens it up for us to make more plays,” said Wells, a junior outside linebacker. “We’ve just got to have that dog mindset in our play every play. This defense is really designed for us to make plays. I don’t want to get into it too much but it’s designed for us to make plays and we’ve just got to go out there and execute.”

Wells is coming off a dominant 2020 season in which he led the country with 2.67 tackles for loss per game. Despite playing just six games, he tied for third nationally with 16 total TFLs. Nationally, he was one of only 15 players with at least 14 TFLs, and the others each played at least nine games.

A 6-foot-4, 250-pound fourth-year junior, Wells is the unquestioned leader of the outside linebacker crew, but it’s a group with intriguing possibilities.

“It is a position that we feel confident that we can be very productive and mainly because of what Carson is able to do with his experience,” Dorrell said. “We know that he’s going to generate some plays on his side of it.”

The Buffs, who held their fourth practice of spring on Monday, are trying to find others who can produce at outside linebacker, as well.

… Continue reading story here …

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April 3rd 

Transfer linebacker Robert Barnes making an impression: “You can feel his presence on the field”

From CUBuffs.com … Dorrell also mentioned a handful of players who have performed well after three practices, including new linebacker Robert Barnes. The 6-foot-2, 230-pound graduate transfer from Oklahoma has been playing inside linebacker, but has the versatility to fit into CU’s scheme in several places.

“You can feel his presence on the field,” Dorrell said. “He’s a veteran player, had a lot of experience. You can see how he carries himself, how he can diagnose plays, how he tracks the football and how he fits on runners. You can tell he’s been around the block, so to speak. I think he’s going to be a really good piece for us. When Nate (Landman) gets back, there will be a couple guys like him that I think will really help engineer this defense to be a really good defense in the fall.”

Other defenders Dorrell mentioned included inside linebackers Alvin Williams (who made the move from outside), inside linebacker Quinn Perry, outside linebackers Joshka Gustav and Carson Wells, and safety Mark Perry.

Williams, Dorrell said, has “made his presence known” while Quinn Perry has “done some positive things.”

At safety, Mark Perry’s improvement could be key for a CU defense at a position that needs to replace a graduated starter as well as develop depth. Perry is also running sprints for the CU track team this spring.

“He made a few plays today that I didn’t see him make routinely last year,” Dorrell said.

Dorrell said Gustav, who saw some quality snaps down the stretch last season, is “carrying that to the next level for his development. Carson, same thing.”

On offense, Dorrell said some of the early standouts are the “usual suspects” — running backs Jarek Broussard and Alex Fontenot and wide receivers La’Vontae Shenault and Dimitri Stanley.

… Read full story here …

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April 2nd

Defense getting the best of it after first week of practices: “They like our scheme. It’s more player friendly”

From the Daily Camera … It’s still early in spring practices, and the first game is still five months away, but Colorado head football coach Karl Dorrell is already impressed with the Buffaloes’ defense.

On Friday, the Buffs held their third practice of spring — their first in pads — and the defense made its mark.

“I think the defense got after (the offense) just a little bit more than what the offense did against the defense,” Dorrell said. “That’s usually a positive sign, particularly in spring practice. Your defense is usually ahead of the offense.”

That’s certainly understandable this year, as the Buffs are inexperienced at quarterback.

On defense, meanwhile, CU is introducing a new scheme, with new terminology, yet the group is off to a good start.

“They like our scheme,” Dorrell said. “It’s more player-friendly. We’re not having as many checks. Once you guys get a chance to watch the scrimmage … you’ll notice that even in practice, you’re seeing so much more communication, where they’re confident with the calls that they’re making. That’s something that I think last year, it was gray. You’re seeing a lot of assertive calling and adjustments on the defensive side. Guys stepping up, great verbal communication, and guys are lining up and doing pretty well. So I think defensively it was a really positive step forward for a new scheme.”

… Continue reading story here …

From BuffStampede.com … Video of Karl Dorrell’s post-practice talk with media …

Video from Friday’s practice

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April 1st

Freshman quarterback Brendon Lewis is “playing really well right now, very confident”

From the Daily Camera … A 55-23 loss to Texas in the Valero Alamo Bowl on Dec. 29 didn’t produce many highlights for the Colorado football team.

Head coach Karl Dorrell was upset and disappointed during his postgame press conference but recognized one potential positive: the debut of true freshman quarterback Brendon Lewis.

“To be honest, he probably was the bright note of tonight,” Dorrell said at the time. “Hopefully that will be something that’s good for him to carry into the off-season and keep building on going into spring practice.”

CU opened spring practice on Monday – exactly three months after the loss to Texas – and Lewis’ confidence is still there. After both practices so far this week, Dorrell has said Lewis looks different than he did last season.

“He’s playing really well right now, very confident,” Dorrell said Wednesday. “He looks like a completely different player than what we saw prior to that experience in the Alamo Bowl, so he’s really doing well.”

… Continue reading story here …

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March 31st 

Practice No. 2 

Broussard brace-free – “I feel a lot faster”; Buffs down to ten offensive lineman – “Just enough for a two-deep, but it’s a good two-deep”

… Related … “Confident Jarek Broussard sheds knee brace” … from BuffStampede.com

… Related … Link to B-Roll video of Practice No. 2 …

**Video – Karl Dorrell after Practice No. 2 – courtesy of BuffStampede.com**

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From CUSportsNation … After rushing for 813 yards in just five regular season games last fall, a performance that earned him Pac-12 Offensive Player of the Year honors, suffice to say that Jarek Broussard more than proved himself healed following his recovery from the second ACL tear of his football career.

Eventually, Broussard was going to take the brace off, but per Dorrell, he did so almost immediately after Colorado’s loss in the Alamo Bowl.

Through the Buffs’ winter workouts until now, two days into CU’s 15 spring practices, Broussard has been without the knee brace.

“Ever since we started offseason (workouts) he hasn’t worn it,” Dorrell said. “He’s got rid of the Linus blanket and I haven’t seen it since the season. He’s been training this whole offseason without it. He looks fabulous, he looks faster — which is what we all anticipated he would be without a brace — he looks good. He shed it after the Texas game and I haven’t seen it since.”

One torn ACL is grueling enough in terms of the injury and recovery that follows but suffering multiple ACL injuries adds a new dimension to it all.

That’s the reality Broussard faced, as he tore his ACL for the first time during his senior year at Bishop Lynch High School in the Dallas/Ft. Worth suburbs, and again in September of 2019, ending his redshirt freshman year at CU after a promising performance during that spring.

“The confidence is already there — I was never really worried about the brace, but just going throughout the winter workout period, I did it all without my brace on,” he said. “I feel like my cuts are pretty fluid, I feel faster, so the confidence I feel like is going to get better.”

As last season ended and winter workouts began, Broussard took time to dissect what he did on the gridiron through Colorado’s six-game season.

Now, he can compare how a few days of organized practices have gone for him without the brace on.

“Looking at film from last year, I noticed the brace restricted me in a lot of things,” he said. “This spring, I’m going without the brace to how to see how different (it is). I feel a lot better, I feel a lot faster, so right now, it’s going good.”

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Karl Dorrell did not mince words when detailing the personnel situation Colorado is facing this spring at offensive line: it’s a bit tight.

“We’re not real deep at the offensive line in terms of practice players right now because guys are recovering from postseason surgeries,” Dorrell said. “We’re not as deep as we normally would be…we have some guys that are coming in in the summer, that are going to add some depth as we go, but it’s one of those positions that aren’t as deep right now due to guys recovering to surgery.”

Dorrell indicated that walk-ons Jack Seavall (Fr.) and John Dietchmann (So.) have been seeing extra snaps and playing time in an attempt to plug some of those holes, but overall, 10 scholarship offensive linemen are available and healthy enough to practice.

Those players are: Gerad Christian-Lichtenhan (Fr.), Frank Fillip (So.), Austin Johnson (Fr.) Josh Jynes (So.), Kary Kutsch (Sr.), Carson Lee (Fr.), Colby Pursell (Jr.), Kanan Ray (So.), Valentin Senn (Fr.) and Jake Wiley (Fr.).

Junior Chance Lytle, who was lost last fall at Arizona to a serious leg injury, is making good progress with his recovery but won’t be available this spring.

“Chance Lytle is out of the boot,” Dorrell said. “He was in a boot for a considerable amount of time until this week. I saw him lifting in the weight room and doing squats yesterday, so he’s gradually getting himself back into playing shape but he’s still a ways away. It’ll be sometime this summer before he’s back in full.”

Sophomore Casey Roddick is also out this spring with an undisclosed medical condition but Dorrell said he expects him back “in a short period of time.”

Finally, freshman Nikko Pohahau is a non-participant this spring due to offseason shoulder surgery.

While the injuries have certainly thinned things out for Dorrell as he navigates his first spring, there is also the matter of replacing second-team All-Pac-12 left tackle Will Sherman, who recently declared for the NFL Draft.

Dorrell has opted to move Fillip, who started every game at right tackle last year, over to the left.

“He is practicing at the left tackle position right now and doing really well,” Dorrell said. “He’s excited about it and loves the challenge and what that brings. I think he’s very confident about the year he had last year in 2020 and carrying it over to doing better things in 2021. He’s excited.”

“We really right now have 10 healthy players to give us a two-deep at o-lineman in terms of a one line and a two line.,” Dorrell said. “We have just enough to get through practice right now with a two-deep, but it’s a good two-deep.”

… Continue reading story here …

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Sam Noyer not practicing, but leading; transfer linebacker Robert Barnes impressing

From the Daily Camera … Senior quarterback Sam Noyer, who started all six games last season, isn’t participating in spring practices because he’s recovering from shoulder surgery. His presence is certainly felt, however.

“You can tell Sam’s around because you hear him,” Dorrell said. “He’s showing his leadership qualities. He’s running, he’s doing everything from a conditioning standpoint. … He’s doing all of that stuff but obviously he’s not ready to throw a football yet.”

With Noyer out, returning freshman Brendon Lewis, true freshman Drew Carter and junior J.T. Shrout, a transfer from Tennessee, are competing.

“(Noyer) has being very encouraging for the quarterbacks and all the offensive players,” Dorrell said. “Sam is such, I think, a really positive influence on a lot of our players. He loves this team, being around the team and encouraging them to keep getting better and keep performing.”

… Robert Barnes, a graduate transfer from Oklahoma, is already making a good impression on the Buffs.

“He’s shown great leadership qualities since he’s been here,” Dorrell said. “He’s been great in our offseason workouts and getting to know his new teammates and voices some opinions and some things about how to do things . I’ve been very pleased with what he’s done for us since he’s been here.”

The 6-foot-2, 230-pound Barnes was a safety at Oklahoma, but transitioned to linebacker last season. He had 77 tackles and two interceptions in 27 games with the Sooners.

At CU, Barnes is listed as inside linebacker, but could also play safety or Star.

“We know that he’s a pretty versatile player,” Dorrell said. “We’re trying to get a lot of looks for a lot of different guys and make a good assessment at the linebacker positions about, OK, what is the best combination, who are the best three or four guys we think that we can utilize and help us in terms of the core of that group?

“We feel that (Barnes) is going to give us flexibility to plug and play maybe the top three players and he might be one of those three, but he has versatility to be in a number of those positions.”

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March 29th 

… CU in a few minutes … 

List of players (in addition to Sam Noyer and Nate Landman) who will be out this spring

From the Daily Camera … Offensive lineman Chance Lytle, who injured his leg against Arizona on Dec. 5th, is still in a walking boot and won’t participate in spring. Dorrell also said that defensive lineman Terrance Lang, Star/safety Chris Miller and outside linebacker Guy Thomas have had shoulder surgeries and won’t participate. Offensive lineman Austin Johnson, who missed the 2020 season with an Achilles’ tear, will also be out after recently having a bone spur removed from his other heel.

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March 28th

… CU in a few minutes … 

Roster Review: CU has 20 starters returning

… Or … If you read Athlon’s Pac-12 Spring Power Rankings, CU only has 12 returning starters (6 on offense; 6 on defense) …

Colorado has 73 lettermen returning for the 2021 season (65 from the 2020 team, five from 2019 and one from 2017); they break down into 31 on offense, 32 on defense and five specialists; the Buffs lose 12 lettermen off the 2020 squad (4 offense/6 defense/2 specialists). CU will return 20 starters from 2020 (12 offense—three players started three games each at two receiver and an offensive line positions/8 defense), losing five (2 offense/3 defense); the starter count was based off 14 players with three plus-starts on the offensive side of the ball. The 2020 starters are listed in bold (three or more starts); *—denotes letters earned primarily on special teams; QIS—quit in season. The breakdown:

OFFENSE
Position Returning (37) Lost (4)
WR La’Vontae Shenault, Daniel Arias, Brendan Rice,
WR Maurice Bell, Montana Lemonious-Craig, Jake Groth                       Lost: K.D. Nixon
WR Dimitri Stanley, Jaylon Jackson, Chris Carpenter, Alex Smith
LT *Jake Wiley                                                                                                    Lost: Will Sherman
LG Kary Kutsch, Kanan Ray, Austin Johnson (from 2019)
C Colby Pursell, Josh Jynes
RG Casey Roddick, Chance Lytle, *Carson Lee
RT Frank Fillip, Valentin Senn
TE Brady Russell, C.J. Schmanski, Matt Lynch, Nico Magri, Nick Fisher, *Alec Pell,*Luke Stillwell (from 2019), Jared Poplawski (from 2017)
QB Sam Noyer, Brendon Lewis                                                                   Lost: Tyler Lytle (QIS)
TB Jarek Broussard, Ashaad Clayton, Joe Davis, Jayle Stacks          Lost: Jaren Mangham
Alex Fontenot (from 2019), Deion Smith (from 2019)

DEFENSE
Position Returning (31) Lost (6)
OLB Carson Wells, Joshka Gustav, *Devin Grant
DE Terrance Lang, Justin Jackson
NT Jalen Sami, Janaz Jordan, Austin Williams, Lloyd Murray, Jr.
DE/DT Na’im Rodman, Jeremiah Doss                                                        Lost: Mustafa Johnson
ILB Nate Landman, Quinn Perry, *Marvin Ham                                   Lost: Devin Lynch
ILB Jonathan Van Diest, *Mister Williams, *Alvin Williams                   Lost: Akil Jones, *Chase Newman (from 2019)
OLB Guy Thomas, Jamar Montgomery
CB Christian Gonzalez, Nigel Bethel
SS Isaiah Lewis, Chris Miller, Mark Perry, *Ray Robinson, Curtis Appleton     Lost: K.J. Trujillo
FS Toren Pittman, *Anthony Lyle,                                                                 Lost: Derrion Rakestraw
CB Mekhi Blackmon, Tarik Luckett, *Jaylen Striker

SPECIALISTS
Position Returning (5) Lost (2)
P Josh Watts
PK Evan Price (PK/KO), Mac Willis (KO), Tyler Francis (PK; from 2019)       Lost: James Stefanou (PK)
SN Derek Bedell Travis Drosos

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Spring schedule: Practices from 4:00-6:00; Spring game at 9:00 a.m. on April 30th

Schools are allowed 15 practices over 34 days per NCAA rules (not including spring break); sessions break down as follows, tentatively listed below on the column on the right: three in shorts (no contact), four in pads (no tackling, or pads-NT below), five in pads (tackling allowed 50 percent or less of the time), three in pads (tackling allowed throughout, as in extended scrimmages). The primary location at this time will be the practice field south of the Indoor Practice Facility (where sessions will be during inclement weather).

Calendar (dates, times approximate and subject to change; confirm daily with the CU Sports Information Office)

MARCH 29— Practice # 1 (2:15 p.m. meetings, 4:00-6:00 p.m. practice) shorts/helmets
MARCH 31— Practice # 2 (2:15 p.m. meetings, 4:00-6:00 p.m. practice) shorts/helmets
APRIL 2— Practice # 3 (2:15 p.m. meetings, 4:00-6:00 p.m. practice) pads-NT (uppers)
APRIL 5— Practice # 4 (2:15 p.m. meetings, 4:00-6:00 p.m. practice) pads-NT (uppers)
APRIL 7— Practice # 5 (2:15 p.m. meetings, 4:00-6:00 p.m. practice) full pads
APRIL 9— Practice # 6 (2:15 p.m. meetings, 4:00 p.m. approx. scrimmage) full pads
APRIL 12— Practice # 7 (2:15 p.m. meetings, 4:00-6:00 p.m. practice) pads-NT (uppers)
APRIL 14— Practice # 8 (2:15 p.m. meetings, 4:00-6:00 p.m. practice) full pads
APRIL 16— Practice # 9 (2:15 p.m. meetings, 4:00 p.m. approx. scrimmage) full pads
APRIL 19— Practice #10 (2:15 p.m. meetings, 4:00-6:00 p.m. practice) pads-NT (uppers)
APRIL 21— Practice #11 (2:15 p.m. meetings, 4:00-6:00 p.m. practice) full pads
APRIL 23— Practice #12 (2:15 p.m. meetings, 4:00 p.m. approx. scrimmage) full pads
APRIL 26— Practice #13 (2:15 p.m. meetings, 4:00-6:00 p.m. practice) pads-NT (uppers)
APRIL 28— Practice #14 (2:15 p.m. meetings, 4:00-6:00 p.m. practice) full pads
APRIL 30— SPRING SHOWCASE/SCRIMMAGE (Practice #15; 9:00 a.m. Folsom Field / Pac 12 Network) full pads
TBA — ANNUAL COACHES CLINIC
(NO SPRING BREAK at the university of Colorado this year.)

 PRACTICES: All continued to be closed per mandate by county health officials; thus, no on-site media availability until further notice due to COVID19 precautions (access for the spring showcase/scrimmage should be similar to last fall’s press box seating and photography/videography. Both will still likely be limited at this time).

 SCRIMMAGES: The first scrimmage (April 9) and possibly the second (April 16) will be open to a limited number of media (press box) and a limited number of photographers (in the stands, no field access due to COVID restrictions). All media are required to wear masks and physically distance in the press box. Parking will be available in the Folsom Street Garage (register your plate with sports information if not already in the system).

 INTERVIEWS (Camp): All interviews will continue to be conducted via Zoom, video streaming or by phone. The window for interviews on the days listed above will be following practice at approximately 6:05 p.m., but could fluctuate depending on how long the coaches address the players afterward. Head coach Karl Dorrell is planning to be available after each practice, with assorted assistant coaches upon request; two players will be made available. Please submit requests for players and assistant coaches by 2 p.m. the day of practice and we will do our best to accommodate, but with the constraints we are under, all may not be possible at this time.

Note: Per standard policy, newcomers on the 2021 roster will not be available for outside interviews until fall camp; summer newcomers until after the first game (but exceptions may be possible with the head coach’s permission).

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Staff Changes … 

Four changes on the full-time coaching staff: Chris Wilson was named defensive coordinator after Tyson Summers was not retained (Wilson will continue to coach the defensive line); Brett Maxie added defensive passing game coordinator to his duties as safeties coach; Mark Smith was named inside linebackers coach (the position Summers coached); and Bryan Cook was promoted from quality control/defense to tight ends coach, replacing Taylor Embree (who took a position with the New York Jets). In addition, Shannon Turley replaced Drew Wilson as strength andconditioning coach (Wilson’s contract was not renewed).

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This post, about the Spring Practices game, from the 2021 Season, is filed under Article.
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