Alamo Bowl Preview: Colorado Buffaloes Injury Report

Questionable

QB Sam Noyer will be active tonight, but his sprained right shoulder may require offseason surgery. He hurt that shoulder on a tough tackle during the Utah game, but like Sefo Liufau before him, he is taking the field anyway. The Buffs plan on giving freshman Brendon Lewis some reps, so he could see more time if Noyer struggles throwing the ball.

OL Kary Kutsch is back from COVID-19, although there are usual questions about how the longer-term symptoms will affect his stamina. It’s good to have him back, as the original starting offensive line is in action.

Out

DE Terrance Lang has been conspicuously absent from team photos this week. He has been the Buffs’ third best defender this season, behind Nate Landman and Carson Wells, so this may have major implications.

NT Jalen Sami is also absent from many of the prep photos from the Buffs, so I would guess he and Lang are both out due to COVID issues. The underrated nose tackle is the pivot point in the Buffs’ run defense, so combined with Lang missing time, they may struggle stopping star running back Bijan Robinson.

CB Chris Miller is still out, as he suffered his third season-ending injury in three years.

LB Nate Landman ruptured his Achilles against the Utah Utes, so his Colorado career is very likely finished. His absence will be felt, as it was when the late Ty Jordan ran all over the Buffs.

TE Brady Russell suffered an ankle injury early in the season, and while the coaching staff considered having him play, they won’t risk further injury. The Buffs’ passing game has dearly missed his consistency as a blocker and receiver.

Opted Out

RB Ashaad Clayton decided to opt out after the game against Utah. It’s unclear if he will seek a transfer after being unhappy with his role in the offense.

WR Keith Miller III is also out of the game, but the freshman hasn’t played very much this season.

Suspended

WR Vontae Shenault has been suspended for breaking coronavirus containment. This is the second time he’s been suspended this season, missing the season opener due to a DUI arrest in July.