Colorado rushing attack rolls over UMass in 48-14 win

The Colorado Buffaloes came out of the gate wanting to prove a point against the Massachusetts Minutemen and did so emphaticallly with a 48-14 win on Saturday. Last year's contest in Boston was a shootout between Sefo Liufau and the Minutemen's Blake Frohnapfel that had CU scoring last in an ugly 41-38 victory. This year wouldn't be a repeat performance.

Buffaloes quarterback Sefo Liufau finished this game 15-24, with 168 yards and a touchdown. He left the game after being relieved by backup quarterback Jordan Gehrke with 13:16 left to go in the fourth quarter. Colorado's rushing attack was the highlight of the game, combining for 59 carries, 390 yards and 5 touchdowns on the ground against the Minuteman. Christian Powell joined Michael Adkins to rush for over 100 yards on the day. He finished with 8 carries, 105 yards and two touchdowns. It was the first time since 2010 that CU has multiple 100-yard rushers in a game.

Colorado's defense shut out Umass in the second half. The new look Jim Leavitt defense brought a more physical style that stepped up against the Minutemen. Derek McCartney, Leo Jackson and Justin Solis played well and kept Frohnapfel in check for most of the game. Defensive back Ryan Moeller had the play of the game by intercepting the ball at the goal line with 4:38 left in the second quarter. At that point, it helped swing the momentum in the Buffs favor with the score 24-14.  There were a few questionable calls against CU including a targeting call against defensive back Afolabi Laguda, who delivered a blow to UMass tight end Shari Custis. The play was reviewed and upheld; Laguda was ejected in the 2nd quarter.

The win was a big rebound for the Buffs, who didn't turn the ball over the entire game. The offensive line rebounded from the Hawaii performance and didn't allow Liufau to be sacked. The second game of the season for the Buffs couldn't have played out more perfectly. After the 28-20 road loss to open the season last week against the Rainbow Warriors the Buffs came back to Boulder and lit up the scoreboard in dominating fashion. The 48-point output was the most for an opening game at Folsom Field since September 11, 1999 against San Jose in 63-35 win. It was also the most points scored at home so far under MacIntyre's tenure at CU.

Up next for the Buffs is the much anticipated rivalry match up with the Colorado State Rams. The in-state game has lost some luster over the past couple years but still maintains relevance for both schools. The Rams will likely be favored heading into a Mile High Showdown that the Buffs have to win to regain supremacy in the state. One win down, plenty to go.