What's Happening?
The BYU Cougars are set to face the Colorado Buffaloes in their Big 12 opener at Folsom Field in Boulder. Both teams are entering the game with significant player absences, particularly in their offensive lineups. BYU will be without their backup running back Sione Moa, while Colorado is missing their top two running backs, Simeon Price and DeKalon Taylor. The game marks BYU's first visit to Boulder since 1981. BYU coach Kalani Sitake has emphasized the improved talent of Colorado under coach Deion Sanders, despite the Buffaloes' mixed performance this season. Colorado has settled on Kaidon Salter as their quarterback, who has shown promise as a dual-threat player.
Why It's Important?
This matchup is significant as it marks the beginning of BYU's Big 12 play, a crucial step in their season. The game will test BYU's ability to adapt to player absences and exploit Colorado's defensive weaknesses. For Colorado, the game is an opportunity to demonstrate their growth under Coach Sanders and improve their standing after a challenging start to the season. The outcome could influence both teams' trajectories in the Big 12, impacting their chances for postseason play and recruitment prospects.
What's Next?
Following this game, both teams will continue their Big 12 schedules, with BYU looking to maintain their momentum and Colorado aiming to recover from early-season setbacks. The performance of key players like Kaidon Salter for Colorado and LJ Martin for BYU will be closely watched as indicators of each team's potential in the conference.
