The case for Steven Montez to remain the starter at quarterback for the Colorado Buffaloes

Colorado Buffaloes coach Mike MacIntyre was fired up during Saturday’s 28-0 loss vs. Washington State and his emotions could’ve gotten the best of him. In a game that didn’t play into CU’s favor from the start, it got worse with Mac’s meltdown on the sidelines toward a Pac-12 official. It didn’t end there with his frustrations with the offense leading him to hold off on announcing who will start at quarterback between Steven Montez and Sam Noyer.

While critiquing this past weekend MacIntyre said this was, “the worst offensive performance I think we’ve had since I’ve been the coach here.” Now he’s considering making a change at the quarterback position.

While Colorado has struggled on offense, Montez remains the most experienced quarterback on the roster and the better option overall. Noyer, a redshirt freshman, also struggled in his first true game action, going 7-of-18 for 53 yards. Like Montez, he was put into a bad situation and couldn’t orchestrate better results for the offense.

A change under center at this point in the season wouldn’t benefit CU’s potential postseason efforts. Noyer needs more time to develop. He should play the role of a solid backup with a quarterback like Montez in front of him. Both are still developing in the offense under co-coordinators Darrin Chiaverini and Brian Lindgren, who’ve relied on a run-heavy counter attack in the past four games. Montez has averaged a touchdown in every nine completions spanning over the past four games with no interceptions in 108 pass attempts.

The decision for MacIntyre should be simple.

Who gives the Buffaloes the best chance to win?

Montez. He understands the offense and has overcome a series of tough circumstances. As of right now, Noyer is unproven and when given the opportunity (in albeit, tough conditions) was unable to get the offense moving.

Will benching Montez at this point be detrimental?

Potentially. With a young quarterback like Montez the CU coaching staff needs to show their support by allowing him to play through adversity. Sefo Liufau had moments of doubt throughout his career and MacIntyre backed his play every time. Good or bad, Noyer taking the job means starting over.

What if Noyer starts and has a breakout game?

Anything is possible. Not to say Noyer couldn’t progress into a full-time starter at some point in his career. The Buffs need more consistency with the offense and there’s nothing indicating Noyer bring immediate stability at this point.

If Noyer gets the opportunity and fails will trust remain between Montez and the coaching staff?

Unclear at this point. Montez understands the needs for adjustments and is open to competing with Noyer. He’s a team player and would likely do what’s in the best interest of his teammates, even if that means being the backup.

Regardless of MacIntyre’s decision there needs be an overhaul with CU’s offense. The Buffaloes need to find an answer and build towards the future.