The Colorado Buffaloes defense faces a Kansas State offense dealing with quarterback injuries Saturday, with the Wildcats expected to lean on their running game at Folsom Field.
Starter Avery Johnson has been ruled out, while backup Jacob Knuth is doubtful. Those absences could put Erie native Blake Barnett in position for his first collegiate start as Colorado seeksto end a five-game losing streak.
The Buffaloes enter at 2-5 overall and 0-4 in Big 12 play. Kansas State is 4-3 overall and 1-3 in the Big 12.
Tale of the tape
Stopping the run must be a priority
Kansas State has averaged more than 200 rushing yards per game, giving the Wildcats an established way to support whichever quarterback starts.
Rodney Fields Jr. and Joe Jackson offer backfield options, while Colorado linebackers Gideon Lampron
and Liona Lefau face key run assignments. Limiting early-down gains would force a less experienced quarterback into long passing situations.
Colorado needs a better performance after Oklahoma State gained 598 yards. Defensive coordinator Chris Marve's unit also must avoid penalties that extend possessions and make it easier to assign a quarterback to Kansas State.
The Wildcats' injuries create uncertainty under center, but Colorado still has to control the line of scrimmage and prevent the rushing attack from sustaining drives.
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This article originally appeared on Buffaloes Wire: Colorado's defense faces a depleted Kansas State offense
