Texas Tech coach Joey McGuire is preparing for two Colorado quarterbacks this week, and he shared some interesting thoughts on how he sees the Buffaloes' offensive approach heading into Saturday's game at Folsom Field.
"We're expecting and preparing for both quarterbacks, but the offense really doesn't change that much," McGuire said. "The one thing about their OC [Brennan Marion] is that he has consistently found a way to run the football."
Colorado has started Julian Lewis in all four games, with Isaac Wilson replacing him after halftime in Saturday's 23-13 loss at Baylor. The quarterback decision will draw attention throughout the week, yet McGuire's comments point to the matchup Colorado must win: its run game against Texas Tech's front seven.
The Buffaloes average 156.5 rushing yards per game. Texas Tech allows 94.8 rushing yards per game, ranks 25th nationally in that category and has not allowed a rushing touchdown through four games.
The Go-Go offense presents a different look
McGuire credited Marion for creating additional gaps through personnel and formation. Colorado has used tight ends in the backfield, two-tight-end sets and varied running-back alignments during its first season in Marion's Go-Go offense.
"He does a lot of really good things as far as adding gaps to your box with a tight end in the backfield, with two tight ends in the backfield," McGuire said. "He's creative."
Micah Welch leads Colorado with 213 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 42 carries. JaQuail Smith has added 152 yards on 24 attempts, and Damian Henderson II has contributed 92 yards despite missing the Baylor game.
Texas Tech's safety test
McGuire said Texas Tech's safeties will have a major assignment after Colorado establishes its run looks.
"We've got to do a good job of coming out and stopping the run because that's what they want to do," McGuire said. "Then, you're going to get hard play-action passes."
Colorado returns home facing No. 12 Texas Tech at 5:30 p.m. MT Saturday, where the Red Raiders are heavy road favorites.
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This article originally appeared on Buffaloes Wire: Texas Tech's Joey McGuire pinpoints key to stopping Colorado's offense
