:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/3763375/20121117_jrc_ac4_113.0.jpg)
 1-10, (1-7)
NR (AP) NR (Coaches Poll) |
November 23rd, 2012 |
4-7, (2-6)
NR (AP) NR (Coaches Poll) |
Last year, the Buffaloes were able to knock off Utah on the road and ruin any hopes the Utes had of winning the Pac-12 South. Can the Buffs pull off another post-Thanksgiving upset?
Create a little Deja Vu
Here's a look at last years statistical comparison heading into the final game of the season at Utah. Looks a lot like this year's doesn't it? What looked to be a significantly stronger team fell at home to the Buffs, 17-14. Know what the spread for that game was? 22.5. Know what the spread for this game is? You guessed it. While the Utes aren't playing for a shot at a berth in the Pac-12 Championship game as they were last year after winning five of six games, this years version still desperately wants to end the season on a high note. This Colorado team can play the role of spoiler once again by finding a little bit of last years magic .
Don't allow John White IV or Reggie Dunn to beat the Buffs
In Utah's two conference wins, over California and Washington State, there were two big consistencies, John White going over 100 yards and Reggie Dunn returning at least one (and two against California) kickoff returns. The scores from both of those contests create the illusion of a high-powered Ute offense, but a dig into the box scores tells a different story. Quarterback Travis Wilson will struggle without the aid of a strong rushing attack from White and the Buffs defense can take advantage. The Colorado special teams is going to need a special effort to slow down Dunn, who has led Utah to a top-30 ranking in kickoff returns.
Build upon the Nick Hirschman - Donta Abron success
After a much-improved performance in the loss to the Wildcats, the Buffaloes offense took a major step back against the Huskies. Connor Wood could not get anything going and the Buffs created one of the ugliest box scores of the season. Now that Hirschman is back at the helm, the Buffs need to try and recreate some of the chemistry that they found the week before. With Christian Powell questionable with a concussion, Donta Abron should see his carries increase from the mere two he received last week. Hopefully he can make them count.
Protect Folsom Field
The last time the Colorado Buffaloes ended a season winless at Folsom Field was the late 1800's... in a season where there were a total of two home games. Home field advantage, especially when you add in the altitude that Colorado enjoys, is supposed to be worth something. It's supposed to allow for a little something extra from the players and coaches, bred from familiarity and emotion. Going winless at home and starting a new "streak" would be a terrible pill for fans of this program to swallow, and these Buffs need to rise up and protect the castle.
What are your keys to today's game?