—
Fall Camp Notes
—
August 27th
Schedule: Practice #25 (9:00-10:25 a.m.)
First practice on the newly sod Franklin Field
—
Coach MacIntyre post-practice talk with media after Saturday morning’s practice
YouTube video courtesy of CUSportsNation.com:
—–
August 26th
Schedule: Practice #24 (6:00-8:15 p.m.) (no player interviews, coaches only)
Darrin Chiaverini tweet of the day: Quoting Bum Phillips: “The only discipline that lasts is self-discipline”
Wide receiver corps moving on after the loss of Juwann Winfree
From CUBuffs.com … As impressive as the highly skilled Winfree had been through the first dozen days of camp, Chiaverini was seeing him pushed by a Buffs returnee whose potential often raised eyebrows but had encountered problems consistently raising his level of play.
At 6-2, 195 Bryce Bobo has a frame similar to Winfree’s (6-3, 205) and a skill set that Chiaverini believes can be pretty close, too. Of course, he would love to have both players at the X spot in his receiver rotation.
But what he says wasn’t widely known before Winfree’s injury was that Bobo, a junior who has made 47 receptions over the past two seasons (422 yards, three TDs), was close to matching Winfree’s camp productivity.
“Even when (Winfree) was healthy, Bobo had been practicing well and had shown up in scrimmages,” said Chiaverini, who arrived in Boulder last winter after two seasons at Texas Tech. “(Bobo) was having a good camp; it was kind of like with him and Juwann being 1A and 1B.
“I thought they both were really good players. I felt good about having two real good players over there. Now Bobo has taken the lead on it and we’ve got to find that No. 2.”
Chiaverini said the top contenders for the backup X spot are freshman Johnny Huntley III and junior college transfer Kabion Ento, who is playing both the X and Z spots. Both are bigger wideouts, each standing 6-3, but Ento (180) has the benefit of a spring’s worth of practice while Huntley (210) is a summer arrival.
… Continue reading story here (including a look at Tony Julmisse, who continues to practice with both the offense and defense) …
—–
August 25th
Schedule: Practice #23 (7:30-9:00 p.m.) (no interviews due to late ending time)
Darrin Chiaverini tweet: “Greatness is only achieved through relentless pursuit and perseverance! Attack everyday with passion and purpose!”
Getting to Know three CU Freshmen: Akil Jones, Beau Bisharat, Ronnie Blackmon
A nice article by Cydney Tanner, Student SID at CUBuffs.com …
The full article can be read here. The intros …
BEAU BISHARAT, Tailback, Sacramento, Calif.
Halfway through his first collegiate football camp, Colorado freshman Beau Bisharat was definitely noticeable: at 6-foot-2, 215-pound pounds, the Sacramento, Calif., native is by far the tallest tailback on CU’s depth chart and was one of CU’s more highly publicized recruits when he signed last February …
—
RONNIE BLACKMON, Defensive back, Atlanta, Ga.
Five years after entering the Pac-12 Conference, Colorado’s recruiting arm has begun extending south. Although the Buffs’ roster already included a few members from south of the Mason-Dixon Line, the 2016 freshman class included six members from southern high schools including Atlanta, Ga.’s Ronnie Blackmon …
—
AKIL JONES, Linebacker, San Jose, Calif.
During his senior year at Valley Christian High School, after a single-game performance that produced nine solo tackles (seven for a loss) and 3.5 sacks, linebacker Akil Jones was named the San Francisco 49ers high school player of the week …
… Continue reading story here …
—
Improved run defense should also help lead to more sacks
From CUBuffs.com … One year ago, the Colorado defense made a modest improvement in its quarterback sack totals, finishing with 27 for the season — five more than the previous year.
But in the pass-happy Pac-12, that’s by no means good enough. The Buffs were still just 10th in the conference in sacks a year ago, trailing the top four teams in the league — Arizona State, Oregon, USC and Utah — by double digits. Colorado also had just one player — Jimmie Gilbert with six sacks — in the top 14 in the league.
… But equally important, CU’s run defense should be significantly better, which means the Buffs should be able to force teams into more passing situations — and thus have more opportunities to get to the passer.
A year ago, the Buffs were 10th in the Pac-12 in rush defense, yielding nearly 200 yards per game and 5.0 yards per carry. If Colorado can reduce those numbers this year, it will mean more opportunities to turn their outside pass rush loose.
“Last year, our run defense just wasn’t very good,” Leavitt said recently. “We’ve got to get better there this year. We’ve got to be able to stop some people and do it consistently. For us to make a real big move this year, we’ve got to be better against the run. We’ve got to shore that up.”
… Continue reading story here …
—–
August 24th
Schedule – Practice #22 (9:00-10:45 a.m. )(all available for interviews after)
Darrin Chiaverini tweet: “Everyday is a great day to be a Buffalo! Let’s get it! #Rise #CUin17 #GoBuffs”
Coach MacIntyre talk with media post-practice (Wednesday)
YouTube video courtesy of CUSportsNation:
—
Practice Notes … From CUBuffs.com … Seven NFL scouts were on hand at Wednesday morning’s practice. There have been more scouts on a regular basis at CU practices this year, a clear sign that the talent level is improving. … The Buffs are scheduled to practice in the evening on Thursday and Friday (weather permitting). “We just want to get out and catch balls under the lights, special teams, things like that,” MacIntyre said. The Buffs open the season under the lights with a 6 p.m. game Sept. 2 vs. Colorado State in Denver. …
With just seven practices remaining until the opener, there’s no doubt that coaches, players and staff are all aware of how close the opener actually is. Tiny mistakes or miscues that might have gone unmentioned in the first few days of camp are no longer being tolerated, and coaches and players are pushing each other to attend to even the smallest of details. Players appear to be buying into the increased focus and there’s no doubt a heightened awareness exists in everything from individual to team drills.
—
Jim Leavitt: “But this team competes now . . . who knows how we’ll do, but they play hard”
From CUBuffs.com … The Colorado Buffaloes have changed defensive schemes. As for the schemer . . . not the slightest shift.
Jim Leavitt is entering his second season as CU’s defensive coordinator/linebackers coach. What he brought to Boulder on day one is what he’ll bring on his final day. His off-the-charts energy all but engulfed his players when he arrived two winters ago.
That level hasn’t dipped.
“He’s still full of energy all the time, full of fire,” outside linebacker Derek McCartney said. “When you play for a guy like that, you want to play. You come out ready to play all the time.”
Added inside linebacker Rick Gamboa: “He’s been the same from day one – excited to come out here, has a lot of passion for the game and inspires us to get better and work hard. He brings energy and makes us want to be energetic out here.”
Leavitt’s first season saw the Buffs in a 4-3 base defense (four down linemen, three linebackers), mainly because it was less disruptive to mostly remain in that scheme for his first year. Also, Leavitt didn’t yet have eyes-on, first-hand knowledge of his players’ capabilities.
In year two, he does, and he’s now based the Buffs in a 3-4 defense (three down linemen, four linebackers) that he says is a better fit for his coaching strategy as well as his personnel.
“We’re doing different things than last year (because) I know our people and know what we can do,” Leavitt said, adding that the 3-4 is “very different” for his linebackers.
… Continue reading story here …
—–
August 23rd
Schedule – Practice #21 (8:45-10:15 a.m.) (coaches, defensive players only for interviews; offensive players go right to weight lifting)
Jim Leavitt tweet of the day: “We’ve had a couple good days of practice. Always looking to get better, pushing the players and leaders on this team! Keep seniors on edge!”
Mike MacIntyre’s post-practice comments to media
YouTube video courtesy of CUSportsNation:
—
Cornerback Ahkello Witherspoon looking for exceptional senior season
From CUBuffs.com … While a long list of Colorado players have improved their game thus far in camp, a few have taken significant, head-turning “Did you see that?” steps forward.
Count senior cornerback Ahkello Witherspoon among the latter group. Witherspoon’s third camp with the Buffs has been by far his most consistent, one in which he has made plays day after day after day. He’s had several interceptions — including one in an open scrimmage at Folsom Field — and he’s made pass breakups a regular part of his daily regimen.
It’s a development that has put a smile on his coaches’ faces.
“He has all the tools: athleticism, length, ability,” said cornerbacks coach Charles Clark. “It’s just his consistency has been a lot better this fall camp, even from the spring. I’ve been really pleased with him.”
The 6-foot-3, 190-pound Witherspoon’s ability has always been apparent. Last year, he played in all 13 games and started in eight, finishing with 41 tackles (36 solo), seven third-down stops, four pass deflections, two interceptions and two touchdown saves. One of those interceptions, a perfect read in the end zone, halted an Oregon drive deep in CU territory.
But this fall, he’s taken his game to another level, something he attributes to finally having confidence in himself and his abilities.
—–
August 22nd
Schedule – Meetings (7:00 a.m), Practice #20 (8:30-10:45 a.m.) – FIRST DAY OF CLASSES
Offensive line nearly set … except for the right tackle position
From CUBuffs.com … One area that has sorted itself out throughout camp has been the offensive line. The Buffs opened camp with left tackle Jeromy Irwin as the only guaranteed starter, but there seems to be little doubt now that Gerrad Kough has nailed down the job at left guard, incumbent starter Alex Kelley has the edge at center and redshirt freshman Tim Lynott Jr. is the narrow leader at right guard.
That, however, still leaves right tackle. O-line coach Klayton Adams said Monday there are still three players — Sam Kronshage, Aaron Haigler and Shane Callahan — battling for the spot.
“The difference is not a lot because all of them kind of bring something different to the table,” Adams said. “Ultimately I think the guy that ends up starting at that position is the guy who does the most things well.”
As for the other spots, Adams said Kough has “probably been the most consistent guy through camp.”
Kough, a 6-foot-4, 295-pound junior, started 10 games last year and has 12 career starts under his belt. A proven run blocker, Adams said Kough has also made solid strides in his pass protection.
“He’s had a really good camp,” Adams said. “He’s starting to play with a little bit better technique in pass protection and he comes off the ball really well in the run game. He is a little bit of a quiet guy, but he’s actually become kind of a pillar of strength for the group and a little bit of a leader just because of the way he works and the way he conducts himself.”
… Continue reading story here …
—
—
Coach MacIntyre talk with media after Monday’s practice
From YouTube, courtesy of CUSportsNation:
—
Freshman running back Beau Bisharat: “Like a fish out of water”
From CUBuffs.com … Freshman Beau Bisharat could add his name to that group of available running backs once he gets acclimated to his new surroundings, the playbook and the speed of the game. But that might take a while and Hagan won’t rush the process.
“He’s swimming . . . a little like a fish out of water,” Hagan said. “But one thing about him, he doesn’t pout. He gets his work done and goes hard, but he’s going with the threes. And they’re all guys who just got here. He’s still figuring it out but I’m pleased with what he’s doing.”
Bisharat, of Sacramento, Calif., said the adjustment to this level is difficult but he’s working at it. The speed of the game, the size of the playbook and camp’s full days taxed him. He called it “a grind,” noting he left his dorm room at 7 a.m. and usually didn’t return until 9 p.m. And with classes starting Monday, academics were injected into his schedule.
“It’s something I’m not used to at all,” he said. “But I’m trying to adjust and power through it . . . I’m trying to get better every day and show the coaches what I can do. I’m just trying to make sure I dive in and learn my stuff so when my number’s called I’m ready.”
… Continue reading story here …
—–
August 21st
Schedule … Team day off (brunch, rehab, dinner) – Welcome back picnic (Private)
Tweet of the Day, from Joe Tumpkin: Camp is over. Very proud of the toughness & knowledge the players showed. Every day we will get better for opener. #theriseisreal #gobuffs
The “other” transfer wide receiver, Kabion Ento, looking to step up in Winfree’s absence
From the Daily Camera … With Juwann Winfree now sidelined for the season with a knee injury, opportunity is knocking for a lot of Colorado’s receivers.
Junior Kabion Ento is hoping he can seize the moment.
“I have to,” he said. “With a guy like that going down, the balls have to go somewhere. I’ll just try to step up and do my part and get some of those.”
… Like Winfree, Ento is a transfer, coming to CU from East Central (Miss.) Community College. He caught 38 passes for 607 yards and eight touchdowns last year, earning first-team South All-State honors.
To excel at CU and in the Pac-12, however, Ento knows he has to elevate his game.
“The coaches usually say it’s day to day,” Ento said. “I’m usually doing OK or usually doing good. I just need to stay consistent. They say I have flashes here and there and I just need to stay consistent with that. The more I do that, the better off I’ll be.”
… Continue reading story here …
—
Bryce Bobo accepting the challenge of replacing Juwann Winfree in the starting lineup
From CUBuffs.com … If there’s any one position group the Buffs could afford an injury, it might be wide receiver. With Bryce Bobo and fellow juniors Shay Fields and Devin Ross all having solid camps, along with sophomore Jay MacIntyre and junior college transfer Kabion Ento, the Buffs are at least deep at the position.
“We’d definitely love to have him (Winfree) out there,” MacIntyre said. “There’s no doubt about that. He’s a phenomenal young man. He was having a really good fall camp and he was going to help us a lot.”
But softening the blow of losing Winfree has been the performance of Bobo. Both play the “X” receiver.
“Bryce Bobo has been having the best camp he’s ever had since I’ve been here,” MacIntyre said. “He is in better shape coming into camp. We’ve always worked hard in the summers, but he’s stronger, he’s more powerful. He always pulled something in camp in the previous years and he’s always missed half of camp. He didn’t do that once this year, and he’s been able to keep aggressive.”
Bobo has indeed been aggressive. In two consecutive practices earlier this week, he hauled in a pair of touchdown passes, and all were tough catches, including a one-handed grab worthy of a highlight reel.
Those plays definitely caught the attention of wide receivers coach Darrin Chiaverini.
“He’s making big plays, plays that are critical in football games to win,” Chiaverini said.
Saturday, Chiaverini hadn’t changed his tune.
“Bryce has had an excellent camp and he’s really come on since he’s been healthy and making big plays,” Chiaverini said. “We’re going to need him in the season.”
… “I think I’ve made big strides this season,” Bobo said. “I’m a lot more confident this year and I’m trying to take a leadership role with the wide receiver group. We’re all sad one of our receivers got hurt, but when one player goes down, the next person has to step up.”
… Continue reading story here …
—–
August 20th
Schedule … Meetings (9:30 a.m.), Practice No. 19 (10:05 a.m. -11:45 a.m.)
Buffs have “a ton of energy” in final scrimmage
From CUBuffs.com … One day after the Colorado Buffaloes engaged in their third scrimmage of fall camp, head coach Mike MacIntyre wasn’t sure what to expect from his team when the players hit the field for a Saturday morning practice.
MacIntyre was pleasantly surprised.
“They had a ton of energy from having a good long scrimmage last night, which I was really pleased with,” MacIntyre said. “They had a lot of fun and we got a lot accomplished. The kids had a great mental attitude this morning — I was waiting to see how it was going to be after practicing hard last night.”
Weather pushed Friday night’s scrimmage into CU’s Indoor Practice Facility, but the Buffs still got plenty of snaps in, including some situational work, red zone, goal line and special teams.
“We got three good scrimmages in,” MacIntyre said. “Nobody got hurt in any of those scrimmages, which was interesting. We covered all our basics and we were very, very physical in those scrimmages. I think it’s just a credit to how much more powerful and stronger our team is, staying healthy in those. Sometimes you can’t help the non-contact injuries. But we were able be more physical. It was good.”
The Buffs did lose one player, wide receiver Juwann Winfree, to a season-ending knee injury earlier this week, but it was in a non-contact drill.
Now, with less than two weeks remaining until the Sept. 2 season opener vs. Colorado State in Denver (6 p.m., ESPN) and classes beginning Monday, the Buffs will resume their regular “in-season” schedule. That will mean morning practices (usually about 8:30 a.m.).
It also means they’ll begin work next week on specific game planning for their first few games and working on season specifics. Coaches will meet over the weekend to begin the process, and they’ll also start sorting out a two-deep depth chart on both sides of the ball.
—
INJURY UPDATES: Running back Michael Adkins II, hampered by a hamstring strain since early in camp, has returned to limited drills. … MacIntyre said safety Ryan Moeller, recovering from an ankle sprain, could resume some full-speed drills as soon as Monday.
—
Mike MacIntyre post-practice address to media
YouTube video courtesy of CUSportsNation:
Season ticket sale update
From the Daily Camera … Last year, the Buffs sold 17,124 season tickets for football and associate AD/chief marketing officer Matt Biggers said the school is nearing that number again with the home opener three weeks away. About 90 percent of season ticket holders renewed their tickets for this season. … Student ticket sales should increase in the next few weeks with students back on campus, but as of now, the Buffs are about 1,000 tickets ahead of where they were at this point last year, Biggers said.
—–
August 19th
Schedule … Academic Meetings, Football Meetings (3:50 p.m), Practice #18 (6:00-8:40 p.m.) – Boulder Chamber Kickoff Luncheon (11:30 a.m., Balch Fieldhouse)
Quote of the Day – from Philip Cudaback (EnvDes ’88) to the CU Class of 2020, who gathered at Folsom Thursday night: “Have a great time, and enjoy the next chapter of your life. You will always remember your times at dear ‘ol CU”.
Wide receiver Juwann Winfree out for the season with torn ACL
Tweet from Darrin Chiaverini … @OnlyOne_JW it’s not the event that defines your character! It’s your response! Buffaloes travel together and take care of our own! #Family
—
Press release from CUBuffs.com … University of Colorado junior wide receiver Juwann Winfree will be lost for the season after suffering torn knee ligaments in practice earlier this week, head coach Mike MacIntyre announced Friday evening.
The 6-3, 205-pound junior college transfer suffered the knee injury in Wednesday morning’s practice. CU team physicians examined him twice, including late Friday afternoon, and the determination was made that he did in fact tear his ACL and will have to undergo season-ending surgery in the near future.
Winfree was making an immediate impact at wide receiver, as he was coming off a fine junior college season combined with some previous Division I experience at Maryland.
“We all really feel for Juwann, he is a phenomenal young man and has fit in really well on our team,” MacIntyre said. “Unfortunately this is what can happen in football. But Juwann is a very positive young man and no doubt will work hard in his rehabilitation and will be back for 2017.”
He arrived at Colorado with three years to play two in eligibility, thus can take a redshirt year for this season.
As a sophomore last year at Coffeyville Community College, he earned honorable mention All-KJCCC honors, when he was ranked as the No. 26 JUCO prospect in the nation and as the fifth receiver. He had 55 receptions for 837 yards and seven touchdowns; he had four 100-yard games in averaging 15.2 yards per catch.
He transferred to Coffeyville from the University of Maryland, where he played as a true freshman. He saw action in eight games (no starts), making 11 receptions for 158 yards and two touchdowns. His first career touchdown was a 30-yard reception at Indiana, and had his season high in both receptions and yards (4-80) at No. 13 Michigan State (one of those was a 31-yard touchdown)
—
Devin Ross motivated to make up for mistakes made last season
From the Daily Camera … Walking off the practice field on Thursday, Devin Ross couldn’t hide his fatigue.
Three weeks into Colorado’s fall football camp, the legs of the junior receiver aren’t as fresh as they once were.
“They’re pretty tired, I can’t lie, but I’ll get in the cold tub and later on, too, and I’ll be back for tomorrow,” he said.
Ross certainly isn’t the only player feeling camp fatigue at this point, but with the Sept. 2 season opener quickly approaching and tough competition for playing time at receiver, he knows there’s no time to rest.
“I don’t want to rest at all,” Ross said. “I want to go undefeated this season. We have to do whatever it takes.”
Since last season, Ross has done everything in his power to make this season a better one for himself and the Buffaloes.
Although he caught 25 passes for 324 yards and two touchdowns last season, he also had untimely dropped passes.
Then, he was the talk of spring drills as he caught nearly everything thrown his way. So far this fall, Ross has continued to perform well.
… Continue reading story here …
—
Tedric Thompson looking for award-worthy senior season
From CUBuffs.com … For the last three seasons, Tedric Thompson has been one of the most consistent and productive players on Colorado’s defense.
He has 24 career starts to his credit, including all 13 games a year ago. In 2014 he led the Buffs in interceptions with three — the only three the Buffs produced all season — and he added three more last year, tying for the team lead. He also finished with 80 tackles (third best), five tackles for loss, six third-down stops and nine pass breakups.
For his efforts, he was a third-team all-Pac-12 pick by Phil Steele while the conference’s coaches made him an honorable mention selection. Heading into this season, he was a preseason third-team all-conference pick.
But numbers and accolades really don’t register on Thompson’s radar. What does get his attention, though, is the fact that he’s playing in a secondary that he and his coaches believe could be among one of the best in the Pac-12 — and one, they believe, that could help the Buffs produce one of their best seasons in recent memory.
“I think he’s going to be one of the better DBs in the conference,” said CU safeties coach Joe Tumpkin. “He’s made huge strides in everything — his mental game, his knowledge, his technique. This being his second year in this defensive scheme, he has a better understanding of it. It’s allowed him this camp and last spring to really kind of refine his skills, his tools. He’s done an unbelievable job in that, and he’s also taken on more of a leadership role, too.”
… Continue reading story here …
—–
August 18th
Schedule … Meetings (8:30 a.m.), Practice No. 17 (9:05-11:45 a.m.), Walk-through (8:00-9:00 p.m.) – Welcome CU Freshman Event (Folsom Field)
Tweet of the Day … From running backs coach Darian Hagan: “We are grinding hard and we’re better!!! Go Buffs”
Mike MacIntyre: “They’re coming out and getting after it every day’
From CUBuffs.com … Now past the two-week mark of preseason camp, and with two more weeks to go until the first game, it’s that time when football teams can begin to drag.
But, Colorado coach Mike MacIntyre said Thursday he’s seen no signs of that thus far from the Buffs. Instead, MacIntyre said Thursday, the Buffs have maintained a steady focus from Day One.
“The attitude has been excellent, it really has,” MacIntyre said. “They’re coming out and getting after it every day. They’re staying focused, and the guys on the sidelines are staying into it, which is critical.”
The Buffs hit the practice fields Thursday morning in full pads for their 17th practice of camp. That leaves 12 practices and 14 days until the Sept. 2 season opener vs. Colorado State in Denver (6 p.m., ESPN).
MacIntyre isn’t surprised at his team’s focus. It’s a result, he said, of a team full of upperclassmen, players who have been through the process before and not only know what to expect, but also know what is required to improve each day.
“It’s just the maturity factor,” MacIntyre said. “They’re not just trying to get through practice, they’re trying to learn and get better. A lot of that has to do with maturity.”
… Continue reading story here …
—
Sam Kronshage and Aaron Haigler in battle for starting right tackle position
From the Daily Camera … When Klayton Adams took over as the Colorado offensive line coach in February, he made it very clear that every starting job was up for grabs.
The challenge to compete is one that Sam Kronshage has embraced all offseason, and with the Buffaloes’ opener just two weeks away, he believes he’s a better player because of it.
“Still to this day, there’s not a concrete five starters yet,” Kronshage said. “It makes us go out every day and compete against each other which is good; a nice healthy competition.
“Me and (Aaron) Haigler, who are going at the right tackle, we’re great buddies, we’re pushing each other. I think it’s improving both of our games by making us compete like that.”
A fourth-year junior, the 6-foot-6, 295-pound Kronshage has impressed CU coaches and teammates with his development in the offseason and his play in camp.
… Continue reading story here …
—
Practice Tidbits from CUBuffs.com … Along with special teams, another area the Buffs have continued to make a priority since the beginning of camp has been work in the red zone. “We’re making steps in that area,” MacIntyre said. “We’re making steps on both sides of the ball.” … Defensive lineman Jordan Carrell, who added about 20 pounds to his frame in the offseason, has improved his pass rush this year. Carrell has developed a strong push off the ball and has been much more consistent in pushing the pocket back and disrupting the quarterback. Carrell had just one sack last year, but did have seven tackles for loss, second-best on the team, as well as a team-high three forced fumbles. … Fifth-year senior Sully Wiefels continues to compete for a starting spot on the offensive line. … Junior wide receiver Bryce Bobocontinued an excellent week with another leaping catch on the goal line in team drills. … Sophomore OLB Terran Hasselbach continues to make strides in the pass rush, and is proving to be an outstanding open-field tackler.
—
Mike MacIntyre post-practice talk with media (Thurs.)
From YouTube, courtesy of CUSportsNation.com:
—
Mike MacIntyre pleased with Special Teams by committee approach
From CUBuffs.com … The direction of the Colorado Buffaloes’ special teams will be in new hands in 2016. Many new hands, in fact. As for how that affects the kicking, coverage and return games, stay tuned.
Rather than hire one person to replace the departed Toby Neinas, Buffs coach Mike MacIntyre elected to spread out the special teams duties. And that includes MacIntyre himself devoting more time in practice to special teams work, with his position coaches taking on various areas of responsibility.
“I was always involved in making sure we had special teams (time) in practice,” MacIntyre said. “With us having coaches doing different areas I kind of make sure the coach knows it’s his time, his day. I’m sitting in on it, just like I did before, but now with each individual area.
“I guess there is a little bit more (personal) focus but each coach has an individual responsibility so the monkey is on his back so to speak. I’m noticing a lot more involvement by our coaches – I’m not saying there wasn’t before, but when it’s your team, if you’re in charge of a certain phase . . . I’ve been pleased with how it’s gone.”
… Continue reading special teams preview story here …
—–
August 17th
Schedule … Two-A-Days /Meetings (8:30 a.m.), Practice #15 (9:20-12:00 p.m), Practice #16 (7:30-9:00 p.m.)
Jim Leavitt tweet of the day: “Focus, intensity, urgency, and discipline! 4 words to live by. Everyday we are learning what that means. Each practice. Get after it!”
—
CU at the midway point of Fall Camp
From Neill Woelk at CUBuffs.com … With the completion of Wednesday morning’s practice, the Colorado Buffaloes passed the halfway point of fall camp.
The Buffs wrapped up their 15th of 29 fall camp practices in shells (shorts and shoulder pads), leaving just 14 practices and 16 days before the Sept. 2 season opener vs. Colorado State in Denver (6 p.m., ESPN).
By virtually all accounts, it’s been a good camp for the Buffs. Position coaches have been pleased with the progress at their respective positions, injuries (knock on wood) have been minimal and the Buffs’ attitude has been positive.
Perhaps most importantly, the Buffs haven’t had what head coach Mike MacIntyre has termed a “bad” practice. Certainly there have been ups and downs, but overall, the Buffs have made strides on a daily basis. That’s not always the case — in any team’s camp — and while there’s still a couple of weeks’ worth of practices remaining, it’s nevertheless a strong sign that this team’s focus is exactly where it should be.
Thus, in honor of the halfway point, here are some random thoughts, observations and guesstimations as the Buffs move ever closer to their season opener (it’s worth your time …):
— STRONGEST AREA
— BEST COMPETITION
— MOST RAPID IMPROVEMENT
— SIZE MATTERS
— COMMITTEE POSSIBILITIES
— QB DEPTH
— DEPTH INSIDE, BUT
— GETTING THEIR KICKS
—
Mike MacIntyre talk with media after Wednesday’s first practice
From YouTube, courtesy of CUSportsNation:
—
ESPN: “Colorado’s defense has made huge strides, but is it enough?”
From ESPN … The questions are getting old; the answers, clichéd.
When, Mike MacIntyre, will your Colorado team breakthrough?
When, Mike MacIntyre, will the culture change be complete?
When Mike MacIntyre, will your team take the next step?
When? When? When?
But these are the wrong questions. And MacIntyre knows it, which is why he’ll often respond with all of the pomp and verve of a paint-drying TED Talk.
Because while it might not be noticeable to the common observer, the Buffs have already broken through. The culture has changed. And the next step has already been taken.
The right question to ask is: When will all of the behind-the-scenes progress translate into wins?
Now, you can see MacIntyre’s blood start to come up. His facial expressions shift from relaxed to shades of frustration. He knows the progress is there, but it’s not necessarily tangible. He knows his team was competitive in almost every game last season with lost opportunities against UCLA, Utah and USC — falling to the South’s top three teams by a combined 13 points.
“Those are the things that wake me up every night,” MacIntyre said. “We’re right there. Players make plays, players win games and our kids understand that completely now.”
… Continue reading story here …
—–
August 16th
Schedule … Meetings (8:30 a.m.), Practice No. 14 (9:05-11:45 a.m.), ^Walk-through (8:10-9:10 p.m.)
CU offense makes a comeback in Wednesday scrimmage
From CUBuffs.com … One day after the defense exerted its will in Monday’s 11-on-11 team drills, the Colorado offense came back and had its turn making big plays in a Wednesday morning scrimmage.
With the Buffaloes in full pads, head coach Mike MacIntyre put his team through approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes of full-contact work, and once again, MacIntyre and his staff came away happy with the physical nature of the workout.
“We had a really physical, physical practice,” MacIntyre said. “They got after it. They’ve got camp legs, but they didn’t act like it. They pushed through it. I liked the physicality again. We worked a lot of different situations, and I wanted to see some competitiveness.”
Overall, the scrimmage might have been the best showing by the No. 1 offense thus far in camp. Quarterback Sefo Liufau, who admitted his effort in Saturday’s scrimmage was a bit erratic, had what offensive co-coordinator Darrin Chiaverini called probably his best practice of fall camp. Liufau was sharp with both his long and short game, and had a good day in reading his checks and progressions.
… Continue reading story here …
—
Practice Tidbits
While the offense enjoyed one of its better days of camp, the defense still had its share of plays. Defensive back Chidobe Awuzie made a beautiful break on a ball on a crossing route, moving in front of the receiver to break up a pass near the sideline on what initially looked to be a sure completion. … CU continues to get good pressure from its front five. … True freshman quarterback Sam Noyer continues to impress. … One matchup fun to observe came when true freshman defensive back Ronnie Blackmon and Huntley faced each other in the scrimmage. Both have had impressive camps, and you can bet it’s a battle that will have its share of highlight moments over the next several years. … Sophomore Kyle Trego, a junior college transfer, and senior Travis Talianko both saw some time at safety. … True freshman Derrion Rakestraw had a nice catch and sideline tightrope for a long gain. … CU corners Isaiah Oliver and Ahkello Witherspoon both had solid plays in coverage.
—
Mike MacIntyre post-practice talk with media (Tuesday)
From YouTube, courtesy of CUSportsNation.com
—
Linebacker Jimmie Gilbert vows to get to double digits in sacks in 2016
… Related … “Linebacker Drew Lewis impresses coaches in CU Buffs’ scrimmage” … from the Daily Camera
From CUBuffs.com … In a conference that featured nine of the top 50 passing offenses in the nation a year ago, including No. 1 Washington State, defenses know they have to put pressure on the quarterback.
A year ago, the Colorado Buffaloes improved their standing slightly in that regard, finishing with 27 quarterback sacks — five more than the previous season.
But that was still tied for only 10th in the Pac-12. The Buffs know that for their defense to take another big step forward this year, they’ll need to increase that number again.
CU senior outside linebacker Jimmie Gilbert says he’s ready to do his part.
A year ago, Gilbert led the Buffs in sacks with six. That’s not an eye-popping number — until you figure that Gilbert achieved that number in just 394 snaps, meaning he averaged one quarterback sack for roughly every 66 snaps.The next-highest number for the Buffs came from Gilbert’s fellow OLB Derek McCartney, who finished with five sacks in 648 snaps — roughly one sack per 130 snaps.
While Gilbert figures to play a little more this season, his total number of plays on the field still might not increase dramatically. He’s not often on the field in CU’s nickel package, which limits his playing time to a degree.
Still, he’s of the firm belief that he needs to significantly increase his sack total this season — no matter how many plays he’s on the field.
“Last year was not enough. It was nowhere near enough,” Gilbert said earlier this week. “I need to get at least double digits this year just so we can get to that bowl game.”
… Continue reading story here …
—–
August 15th
Kyle Evans put on scholarship – a popular decision with the team
From CUBuffs.com … When Colorado coach Mike MacIntyre called his five team captains in front of the entire team Monday, players weren’t sure what to think.
When MacIntyre then called sophomore walk-on running back Kyle Evans to the front and said he’d received a letter concerning Evans that he wanted Evans to read in front of the team, eyebrows were raised.
Then, when MacIntyre walked away and said, “You all are going to have to sort this out among yourselves,” all eyes were on Evans.
Players know those kinds of circumstances usually don’t bode well for the player in the spotlight.
“I thought I was in trouble at first,” Evans later confessed. “I thought Code of Conduct caught me doing something bad. I knew I didn’t do anything bad, but who knows? Then I started reading the sheet …”
And seconds later, he was mobbed by his teammates. The letter, from MacIntyre, informed Evans that he was being placed on scholarship immediately, and the Buffs were quick to offer their congratulations to one of the most popular players on the team.
… Continue reading story here …
—
Practice Tidbits
While many of the team drills have been fairly even thus far in fall camp, the defense had the upper edge in Monday morning’s 11-on-11 work. The defense got some good pass rush pressure from outside linebackers Derek McCartney and Jimmie Gilbert and interior linemen Samson Kafovalu and Jordan Carrell, and CU’s defensive backs were outstanding in pass coverage. … The offense did, though, make some plays. Wide receiver Bryce Bobo had the catch of the day, a one-handed grab in the end zone on a pass from Sefo Liufau, and Liufau also had a touchdown pass toShay Fields. Liufau kept the play alive by moving to his right, then threw back across the field to his left to a streaking Fields. … Evans had a touchdown pass out of the backfield on a nice wheel route. … True freshman wide receiver/defensive back Tony Julmisse continues to make plays on both sides of the ball. … Defensive backs Isaiah Oliver and Afolabi Laguda both had nice pass breakups in the end zone.
—
Mike MacIntyre talks with media after Monday morning’s practice
YouTube video courtesy of CUSportsNation.com
—
Schedule … Pac-12 Network crew in Boulder
Meetings (8:30 a.m.), Practice No. 12 (9:20-11:30 a.m.), Practice No. 13 (7:30-9:00 p.m.) – Pac-12 Networks Visit (show airs at 10 p.m. MDT) … In addition to the Training Camp special, the Pac-12 Networks will be televising on Monday night replays of the CU game against Missouri from 1990 (the 5th down game); the 2001 Big 12 Championship game against Texas; and the 2015 road victory over Oregon State.
If you would like to do a little prep work … From the CU at the Game Archives … No. 12 Colorado at Missouri, 1990 … No. 9 Colorado v. No. 3 Texas, 2001 Big 12 championship … Colorado at Oregon State, 2015 …
—
Tedric Thompson: “I don’t want to look back on my senior year with any regrets”
From CUBuffs.com … Tedric Thompson has led the Colorado Buffaloes in interceptions for the past two seasons, but to hear him explain why is to gain insight into what he’s all about.
And it’s not about the numbers . . . at least not the personal ones.
Thompson is a prototypical strong safety – 6-feet, a solid 210 pounds and the fervent deliverer of chilling hits. He also has that extra sense, a football knack, of being a right-place/right-time guy. His coaches rightfully call him a playmaker, and his team-best three picks in 2014 (CU’s only three) and 2015 back up that description.
If he’s fortunate enough to lead the Buffs in interceptions for a third consecutive season, he’ll take it – but he’s not chasing it. His six picks over two seasons “is something that just happened,” he said. “I really don’t have (personal) goals, I just want to get wins.
“Any interception I do have, if you really go look, it’s because the other ten guys on the field are doing their job and I just happen to be where the ball’s going. So it’s really just a team effort. When it comes to stats, it’s not like I’m doing it myself. It’s the team.”
… Continue reading B.G. Brooks’ preview of the CU secondary here …
August 14th
Offensive line coach Klayton Adams discusses the CU scrimmage
YouTube video courtesy of the Daily Camera …
Quotable Klayton Adams:
— “I felt like we played hard … I think there are a ton of things we still need to get better at. I’m not sure that we are moving the line of scrimmage the way that we need to. I don’t think it’s an effort thing, I think it’s a technique thing”.
— “There’s definitely still competition (for the starting five). I think we are closing in on about eight guys. The unit that played with the ones today (Irwin, Kough, Kelley, Lynott, Kronshage) we’re the ones I wanted to look at”.
— “I think that Sam Kronshage has taken a nice jump. I think Aaron Haigler has taken a nice jump … I think Shane Callahan is playing fundamentally better than he did in the spring”.
—–
August 13th – Fall Camp scrimmage coverage
Related … “CU Buffs making progress up front – Offensive line solid in scrimmage, but still has work to do” … from the Daily Camera
Related … “Freshman Tony Julmisse shines in CU Buffs scrimmage” … from the Daily Camera
—
Sefo Liufau still rusty: “I was just glad to get out there and get it going”
From CUBuffs.com … When Colorado quarterback Sefo Liufau first set foot Saturday on Folsom Field, he admitted it felt “a little bit surreal.”
After all, the last time Liufau had taken a snap on the Folsom turf came last Nov. 13, when he suffered a Lisfranc foot injury against Southern California, an injury that sidelined him for the remaining two games of the season and the entire spring.
So Liufau couldn’t have been blamed for being just a tiny bit nervous when he stepped on the field Saturday morning — Aug. 13 — for the Buffs’ first scrimmage of fall camp.
“I was just glad to get out there and get it going,” Liufau said. “I said a quick little prayer before I came onto the field and then just went out and played. I just felt really blessed to be able to come back out here with the guys and be able to play. Honestly, I feel lucky overall.”
Liufau, by his own admission, wasn’t as sharp as he’d like to be. But overall, he did have a solid scrimmage, completing several third-down throws, including one in a two-minute drill that helped set up a field goal (complete statistics were not made public).
“Honestly, I’m pretty frustrated with how it went,” Liufau said. “I’m a perfectionist and I think I kind of got caught up in the moment of just being happy to be back out here. By all means it wasn’t a terrible day, but I just want to make all the throws and put us in good spots to win games.”
… Continue reading story here …
—
Mike MacIntyre: “I saw a lot of aggression out there … I like the physical-ness of our football team”
Mike MacIntyre addresses the media after the Saturday scrimmage. YouTube video courtesy of the Daily Camera
Some quotes:
— “There were plays made on both sides of the ball. I saw a lot of aggression”
— “We got out of here with zero injuries, which is awesome” (quarterback Steven Montez twisted his ankle during the scrimmage, and was held out the remainder of session for precautionary reasons)
— “Overall, I did like the effort. There were a lot of good hits out there. I like the physical-ness of our football team”.
— “We’re going to keep using (Anthony Julmisse) both ways for awhile … He makes plays on both sides of the ball (including an 80-yard touchdown reception). We just have to figure out where he’ll play the most”.
— “The quarterbacks did well overall … I didn’t see them look confused or look dazed. If they were confused, I didn’t see that … I think Brian Lindgren has done a good job with them”.
— “Sefo (Liufau) did a lot of good things today. He did some good checks, made some good third down throws. The one interception he threw, Ahkello (Witherspoon) made a great play”.
— The offensive line remains a work in progress. The starters were Jeromy Irwin, Gerrad Kough, Alex Kelley, Tim Lynott and Sam Kronshage. Said MacIntyre, “I thought they did well, there was a couple plays there, our third unit some of those guys are a little young and even sometimes the defensive guys were coming to the wrong places. But I thought the first and second unit for the most part did well, we’ll look at it on film.”
—
— Several players were held out of the scrimmage for precautionary reasons, including linebacker Addison Gillam and wide receivers Juwann Winfree and Jaleel Awini. Other players who did not play include safety Ryan Moeller and running back Michael Adkins.
— The kickers were perfect during the scrimmage, with both Diego Gonzalez and Chris Graham connecting on their opportunities. MacIntyre’s take: “I was really pleased with how are field goal kickers kicked, under pressure, we were bringing pressure every time. I was really pleased with that.”
— Two touchdown passes were thrown during the scrimmage, both by senior Jordan Gehrke. One went to Anthony Julmisse for 80 yards, the other to Kabion Ento for 50 yards.
—
CU coaches to treat open scrimmage like an NFL preseason game
From CUBuffs.com … When the Colorado Buffaloes hit the field Saturday morning for their first major scrimmage of fall camp, the coaching staff will be looking for consistency and production from young players aiming to make an impression.
Consistency means consistent drives from the offense — steady production, play after play — and consistent play from the defense — good tackling, adhering to assignments and no big plays.
For younger players, it will be their first big opportunity to make their case for some playing time.
Granted, since they will be playing against each other, both sides won’t be getting everything they want. But the scrimmage will give CU’s coaches a chance to look at a number of young players in their first truly “live” action of camp.
“I would hope that we would have good rhythm and execution,” head coach Mike MacIntyre said after Friday’s practice, the first of two CU workouts of the day. “They’ll be out there without the coaches on the field with them. We’ll truly see what they know.”
Pac-12 officials will be on hand to officiate the scrimmage, which will also give the Buffs their first taste this camp of playing with the threat of penalty flags flying. The team is scheduled to meet with the officials before the scrimmage, and the team should be on the Folsom Field turf by approximately 9:45 a.m.
While CU’s veterans will no doubt get some time on the field, a good portion of the scrimmage, MacIntyre said, will be used to get a look at a some of the younger players vying for playing time. With Friday marking the three-week countdown to the Sept. 2 season opener vs. Colorado State in Denver (ESPN), coaches are no doubt starting starting the process of sorting out depth chart possibilities.
“We’ve got a few guys we’d like to look at in the heat of the battle,” MacIntyre said. “We’ll give some of our guys who have played a lot of football some reps, kind of like you do a preseason game, and then get them out.”
… Continue reading story here …
—–
August 12th
Mike MacIntyre talks with media after Friday’s practice
YouTube video courtesy of CUSportsNation.com
—
Michael Adkins back at practice
From the Daily Camera … During his career at Colorado, running back Michael Adkins II has spent more time on the sidelines than he imagined.
The junior is hoping his latest setback isn’t a big deal, however.
Adkins tweaked his hamstring on Saturday and was out until Thursday, when he returned on a limited basis.
“Just a little mix up, but I’m getting that back and ready to go,” he said. “Definitely easing back into it and we’ll keep on making progress and make sure I’m 100 percent for the games.”
… Continue reading story here …
—–
August 11th
Justin Bannan and Daniel Graham address Buffs after practice
From CUBuffs.com … It’s not every day that Colorado coach Mike MacIntyre allows someone to address the entire team after practice.
But when guests at practice have a background like two of the men at Thursday’s CU workout, it’s an easy decision — especially when their message is one that resonates so well with players.
Thursday morning, former CU teammates Daniel Graham and Justin Bannan (starters on CU’s 2001 Big 12 championship team) took a moment to talk to the current Buffs — and they clearly had the full attention of the entire team.
Their message was simple yet powerful.
“It’s about you guys and this locker room,” said Graham, the 2001 Mackey Award winner and a unanimous All-American tight end selection. “It’s about being one in the locker room. It’s about coming out here to practice every day and being one on the field. What you guys do is going to change the direction of this program — if you do your job.”
Graham, a first-round draft pick who went on to enjoy an 11-year NFL career, now makes his home in Denver and has kept a close eye on the Buffs. Last year, he returned to CU and completed his degreee.
Graham challenged the Buffs to be accountable every day, every play.
“Do your job so your teammates can depend on you,” Graham told the players. “You have to be one. You guys are the ones that get this thing turned around if you do your job every day and hold yourself accountable every day.”
… CU senior Chidobe Awuzie said the message from both players hit home with the current players.
“Anytime Coach MacIntyre lets somebody talk to the team, we’re definitely going to listen,” Awuzie said. “These two guys were definitely special players here in their careers as Colorado Buffaloes. We really appreciate what they said to us, and hopefully we stick to it. It definitely gives us a little more motivation.”
… Continue reading story here …
Kordell Stewart talks about the Buff Club
—
Mike MacIntyre addresses the media after Thursday’s practice
YouTube video courtesy of BSN Denver:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kXQNtH1rtn8
—
Shay Fields: “As a receiving corps, we can all do it”
… Related … “CU Buffs’ Shay Fields adds muscle” … from the Daily Camera
From CUBuffs.com … “I like what I’m seeing from Shay as far as leadership,” wide receivers coach Chiaverini said earlier in camp. “He’s a different guy than he was even in the spring. You can tell he’s into it. He wants to lead.”
Fields said the change is just part of his personality.
“That just comes with me,” Fields said with a smile. “In the spring, I’m a little more lenient-type of guy. It’s early, guys are getting used to the program. But when fall comes around, you blink and the season is here. When fall camp starts (he snaps his fingers) — you’ve gotta go.”
With two very productive seasons already under his belt, Fields is expected to once again be a key part of CU’s passing attack, particularly with Nelson Spruce gone.
“As a receiving corps, we can all do it,” Fields said. “I feel we have a lot of great players. I think all of us have a chance to step into that role and catch a lot of balls. If it’s me, so be it — but I know one of us will be able to do it.”
—
Practice Tidbits … from CUBuffs.com … CU’s receivers continue to stand out in 11-on-11 work and in individual drills. Wide receiver Devin Ross and tight end Sean Irwin both had beautiful fingertip grabs in the morning session on passes from Sefo Liufau. … Redshirt freshman quarterback Steven Montez continues to show a strong and accurate arm. … Defensive back Chidobe Awuzie had his third interception in two days, making a beautiful break on a ball and getting to it a split second ahead of the receiver. … True freshmen Tony Julmisse, Beau Bisharat, Johnny Huntley III, Derrion Rakestraw and Akil Jones all produced good plays Wednesday. … The best interception of the session may have been one produced by cornerback Isaiah Oliver, who ran step-for-step with receiver Kabion Ento on a long ball, then made a leaping grab on the run at the last second. Oliver then followed that with a nice diving knockdown in the end zone. … The Buffs’ defensive line continues to improve at getting pressure on the quarterback, and linebackers Derek McCartney and Jimmie Gilbert are showing every sign of picking up where they left off last year, when they combined for 11 quarterback sacks. … Inside linebackers Kenneth Olugbode and Rick Gamboa both have had good camps, particularly in red zone and goal-line situations.
—
Kenneth Olugbode has earned the respect of his teammates
From the Daily Camera … When the Colorado football team met last month to vote on captains, linebacker Kenneth Olugbode never expected he’d be nominated.
… For Olugbode, it’s an honor he doesn’t take lightly as he and the Buffaloes aim to end their 10-year streak of losing seasons.
“It means I have a lot of these guys’ respect, and based on that, I still have to earn their respect regardless, but I have to make a good name (personally) and help the team out,” he said.
… As a leader and captain, Olugbode feels some responsibility to make sure this defense does improve. Nearly a week into fall camp, the Buffs are on the right track.
“I think it’s going really well,” Olugbode said. “As a defense we’re coming together really well, especially because we have a really old group. A lot of us have been playing together since we were freshmen, so everything is seamless out there.
“We communicate really well and play really well together.”
… Continue reading story here …
—–
August 10th
Jim Leavitt tweet of the day: “By far the best practice so far on Defense today. Very proud of these men. Must play with Effort! Must demand it. Train your minds! Go Buffs!”
—
Coach MacIntyre post-morning practice talk with media
(Wednesday is the first day of two-a-day practices. Second practice will be indoors tonight)
YouTube video courtesy of CUSportsNation.com:
—
Donovan Lee: “I think I’ve found a home playing running back”
From CUBuffs.com … Junior running back Donovan Lee has earned a reputation as a player with big-play potential, a back who can turn a short run into a long gain, and for good reason.
“I love having that mentality that no one’s going to stop me whenever I get that close to the end zone,” Lee said. “I love when the coaches believe in me and give me the opportunity. Just being in there with the guys and looking everyone in the eye and knowing that nothing’s going to stop all of us from doing our job of getting it in the end zone, just putting it in for six.”
Lee has also had some nice runs in space, and his former position of wideout makes him a natural receiver out of the backfield. Overall, he’s had a solid camp and is providing plenty of competition for fellow junior Phillip Lindsay, who entered camp atop the depth chart.
“I think I’m doing OK so far,” Lee said. “I think I’ve found a home playing running back. I have a lot to improve on, but I’m doing better in getting into the flow of the offense and improving my weaknesses and strengths.”
… Continue reading story here …
—
… Related … “Phillip Lindsay ready to become featured back for CU Buffs” … from the Daily Camera
… Of note from the article … When healthy, Michael Adkins has been CU’s best running back the past two years, but his health has been a concern. He injured his hamstring on his first carry of the third game last season and sat the rest of the year. He was in and out of practice throughout the spring and has yet to practice this week because of an injury.
—
Practice Tidbits … from CUBuffs.com … Two players who have seemingly made plays every day in camp were at it again on Tuesday, as safety Tedric Thompson and wide receiver Juwann Winfree both had big plays in individual and 11-on-11 drills. … Quarterback Sefo Liufau and Shay Fields have picked up where they left off last season. Liufau connected with Fields on a perfect out route in an 11-on-11 drill, with Fields making the catch just short of the sidelines, prompting Fields to deliver a “Great pass, Sefo” as he returned to the middle of the field. … Some great battles continue to unfold every day when the No. 1 offense and defense square off. Tuesday’s battles up front between the big guys on both sides of the line were particularly intense, especially in the goal-line situations. To no one’s surprise, nose tackle Josh Tupou is proving to be a beast in the interior. … Wide receiver Jay MacIntyre had a beautiful diving grab of a Liufau pass in the corner of the end zone. … Tight end Sean Irwin continues to be a solid presence in the running game. … Afolabi Laguda, who is getting lots of playing time at nickelback and safety, showed some nice awareness in traffic and picked off a pass. … Ahkello Witherspoon continues to have a good camp at cornerback. … Redshirt freshman running back Dino Gordon, involved in an off-the-field incident in the spring, has begun practicing with the team again, but still has some items to complete for full reinstatement. MacIntyre said he would decide Gordon’s length of games suspension once he has completed the process necessary for reinstatement. … Ronnie Blackmon is the latest of the freshman class to turn heads, producing some solid moments in Tuesday’s individual pass cover drills.
—–
August 9th
Legacy Brick arrives!
My replica Legacy Brick arrived in the mail today …
… and has already found its way into my office!
—
Mike MacIntyre interview with San Diego radio station
A seven minute interview, the link to which can be found here
MacIntyre: “We’ve made good strides, but we need to make great strides …”.
—
Mike MacIntyre post-practice comments to the media
YouTube video courtesy of CUSportsNation.com
—
“Leavitt, Buffs Know Expectations Up For Defense”
From CUBUffs.com … Leavitt quotes:
… “As a D-coordinator or head coach, I’ve always built programs with defense,” said Leavitt, who played a major role in Kansas State’s turnaround in the early 1990s before going on to build a competitive program from scratch at South Florida. “You want playmakers on both sides of the ball and the kicking game has to be great. You’d better have a quarterback that can play. But my philosophy has always been to build from defense.”
… “We should be better, but we haven’t played a down,” Leavitt said. “We’ve got a lot of work to do. We have to get better every day. Schematically, we’re working on some things. We want to put our guys in position to make plays, but they have to be willing to put in the work. We’ve got a lot to accomplish before we even think about playing a game.”
… “It all starts with the guys up front,” Leavitt said. “If your guys up front aren’t real good, you’re not going to be real successful. Tupou definitely helps us, but all of them have gotten bigger and stronger. We’ve got a chance there.”
— “We should be better (at linebacker),” Leavitt said. “We’ll have to go out and see how we play this year to see whether it’s a strength or not. Gamboa’s a good football player, Kenneth’s a good football player, Addison’s a good football player. Drew, he’s a heady ballplayer with some length and he can run. We’ll see what they can do when we get pads on.”
—
Ahkello Witherspoon and Isaiah Oliver both likely to see playing time at corner this fall
From CUBuffs.com … In their base 3-4 defense, the Buffs line up with two cornerbacks. One of those spots will be manned by senior Chidobe Awuzie, a national award contender and preseason second-team all-Pac-12 pick.
The other corner, meanwhile, is producing a great battle between senior Ahkello Witherspoon and sophomore Isaiah Oliver.
Technically, one will likely emerge as the starter on the depth chart. But the reality is that both will see plenty of playing time as the Buffs face the multitude of spread offenses so prevalent in the Pac-12, which means lining up in something other than their base 3-4. Awuzie will no doubt still see time at nickel, putting Witherspoon and Oliver on the field at the same time.
“It’s a good battle between them,” MacIntyre said. “They’ll be on the field together a lot with as many spread teams as we play. We need them both to be ready every game and they also help on special teams.”
… “Ahkello needs to just keep growing,” MacIntyre said. “He’s an excellent player. His competitive level has kept increasing every year he’s been here. I’m looking forward to him having a good year. I think he can be a dominant, dominant player.”
… “I’m pleased with both of those guys,” MacIntyre said. “Watching them run this summer when they were doing their running and conditioning tests, those two guys were always in the top guys. Not because they’re fast, but they were in shape and in condition.”
… Continue reading story here …
–
—
Jordan Carrell glad to have additional support along the defensive line this fall
From the Daily Camera … Jordan Carrell is excited to see the difference it makes not only in his game, but in how the Buffs perform as a unit.
I’m still ready to play as much as they need me to play,” he said. “As a starter, I don’t want to come off the field, but if I feel tired, I’m not going to be afraid to let the next man go up because I know there’s not going to be a drop-off. There’s going to be just as good.
“We have way much more depth than last year. Everybody is stronger and we’re in better shape. This offseason was a lot of help for us. We bonded as a whole, so it’s going to be a big change this year. It should be a good year for us up front.”
… Continue reading story here …
–
—–
August 8th
Jim Leavitt tweet of the day: “The Voice is gone. Always happens during camp. Have to learn Discipline. Play with great Effort and Focus. Accountability to each other!”
—
“Quarterback Steven Montez trimming fat from game” … from the Daily Camera
—
Mike MacIntyre post-practice talk with media
YouTube video courtesy of CUSportsNation.com
—
Sean Irwin and George Frazier are “two of the better players on our football team”
From CUBuffs.com … On a football team being touted as the most experienced in the Pac-12 Conference, Colorado’s tight ends/H-backs are a hand-in-glove fit with that description.
How big a factor is experience? Even if it doesn’t singlehandedly win games it more often than not can be a huge factor in not letting them slip away. Or so the Buffs hope.
The top two players at tight end/H-back – interwoven, intricately connected positions – are a senior (Sean Irwin) and a junior (George Frazier) who share five letters, head-turning talent, and loads of in-the-trenches know how.
Ironically, the position’s least experienced hand – in recent involvement anyway – is the guy charged with coaching it. But that’s nowhere close to being a negative.
… Continue reading story here …
August 7th
Derek McCartney: “Big guys just have to work harder”
From the Daily Camera … Seemingly anyone who has been even remotely involved with the University of Colorado football program over the past 30 years can relate at least one Bill McCartney story.
As the grandson of the legendary coach, Derek McCartney obviously is no exception.
Now a junior outside linebacker poised to build on a breakout 2015 season, the younger McCartney always harkens back to two specific bits of advice when he considers his grandfather’s influence on his still-blossoming athletic career. Perhaps not surprisingly, the wisdom in question centers around mantras of hard work and leadership.
“When I was growing up, he always said big guys have to work harder,” said the 6-foot-3, 250-pound linebacker. “He said, ‘You’ll never meet a small guy that doesn’t want to be big.’ When you’re big you have to pay the price. He said it’s easier for little guys running around. Big guys just have to work harder.
“The second thing, and recently he says this all the time and I find it to be more and more true as I keep living life, he says everything rises and falls on leadership. Every church, every home, every business, he says that all the time. He tries to encourage me with that, which is really cool.”
… Continue reading story here …
—
“Addison Gillam, Jeromy Irwin ready to resume starring roles for CU Buffs”
From the Daily Camera … The home opener for the Colorado Buffaloes football team last fall should have been a glorious occasion.
And, in many ways, it was. Under a bright sky and a perfectly picturesque Boulder setting, the Buffs put together what arguably turned out to be their most complete performance of the 2015 campaign, amassing their best single-game rushing performance in 13 years (390 yards) while dominating the second half in a 48-14 thrashing of UMass.
It was, however, a costly victory.
Middle linebacker Addison Gillam and left tackle Jeromy Irwin both limped off the field that day with knee injuries that kept them sidelined the remainder of the season. Though both players missed spring practice while focusing on rehabilitation, both are back on the field for preseason workouts and ready to reclaim their starting roles.
… Continue reading story here …
—–
August 6th
Jim Leavitt tweet of the day: “In Life Never, and I mean never underestimate what you can do! Tell a great story! Go Buffs!”
—
Buffs first practice in “shells”: “I saw energy throughout the whole thing”
From CUBuffs.com … Cool temperatures greeted the Colorado Buffaloes for their third straight day of fall camp on Saturday, as the Buffs hit the field for the first time in pads.
The Buffs weren’t in full pads (that won’t come until Tuesday) but they were in “shells” — shoulder pads and helmets — meaning they got their first taste of contact. Head coach Mike MacIntyre said he liked what he saw, and it was obvious that players were excited to actually engage in some contact.
“It was a great day,” MacIntyre said. “They flew around. I thought the guys had a good practice in pads. I saw energy throughout the whole thing and I saw guys getting after it and competing.”
Saturday’s practice lasted roughly three hours, with plenty of individual drills as well as 11-on-11 and 7-on-7 sessions. For the third straight day, the Buffs got some red zone work in, and also began to incorporate some two-minute drills into their workload.
Mike MacIntyre post-practice comments, discussing Bryce Bobo playing both wide receiver and defensive back … comments on Juwann Winfree and Tedric Thompson.
… Continue reading story here …
YouTube video of Mike MacIntyre’s post-practice comments, courtesy of CUSportsNation.com:
—
More articles from Media Day:
— “Buffs Making Red Zone Early Priority” … from CUBuffs.com
— “CU Buffs hoping wealth of experience helps end bowl drought” … from the Daily Camera
—
August 5th – 64th annual CU media day
… Nice tweet from defensive coordinator Jim Leavitt … “After many Pepsi’s and much film I can tell you we have a shot. Encouraged by the focus. Must add more discipline. Now FB-pads on tomorrow!”
—
Articles:
— “After overcoming injury and adversity, Sefo Liufau ready to lead Buffs” … from the Daily Camera
— “MacIntyre: Buffs Have ‘Chip On Their Shoulder’ ” … from CUBuffs.com
— “Josh Tupou excited to be back with CU Buffs” … from the Daily Camera
—
Mike MacIntyre Media Day press conference
A link to the video of the Mike MacIntyre press conference can be found here
Here is the transcript, from CUBuffs.com
Opening Statement
“First of all, there are two people that are dear to me that have passed away. Charlie Whitaker who has been a Buff fan for years passed away of pancreatic cancer a week ago. He worked all of our practices, you might have seen him when you came out there; he always had a great smile. He is looking down on us now. My first couple years here Tom Kensler was our beat guy. You meet a lot of people in my business, but as I heard people talk about him— it was very true and as I talked with him and met with him – I was always telling my wife he was such a genuine person. He told it like it was, he was a true journalist but he always had a great heart. I know Tom’s burial is tomorrow I believe and I just wanted to make sure we sent out condolences to their families and tell them how much I appreciated them.
Let’s talk about football. We have had two days of practice and it’s gone well. You know we are just running around in what I call pajamas; it’s not really real football yet. So they are having a good time doing that and then tomorrow we will put on shoulder pads and helmets. We have a lot of returning football players that are extremely hungry to be successful. You see that helps in practice that helps in their enthusiasm, also in their ability to listen and have intensity in meetings. All of those type of things are the focus you need to be a good football team. So I see that sense of intensity and focus that in younger teams you always have to get them going and in an older team you don’t really have to do that when they’re doing it right. We have excellent leadership on our football team and we’re excited about our next day of practice tomorrow.”
On Sefo Liufau‘s Recovery This Offseason
“I talked to the trainers every day about all of our guys, but Sefo was always on the list. He was making all of the benchmarks of how that progresses. This is the seventh one I’ve gone through as a head coach. I don’t remember a Lisfranc [injury] back when I played. It’s a new injury type in a way. Maybe it was just a broken foot then and didn’t know how to fix it. Everybody I’ve dealt with have all had different scenarios. The good thing about it is he had one pin go in; it was a clean break. When you have two pins go in, I’ve had problems with those guys being able to get back on time. He’s made all of his benchmarks and done everything he’s been asked. He even trimmed down some more. He lost a little more body weight and gained a little more muscle. He’s taken advantage of the situation. We’ve had no issues so far, but I need to knock on wood for sure.”
On Impact Of Sefo’s Return
“They elected him a captain again; that was very impressive. He’s a three-year captain, that’s only been done twice in history and the last time was 1893. That’s huge. I think that answers the leadership side of it. On the football side of it, he’s broken 75 records and he’ll break about 15 or 20 more this year. Our football team has caught up with him. As the quarterback and the head coach you always take the brunt of everything and you always take all of the accolades too. All of the accolades aren’t all really yours and all of the brunt is not really yours. At the quarterback position and being a young man, he’s carried everybody on his shoulders, always battled, and has been a very, very physical player. He’s extremely mentally tough too. I look for him to have an excellent year. In his sophomore year, he threw the ball well. Last year, he was running the ball wall. He had a hurt his shoulder where he couldn’t throw all week and threw off his accuracy, even though he’s the most accurate passer in the history of this school. I think that this year he’ll put all it together and have a phenomenal and walk out of here the way he should with what he’s earned and the victories he needs to get. I’m excited to see him do it.”
On Putting It All Together
“I think it’s all a process and builds on top of everything. I’d like to go out and run a marathon tomorrow, but once I started running I’d break down after eight or nine miles. They built it in layers. Now they’re at the point where they believe they and see they can do it. It’s not only in their words, but it’s been in their actions more than it ever has before. I think when your words turn into actions, that’s when results happen more often, and that’s what I see.”
On Co-Offensive Coordinator Darrin Chiaverini
“Chev’ brings excellent leadership. When you first meet Chev’, you’ll see his passion about Colorado, but also see his passion about football. Football was extremely important to him as a young man. It’s given him the opportunities to be successful: playing pro football and now making a living coaching it. He also loves coaching receivers and the offensive side of the ball. He brings a great expertise in that area for us. The young men can see the passion he has for the University of Colorado. He brings three or four different things to the table for us.”
On Bowl Expectations
“I’ve heard that since the first year I got here. When you haven’t gone to a bowl game in a while, that’s always the first thing said. Our goal for our players is tomorrow’s practice. We want to win every game we play, we really do. I definitely feel like we have the opportunity to do that. Hopefully at the end of the year all of that will take care of itself.”
On Importance Of Opening Game For Momentum
“The opening game is always a lot of fun; there’s always a lot of hype for the opening game anywhere in the country. That’s always exciting, but when you play a rival in the very first game at a neutral site, it’s a unique experience and puts a little more hype and emotion on it. Playing that football game is a big deal. It’s one that our players hear about for 365 days a year. You don’t hear about every other game 365 days a year. That puts a little more of an emotional tie to the game than most games.”
On Development Of Offensive And Defensive Line
“Offensively, in 2014, we had the least amount of sacks in the Pac-12. Last year, we had the most sacks in the Pac-12. A lot of that was predicated to injuries. We had quite a few injuries, the most I’ve ever seen on the offensive line as a head coach. Vice versa, you look at Stanford the year before, they got a lot of guys hurt in 2014 and didn’t have quite as a good a year. Last year, they kept the same five offensive linemen the entire year and the continuity was big. We have Jeromy Irwin coming back who I think is an excellent, excellent player. He could never really get over 285 [pounds], which you really wanted him in the 300s. He’s now 308 and doing really well. All of the other guys have started multiple games which is good for us. They’ve all gotten stronger. We’ve also added Timmy Lynott into the mix who I think is an excellent player. I feel like our whole offensive line is very good and has a lot of experience. We still have to stay healthy though. We’ve got some young redshirt freshmen who I think are going to be really good players, but I hope we don’t have to throw them into the fire in the third game for the rest of the season like we did last year with a couple of those guys. I think our offensive line is going to be excellent with our first seven guys. Defensively, we are big, strong, physical and tough. We’re two-deep in the front. I’m excited about those guys. I think we average 6-3 and a half and 295 across the front. Our outside linebackers: Derek McCartney‘s now 250-something and six foot four and a half and Jimmie Gilbert‘s 240-something and six foot four and a half. We’re a big, intimidating front now. When we first got here that wasn’t the case. Upfront I think we’ve made the strides we need to make.”
On Senior Leadership
“They are definitely taking charge in a lot of different ways: in the meeting rooms, weight room and out on the field. They do a lot of talking that I don’t have to do anymore. That’s a good thing. It’s like when your kids get a little older; you don’t have to say no to him and they know what to do. I see that with these young men. At the same time, I think they do have a chip on their shoulder. You always hear that, but they really do and they’ve stuck with this program. That’s one of the things I noticed when I got here. Percentage-wise how many people had been bailing out of here since 2004 was unbelievable. These kids have stuck through it all. We have the highest APR in the history of the school, which is a big deal. We have the most juniors and seniors since 2001 and most ever returning starts [412]. We’ve built a team and that’s how you develop a program from the ashes. You get people to stay here to believe and compete and keep going. Hopefully they’ll rise out of the ashes this year.”
On Allocating Special Teams Responsibilities
“Full-time special teams coaches really just came into existence in college football probably 10 years ago. There are still quite a few teams that run their special teams by position coaches. We’ve broken it down within our team. We have coaches that have been special team coaches before on staff. We have coaches that have coached special teams in their careers a tremendous amount. It’s put more emphasis on each member of the staff. Now the staff is totally involved in it. Everybody helped before, but when you have more of a stake in it, you’re going to put more time into it and the players are going to be more committed. I’ve seen that already through spring and the first couple days that we’ve been here. We spread it around within our staff. We hired a quality control young man, Matt Thompson, who’s always been a kicking guru. He breaks down all the stuff for the special teams; he really understands kickers, punters, and long-snappers.”
On Selecting Captains
“I had everyone that’s been in our program a year or longer, and has played a full season was able to vote – none of the freshmen were voting they really don’t know all the guys; I didn’t want it to be a popularity contest. We set up criteria, the players did, for what they were looking for in a captain. It was open balloting, it wasn’t handing in a piece paper; it was a stand-up for who you vote for type of thing. It was interesting how they did it. It’s given those guys (the captains) a lot more teeth. Also, the young men that weren’t voted captain know what to learn and work on.”
On Raised Expectations
“We always want the expectations high. We play in the best conference in America, so the expectations are always high for us. The expectations at the University of Colorado are always high. There’s great history here and that’s something they know they step into. I also think it molds you as a person when expectations are set high in academics, in the social atmosphere in the way you have to behave, and also on the football field which is your job. If all of those expectations are high, then you’re making yourself into a diamond; it’s that pressure. If you can handle it when you’re 18 to 22 years old, you’re going to be able to handle a lot of other things when you get out of here in life. Our team embraces that pressure and we do too.”
On Personal Growth
“You’re always constantly evaluating yourself. Every year you want to improve in different areas. You never ever arrive, so you’re always tweaking. Every team is a little different, every year is a little different, and every situation is a little different. One of the things I’ve tried to improve on consistently is making sure I listen to the staff, hear all the input, making sure everybody knows they have open input, and then trying to figure out what’s best for the team. The other thing is making sure you have your team get closer and closer together, and there’s a lot of different ways to do that. Those are some of the things I’m working on to try to make sure we do better this year to help us in certain situations. If you ask my wife there’s a lot of things I need to improve on.”
On Coaching An Experienced Team
“As young men mature or anybody matures you can talk to them differently. They should be able to ‘go from eating soft food to solid food.’ The way you talk to them, the way you challenge them, the way they challenge each other, and the things that you demand out of them are at a higher stake. When you see them meet those demands, and reach that level, then you can go to the next level. If you don’t reach that level, then you can’t go to the next level. That’s what I’ve seen these guys be able to do. They’re excited about the year; they definitely believe they can do certain things. Now, you’ve got to turn words into action and that’s what they want to do.”
On The Defense And Chidobe Awuzie
“Our defense made a big jump last year, which I thought they would, because we had a lot of guys coming back. Now, we have all the same guys coming back and we add Josh Tupou and Addison Gillam back into the mix. I expect us to be really good on defense. Chido (Awuzie) is definitely a leader on defense, he’s what you would call a true playmaker on defense. People come up to me all the time and say, ‘golly, he’s all over the field.’ Well we put him all over the field and he also has the ability to make plays all over the field. He’s a key ingredient in our defense and we definitely build things around him depending how we play certain teams.”
On Team Having A Chip On Their Shoulder
“I sure hope so. That’s what I see. We need to see it on Saturdays when we show up, but it’s in their mindset for sure.”
On Depth
“We have good depth at running back. On the offensive line, we’ve got seven guys that have been through the battle that can do it. We have other young guys that are very talented and ready to go, but they haven’t been thrown out there in front of everybody yet. We have good depth at receiver, we have a lot of guys who have played a lot of ball there and made plays. On defense, there’s been quite a few guys on the defensive front that have started and played a lot, and their backups. At linebacker, we have the three returning (leading) tacklers from three years in row, they’re all back. There’s depth in that area. We also have Ryan Severson who is an excellent player, who plays special teams and can play either spot at linebacker. In our defensive backfield we’re able to move guys around. We have quite a few guys that have played from Tedric [Thompson], Ryan Moeller, Ahkello [Witherspoon], Chido [Awuzie],Isaiah Oliver, Afolabi [Laguda] and we can just keep mixing them. We’ll need a couple young DB’s to step up in there for special teams and if anybody goes down, but I feel very good in that area. Our field-goal kicker’s back. He was kicking well last year; he had a little problem on the left hash. He knows that, we know that, and we definitely feel like we fixed it. He’s had an excellent first two days and looks good. Our punter is back; he kept improving as the year went on last year and he’s got a powerful leg. At quarterback, behind Sefo [Luifau] we have Steven Montez and Jordan Gehrke battling for the backup spot. Steven (Montez) had a phenomenal spring. I think he has a huge upside, but we just need to see if he carries that on through fall camp. He’s big and athletic.”
On Receiver Becoming A Go-To Guy
“The guy that has done it in the games and has kept improving his body and working, would be Shay Fields. Shay Fields is an excellent player. We need him to stay healthy. Last year he was having a great year and he hurt an ankle on that long 78-yard touchdown play he made against Arizona. Shay Fieldsis a guy that I think can step up and be a top echelon Pac-12 wide receiver.”
On Areas Of Improvement
“You want to improve in every area. The area offensively that we weren’t as good in last year percentage-wise, was our ability to score touchdowns inside the 20. If we can get back to the same rate we were at in 2014 which I think we were around 64 percent or so, then – the way our offense is moving the ball – we will radically change the scoring difference. Scoring more touchdowns, and our field goal kicker being little bit higher percentage in that area, will make a huge difference in our team. Yesterday was our first practice and we went straight to the red zone. We need to keep working on it and keep getting more comfortable. You can’t give kids the sense of ‘you have to score in the red zone.’ You just practice it more. You know what defenses are going to do down there. You get your system down and you get comfortable. I think if you emphasize it, you get the results.”
On Incoming Freshman Contributions
“Well it’s too early to tell. I think all of them are very good athletes, they bring a lot to the table. You really don’t know until they get in pads, out there a few days and there’s these big men hitting them and beaten on them. How are they going to handle all of that? Some guys are able to handle that quicker, some guys need to redshirt and then all the sudden they pass up the guys that played earlier. It’s all a process. But it’s too early for me to say that. I won’t be able to tell you that until the week we are getting ready to play Colorado State and really after we have gone through a couple scrimmages and seeing how it all unfolds.
On Fourth Year QB Pressure
“Sefo [Liufau] can handle a lot. The thing that he has gotten really good at in games, is being able to change plays, see things, understand what is going on and you can tell him something right on the sidelines. You can even tell him something in a series, “Hey look for this,” and he can get it. When you are a young player all you are trying to do is get the snap, get it handed off, and get it thrown to the right guy. You don’t see the whole picture so you are kind of tunnel vision, now he can see everything. So we are able to do that with him during the course of a game, during the course of a series. He will even know if we call something that we have talked about during the week, “Hey if we call this, this is what they’re doing now we are seeing it” and he knows, “Okay, wow that’s why we’re calling it. I got it now.” So things like that he’s able to do. If you are in the Pros you could just tell him in the headset, “Here we go. They are doing what we talked about.” So it’s hard to do that as much in college because you don’t have anything to talk to them with, it’s all about signals. Sometimes you can call him over in between a play and tell him. But he is able to handle a lot and we expect him to and he does too. I don’t think you can really overload him, so to speak.”
On Sefo Liufau Making Plays At End Of Games
“Well number one we practice it quite a bit. Number two; the players around him have to make some plays. And number three, he just needs to stay within himself, not try and go, “I got to make this, I got to make that,” just stay within what’s happening and take what they give you and play ball. It’s kind of like to me, the three-point shooter that says, “I have to make the three point shot!” If he’s just playing in the flow of it and it’s in the system and boom he’s open it goes. So I think it is the same way with Sefo. Just get him in the flow, let him play and let him realize he doesn’t have to make the play to win the game. It will naturally happen within the offense. It might be his play to make, it might be a hand off to a running back, it might be a block that the left tackle makes picking up a blitz and he’s able to get it off, all of that goes together. So they all need to realize that every person is important in that situation, everybody under pressure has to preform, not just one guy. So I think he understands that but you don’t nitpick with him on it. You just set it all up, put him in the best situations to go and he’ll make more of his share.”
On Early Commitments
“It’s been a process. We have been out recruiting for basically three and a half years. So we have really three full classes in; three and a half full classes so to speak because everything was half way done when I got here and we just kind of scraped it up the first year. We got some good players that last spring, that last part, and in two and a half weeks of recruiting we got a couple few good players that we have all talked about in here that are pretty special guys. But I think the thing that has helped us out the most is that we revamped our recruiting office. When I first got here they didn’t have that. We didn’t have the resources for it and that’s what I wanted to do. Rick [George] and I talked about it in depth about 22 months ago and he got the resources and went out and raised it. He is a phenomenal fundraiser; he tremendously backs us and what we do. He understands it and he gets it. So when we revamped that we went from one person in that recruiting office to seven. It makes a big difference. Our coaches have also done a great job. The other side of it is, when the young men get here on this campus and they see this facility along with the most beautiful campus in America; it’s not me just saying that, it has been voted that a bunch of times. When they go down to see Pearl Street and enjoy all that, I think that kind of puts the icing on the cake. But when you walk into a $156 million football complex, that they have never seen anything like it before, also makes it special.”
—
2016 Media Guide posted
The 2016 Colorado Football Information Guide And Record Book has been posted at the CUBuffs.com website. If you consider yourself a Buff fanatic, Dave Plati’s annual creation is your bible – 548 pages of history, statistics, and fond memories.
It’s a shame that these aren’t in print form anymore, but they are available for all of us to peruse and enjoy.
Check out the 2016 Media Guide here
From CUBuffs.com … The 64th Annual University of Colorado Football/Olympic Sports Media Day will be held on Friday, August 5 in the Touchdown Club room (first floor) of the Dal Ward Athletic Center in Boulder. The team will start practice at about 7:00 a.m., but the first part is closed; it will open to the media around 7:30 a.m. Mike MacIntyre previews his fourth Buffalo team at 10:30, with player/assistant coach interviews in the 11:15-12:00 window and Olympic sport roundtables to follow; brunch/lunch will be served between 11:30 and 1:00 p.m.
The complete schedule for August 5:
7:00 a.m. Football Practice (7:00-9:00a), ^Walk-through (8:10-9:10p)
10:30 a.m. Mike MacIntyre Previews the 2016 Buffaloes (Dal Ward Athletic Center; Touchdown Club)
11:15 a.m. Football Player/Assistant Coach Interviews (Dal Ward Athletic Center; Touchdown Club)
12:00 p.m. Fall Olympic Sports Roundtables (Dal Ward Athletic Center; Touchdown Club)
12:00 Volleyball (Coach Jesse Mahoney; Cierra Simpson, Gabby Simpson, Joslyn Hayes)
12:20 Soccer (Coach Danny Sanchez; Kahlia Hogg, Morgan Stanton)
12:40 Cross Country (Coach Mark Wetmore; athletes TBA)
11:30 a.m. Media Lunch (to 1:00; Dal Ward Athletic Center; Touchdown Club)
—–
August 4th
Buffs Notes: Battles brewing at inside linebacker; wide receiver
From CUBuffs.com … Want an indication of just how competitive the battle at inside linebacker will be in the Colorado Buffaloes’ camp this fall?
Figure this: three different players have led the Buffs in tackles the last three seasons, and all three are vying for playing time at inside linebacker for CU this fall — the first time in Colorado history that the same team has featured three different season leaders in tackles.
The trio consists of junior Addison Gillam (team-leading 119 tackles in 2013), senior Kenneth Olugbode(83 in 2014) and sophomore Rick Gamboa (96 in 2015). Now throw highly touted junior college transfer Drew Lewis into the mix, and you have a wealth of depth on the inside this season.
“We all push each other, and that’s the best part,” Olugbode said. “It’s great competition. It’s always good to push yourself to the limits.”
… Continue reading story here …
—
Personnel news … N.J. Falo coming back – Tyler Henington and Ca’Ron Baham decide not to report
From the Daily Camera … The Colorado football team has a lot of work to do between now and the Sept. 2 season opener against Colorado State, but head coach Mike MacIntyre came away from Thursday’s first practice feeling good about the Buffaloes’ start.
“I thought it went well,” MacIntyre said. “We got out here and got going early. I thought it went well. No one got injured, so that went well.”
Defensive lineman Samson Kafovalu and outside linebacker N.J. Falo returned to practice, as well. Both were suspended for off-the-field incidents this spring. While he can practice, Falo will sit out the first three games as part of his discipline.
Running back Dino Gordon remains suspended, but the Buffs are hoping he’ll return soon.
The Buffs did open camp without two players they thought they’d have on board. Senior defensive end Tyler Henington, who has missed the last two seasons with injuries, decided to end his comeback attempt and will not play for the Buffs again. True freshman defensive back Ca’Ron Baham, who signed with the Buffs in February, decided to leave the team and return home to Louisiana.
… Continue reading story here …
—
Buffs, Liufau Hit Ground Running For First Practice Of Fall Camp
From CUBuffs.com … The Colorado Buffaloes hit the field running at 7 a.m. sharp Thursday morning for their first practice of fall camp — and didn’t stop moving until practice was over.
That included quarterback Sefo Liufau, whose recovery from a Lisfranc foot injury that sidelined him for the entire spring appears to be complete.
Actually, the Buffs did take a break here and there to rehydrate. But with some (relatively) cool temperatures greeting them for their inaugural camp workout, it quickly became clear that a rapid pace — on both sides of the ball — will be a priority this fall.
“We’re in good condition,” said head coach Mike MacIntyre, who is entering his fourth fall with the Buffs. “There wasn’t anybody falling over out here today. But as we go through camp, hopefully we won’t break down and it will pick up more and more as it goes — especially when you put on the pads.”
If there was any doubt about how the Buffs would greet their first day of fall work, defensive coordinator Jim Leavitt made sure to remind the veterans and inform the newcomers of how players should hit the field.
“Let’s go, let’s go, we’re running those first 30 yards,” Leavitt called as players entered the gate to the field. “Nobody walks, we’re running. Let’s go, let’s go, let’s go.”
… Continue reading story here …
—
Mike MacIntyre: post-practice comments
Here is the YouTube video of Mike MacIntyre, courtesy of SportsNation.com:
—–
August 3rd – First Day of Fall Camp!
… Related … “CU Buffs enter camp with positive attitude” … from the Daily Camera
—
Rick George and Mike MacIntyre welcome 105 players to start of Fall Camp
From CUBuffs.com … Colorado football coach Mike MacIntyre welcomed 105 players to the opening day of fall camp Wednesday, with the first practice of camp set for Thursday morning.
The group included veterans, incoming freshmen and transfers, and invited walk-ons as MacIntyre gears for his fourth season at the Buffs’ helm.
CU Athletic Director Rick George spoke to players at their first meeting of the day, saying, “I’m excited about this group. What I like about this team is what I’ve seen this summer … You have the chance to accomplish great things.”
The team also heard from Boulder Police Chief Greg Testa, CU Police Chief Melissa Zak and Boulder District Attorney Stan Garnett, as well as John Aitken of the CU Office of Student Conduct, Valerie Simons of the CU Office of Institutional Equity and Compliance and David Plati of CU Sports Information.
Along with hearing from the various officials, the team watched an NFL-produced video on how to work and cooperate with the media that the Broncos graciously allow Plati to show the Buffaloes annually.
This will be the first year the team has had the use of the entire Champions Center for all of fall camp. Last year, the Buffs moved into the new building midway through camp, but did not have access to the indoor practice facility until spring ball.
The availability of the IPF means that practices that were once cut short because of lightning in the area — a normal occurrence in August — can now simply be moved indoors and the team will not lose any practice time.
The Buffs will hit the field for the first time Thursday morning with a 7 a.m. practice. There are four days of two-a-day practices scheduled — Aug. 10, 12, 15 and 17 — with the first day in pads scheduled Tuesday, Aug. 9.
The team’s annual Media Day will be Friday, when CU will also host Media Day for the Buffs’ fall Olympic sports: cross country, soccer and volleyball.
Three fall camp football practices will be open to the public and media: Friday, Saturday and Aug. 13. Friday’s practice will open up to the public at 7:30 a.m. and Saturday’s at 9:45 a.m., about half an hour into each session. A scrimmage is tentatively scheduled for the Aug. 13 practice, scheduled to begin at 9:05 a.m. Otherwise, practices are closed.
… Continue reading story here …
—
Samson Kafovalu reinstated
… Good news for Samson, and the Buff Nation! …
From the Daily Camera … University of Colorado defensive lineman Samson Kafovalu was reinstated for the Buffs’ first day of practice Thursday after pleading guilty to one count of obstructing a police officer.
Kafovalu, 22, pleaded guilty to the charge in April and was given a 10-day suspended jail sentence, which he will not serve if he completes the terms of his sentence and does not pick up any new charges in the next year.
He also was ordered to complete 40 hours of community service by the end of this week, pay $35 in fines and complete alcohol treatment.
Kafovalu was arrested in April after bouncers at the Sundown Saloon on the Pearl Street Mall called police after a heavily intoxicated Kafovalu was denied entry into the bar and was being uncooperative, according to officials.
… Nu’umoto “N.J.” Falo, 19, and Donald “Dino” Gordon, 20, both pleaded guilty to one count of second-degree burglary, a Class 4 felony, last month and remain suspended from the team.
—
Updated schedule … including practices open to the public (in bold)
Calendar (Times subject to change, sometimes with minimal notice):
AUGUST 3— Players Report (by 7:30 a.m.; compliance meeting, presentations/summer school/photos/dinner, team meeting) NO INTERVIEWS
AUGUST 4— Meetings (6:20a), Practice #1 (7:00-9:00a), ^Walk-through (8:10-9:10p)
AUGUST 5— Meetings (6:20a), Practice #2 (7:00-9:00a), ^Walk-through (8:10-9:10p) – FOOTBALL/OLYMPIC SPORTS MEDIA DAY Media Day Schedule (a.m.): MacIntyre 10:30; Assistant Coaches 11:15; Players 11:15 / Olympic Sports 12:00-1:00 / Lunch (11:30-1:00)
AUGUST 6— Meetings (8:30a), Practice #3 (9:15-11:55a), ^Walk-through (8:10-9:10p)
AUGUST 7— Team day off (brunch, rehab, dinner) NO INTERVIEWS
AUGUST 8— Meetings (8:30a), Practice #4 (9:15-11:55a), ^Walk-through (8:10-9:10p)
AUGUST 9— Meetings (8:30a), Practice #5* (9:15-11:55a), ^Walk-through (8:10-9:10p) – First Day In Pads
AUGUST 10— Two-A-Days /Meetings (8:30a), Practice #6 (9:20-11:30a), Practice #7 (7:30-9:00p)
AUGUST 11— Meetings (8:30a), Practice #8* (9:15-11:55a), ^Walk-through (8:10-9:10p)
AUGUST 12— Two-A-Days /Meetings (8:30a), Practice #9 (9:20-11:30a), Practice #10 (7:30-9:00p)
AUGUST 13— Meetings (8:40a), Practice #11* (9:05-11:45a), ^Walk-through (8:10-9:10p) – Scrimmage; Down Syndrome Camp (p.m.)
AUGUST 14— Team day off (brunch, rehab, dinner) NO INTERVIEWS Frosh Move Into Dorms
AUGUST 15— Two-A-Days /Meetings (8:30a), Practice #12 (9:20-11:30a), Practice #13 (7:30-9:00p) – P12N Visit (show airs at 10 p.m. MDT)
AUGUST 16— Meetings (8:30a), Practice #14* (9:05-11:45a), ^Walk-through (8:10-9:10p)
AUGUST 17— Two-A-Days /Meetings (8:30a), Practice #15 (9:20-12:00p), Practice #16 (7:30-9:00p)
AUGUST 18— Meetings (8:30a), Practice #17* (9:05-11:45a), ^Walk-through (8:00-9:00p) – Welcome CU Frosh Event (Folsom Field)
AUGUST 19— Academic Meetings, Football Meetings (3:50p), Practice #18 (6:00-8:40p) NO INTERVIEWS BC KICKOFF LUNCHEON (11:30, Fieldhouse)
AUGUST 20— Meetings (9:30a), Practice #19* (10:05a-11:45a)
AUGUST 21— Team day off (brunch, rehab, dinner) NO INTERVIEWS AD WELCOME BACK PICNIC (Private)
AUGUST 22— Meetings (7:00a), Practice #20 (8:30-TBA) – FIRST DAY OF CLASSES
AUGUST 23— Meetings (7:00a), Practice #21 (8:30-TBA)
AUGUST 24— Meetings (7:00a), Practice #22 (8:30-TBA)
AUGUST 25— Meetings (7:00a), Practice #23 (8:30-TBA) MacINTYRE KOA RADIO SHOW (Fate Brewery; 12:30-1:30 p.m.)
AUGUST 26— Meetings (7:00a), Practice #24 (8:30-TBA)
AUGUST 27— Meetings (7:00a), Practice #25 (8:30-TBA)
AUGUST 28— No practice (mandatory NCAA team day off) NO INTERVIEWS
AUGUST 29— Meetings (7:00a), Practice #26 (8:30-TBA) Game Week Prep Begins
AUGUST 30— Meetings (7:00a), Practice #27 (8:30-TBA) MacIntyre Media Luncheon (11:30a)
AUGUST 31— Meetings (7:00a), Practice #28 (8:30-TBA) NO INTERVIEWS
SEPTEMBER 1— Meetings, Practice #29 (TBA) NO INTERVIEWS
SEPTEMBER 2— FIRST GAME: CU vs. Colorado State (Sports Authority Field at Mile High, Denver; ESPN, 6:00 p.m. MDT)
First PEARL STREET STAMPEDE is Thursday, September 1 (7:00 p.m.). All practices will take place on the lower fields (weather permitting) until CSU game week to allow for new grass on Franklin Field to complete growth. *—practices scheduled in pads; ^—walkthroughs (all in IPF; no gear or balls permitted) do not count against practice maximum of 29 allowed in camp.
OPEN PRACTICES FOR PUBLIC & MEDIA (): August 5 & 6 (starting 30 minutes into session) & August 13.
—–
August 2nd … One month to kickoff of the 2016 season!!
Phillip Lindsay: “Now it’s time for us to come together as a team”
From CUBuffs.com … Phillip Lindsay doesn’t just bubble with enthusiasm and intensity.
He fairly boils, overflowing with an energy that is almost palpable, a force field that envelops virtually everyone within his sphere. It is a personality that has made him a fan and media favorite, and one that also earned him the designation as a team captain for the 2016 Colorado Buffaloes, a honor bestowed upon him by his teammates earlier this summer.
There’s no doubt that Lindsay, a fourth-year junior running back, has earned his bones. He led the Buffs in rushing a year ago, finishing with 653 yards and six touchdowns on 26 carries. He tied for third-best on the team in receiving, grabbing 26 catches for 211 yards and a touchdown.
But those numbers, he says, are not important. As the Denver South prep product prepares for his fourth season in black and gold, Lindsay has one simple message.
It’s time to win.
“It’s definitely time,” Lindsay said Tuesday morning, one day before he and 104 of his teammates are scheduled to report for the opening of the Buffs’ 2016 fall camp. “A lot of us are older. We’ve been here a while. We’ve seen what it takes. Now it’s time for us to come together as a team, use each other, help each other and get wins. No more excuses, no more coming close. It’s time to win.”
… Continue reading story here …
—–
August 1st
Chidobe Awuzie – One of the top 25 players in the Pac-12
From ESPN … With the season quickly approaching, it’s time for our annual preseason countdown of the top 25 players in the Pac-12. The joy of this list is that we can project a little bit. Sometimes those projections pan out. Sometimes they don’t …
21. Chidobe Awuzie, CB, Colorado
While Awuzie might be underappreciated nationally, coaches in the Pac-12 know what he’s all about, which is why they named him to the second-team all-conference squad for 2015. How important is he to the Buffaloes? Between corner and nickel, he was on the field for 897 snaps and posted 90 tackles (78 solo). The Colorado coaches are also creative with the way they use him. He led the team with 13 tackles for a loss and also posted four sacks to go with a pair of interceptions.
—
Neill Woelk: What to Watch for in Fall Camp
A great primer by Neill Woelk at CUBUffs.com, breaking down the opening of Mike MacIntyre’s fourth season by fours:
… FOUR OFFENSIVE COACHING CHANGES:
… FOUR PLAYERS UPON WHOM BUFFS’ FORTUNES WILL RIDE
… FOUR PLAYERS UNDER THE RADAR (FOR NOW)
… FOUR PLAYERS WITH BREAKOUT POTENTIAL
… FOUR POSITION BATTLES TO WATCH
… FOUR AREAS OF PRIORITY
… FOUR FRESHMEN TO WATCH
… FOUR KEY GAMES
… A must read for all Buff fans …
—–
19 Replies to “Fall Camp Notes”
Hang in there Juwann! Our prayers are with you.
Ok I came on here because the comments are closed on the Bozo.. oops.. Bobo keeping his QB a secret. It is because Bobo knows…. he has an inferior product this year and has to resort to trickeration. It wont work, The Buffs are
an all around better team and should/will be pumped to start their 6 win goal.
so
The link below is a poll Best receiver in in the DFW Metro plex.
Buffs have 3 commits
Jaylon Jackson – Cedar Hill
Chris Miller – Denton
Laviska Shenault – DeSoto
Click on the link and vote. Then go to the bottom and click return to poll.
Vote or them often. The goal is to get them into the top 3
Do your part.
http://vype.com/dallas/2016/08/17/top-wr-in-dfw-poll/
Went to the scrimmage.
Special teams was just fine. Excellent kicking. Diego has it figured out. Booms jets.
Defense looks real good in all areas. And there is some very nice depth. They have been coached well individually and as a unit. Very impressive. Good coaching does that.
Dline is strong across the board. Linebackers are tough agile and fast. Impressive. DB’s look very good, but past the 2 deep it is a bit suspect. Got burned a couple of times.
The 5 new receivers all look outstanding.
RB’s were Okay. Dino was back. Quick dude. I like him.
Oline was discombobulated. But at the same time there was some good stuff. Although they would have given up about 7 sacks if it was a real game. A lot of that had to do with the defense though. Run blocking needs work. Kelley still sent those worm burners back to the qb’s and the holder. Just shocking. That hurt plays before they even started last year. Dang it.
Rakestraw, Huntley, Ento, Winfree, Julmisse. Julmisse is a monster on either side of the ball.
Sefo looked like he has missed a year. Gehrke still looks like himself. Montez looked okay. Got dinged up. IMVHO best qb on the field was Noyer.
Now about that offense. I am really hoping it was a vanilla offense that was shown today. Looked a lot like the Lindgren offense of the past. If this is the real offense they are going to use, then it is the same as last year and I am “seeing no frigging bowl game.”
I can only hope this is not what we are gonna see offensively from this team during the season from a play design and play calling standpoint. The pac d-coordinators will eat this O alive has they did last year. It is a lindgrening effect.
Go Buffs
So far yours is the only eyewitness report. Stuart can be excused of course because he is living in what Colorado may have looked like 30 or 40 years ago.
Lots of cal plates in the 4 corners this summer. If there is a reverse grapes of wrath brewing I may have to join Stuart. So far Howell has only posted the Mac interview and he always seems reluctant to offer an opinion.
Your report on the O pretty much substantiates my documented fears. Last year it was also O 101 the theory being dont show CSU anything but there wasnt anything else to show anyway.
How much influence is Chev being allowed? Did lingering save Mac from drowning in the past? Lets hope he doesnt drown in Lingering
glad to hear Noyer looked good. Sounds like we may be set at QB for the next several years with Montez, Noyer, and the new recruit (Lytle?) and I dont want to see if the third time is the charm with another Webb
also allow me to express my appreciation for getting a later tee time…or did you do 9 at daybreak?
Rob, lets not forget Osling the lll. I will be attending his game this Friday here in my home town. Can’t wait. Saw Noyers last year in Oregon. Kind of fun.
Thank for the honest assessment VK. Your take is always appreciated. This season has such promise. Another 4-7 year will be devestating . 3 weeks to Buffaloe up!
Whie I appreciate your efforts, If there was anything that was being reported before, during and AFTER the scrimmage, it was that the “O” being run was VERY VANILLA. How did you miss that and fail to temper your expectations and report accordingly? OL was affected by sit-outs due to illness and injury, please report that too! The key issue is whether the OL is bigger and stronger, not that they run a vanilla “O” better at this stage of camp. I also think “wormburner” is “burned” into your psyche. Others have reported that deep snaps have been good for the most part; yet the occasional one sears itself into your memory as a generalization. So, first scrimmage in almost a year, and Sefo looks rusty? I could die from “not surprised”. In general, a “D” should run better earlier in camp than the “O” whether you’re UM, Bama or CU, as the “O” runs on timing, misdirection and surprise, while the “D” simply reacts, especially to simple plays they have seen a hundred times before!
AZ??
I think it is him ep.
Nope! Not AZ. I’m much younger and a whole lot better looking than AZ!
It’s nice having an “outside eye” keeping track of things only a fan notices….and, especially since the bz dropped comments. We have missed the local pundit with 20/20 perspective. ha Thanks VK.
Oh. Is lingering calling the plays ?
love the account of the practice action. The only thing I read in there I didnt like that much was that Sean Irwin is a solid presence in the running game. Does that mean the coaches are going to ignore one of their weapons in the passing game again this year? Hopefully they are just lying in the weeds.
Still apprehensive about the O….and isnt all the O line. Even though Chev has the glorious title of Co OC I still hear lots of things that make me doubt the level of his allowed input.
Sounds like the red zone is a focus in practice. Hopefully its practice for the play calling too.
Chances are if the team fails to make a bowl again Mac may be riding Lindgren out of town. Even if chev isnt calling any plays hopefully he can go over Lindgren’s head to Mac when necessary
I heard a rumble in Boulder today! All of our boys got together to talk 2016 football. Mow the grass and preheat the grills let’s have some practice Tailgate doings. Grill some dogs and burgers and make up a bunch of Nacho’s. Get the cooler full your favorite beverages iced down and everyone let go a big old Buffalo snort. It is so close I can smell it in the air, COLORADO BUFFS football is just around the corner.
GO BUFFS!!
I tend to get excited about this time of year.
love to hear anything no matter how small about the players who stood out in summer drills
Hey Stuart, which days do we get to go watch?
None have been announced.
Two possibles … August 5th (media day) or August 16th (when the Pac-12 Networks will be in town for a visit)