First let’s take a good look at the strengths of this 2003 team.
On Defense with 8 returning starters the defense could be a tough unit this season. The defense really came together last season after switching to the new defense scheme. The new defense freed up the defensive lineman to make big plays last year. Witness first round draft pick Tyler Brayton as he lit up the filed and the locker room last year. The defensive line should be no less of a threat this year. Marques Harris and Gabe Nyenhuis book end a defensive line that should be the core of the Buffs defense this year. They combined for 8 sacks and 17 tackles for a loss last year. Look for those numbers to multiply as both characters are beginning to flourish under the new system.
In the secondary, the hits should be viscous this year. All 3 safeties are viscous, former Tackling and Toughness award winners. Brian Iwuh, Akarika Dawn, and Meford Moorer can all make opposing players woozy, and add in JJ Billingsley when we play dime and this unit gets ferocious. We will be strong at corner too, but these safeties will make up for any deficiency that may arise outside.
Looking at the offense, as has become a CU tradition we have another stable of runners waiting to be let free. Bobby Purify is ready to go as is Brian Calhoun the only back to gain more than 100 yards against OU last season. Look for Freshman Brandon Ceaser to become the third head on this monster. At receiver we have what could be our strongest team since Carruth and Westbrook played together in 94. Look for both McCoy and Donahoe to make solid cases for high draft slots if the QB can get them the ball. But this crew knows how to block too. They are key to the running game.
Barnett may claim that the kicking game is a weakness, but I know that is not so. Punter Torp’s average is 6 yards longer than Mariscal’s was. And we have 3 capable pks in camp, I think this is the first time we may have a capable kicker in camp since Voskeritchian left.
Any would be more than happy to play any of these skill players and when they team up I would look out for what you see.

Related posts:

  1. Team Weaknesses
  2. Rocky Mountain Showdown
  3. The Spring Game