Colorado’s defensive keys to the game against Nebraska
It is much easier to fix issues after a win instead of following a loss. The Colorado Buffaloes were able to win a high-scoring contest in Week 1 against TCU, but their defense will need to play better if they want to compete for bigger and better things this year.
The 2022 version of Colorado’s defense was historically bad and while the new-look D made enough plays to beat TCU, the Buffs will need to step up and take some of the pressure off the offense. That all starts on Saturday with the Buffs’ home opener against the Nebraska Cornhuskers
Here are my defensive keys to the game for Colorado:
It's time to dial up the pass rush
Colorado’s defense did not get a sack in the first game of the season and the Buffs may not get many opportunities against a Nebraska team that should run the ball plenty. But when the opportunities are there, they need to bring some heat on Huskers quarterback Jeff Sims. Sims is a QB that has thrown the ball into dangerous situations in the past and the best way to make sure that happens is to make him uncomfortable.
Contain the running game
The Buffs’ run defense was not good enough against TCU in Week 1. This is something that Nebraska will try and take advantage of to gain yardage and chew up the clock. Colorado can’t let this happen and must play a beefier front to keep Nebraska in third-and-long situations.
Avoid extended drives
When the Buffaloes’ defense does make it to third down, it needs to stop the Cornhuskers from converting. Nebraska’s best hope is to keep Colorado’s offense off the field. The best way to accomplish that is by converting third downs.
Keep getting the big plays
The Buffaloes’ defense came up with some huge plays last week as CU picked off the Horned Frogs twice in the red zone and nearly came up with a fumble as well. If the Buffs can create turnovers, it will be a long day for the Huskers at Folsom.
Steal the spotlight
Pride is a major aspect of football and Colorado’s defense will want to hold up its end of the bargain with the offense. After Shedeur Sanders and Dylan Edwards stole the show in Week 1, it’s time for the Buffs’ defense to steal some of the spotlight.
MORE
READ: Colorado’s offensive keys to the game against Nebraska
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