SALT LAKE CITY, UT – NOVEMBER 25: Ja’Quinden Jackson #3 of the Utah Utes rushes the ball against Amari McNeill #88 of the Colorado Buffaloes during the second half of their game at Rice Eccles Stadium on November 25, 2023 in Salt Lake City, Utah. (Photo by Chris Gardner/Getty Images)
Colorado football’s run defense lagged in 2023. The Buffs gave up 176.4 yards per game and had trouble getting offenses off the field. While the edge has certainly been shored up this offseason, what about the big boys at the heart of CU’s defense?
With the recent additions head coach Deion Sanders and his staff have made to the defensive tackle position, the Buffs have gotten much bigger and flaunt more depth than last year. Heading into last season, CU’s three-deep at both DT spots averaged about 288 pounds. The top seven DTs on the roster this year average 294 pounds, with three players checking in at over 300 pounds. That added beef inside should help shore up the run defense and allow coaches to rotate fresh bodies more often.
Here’s a breakdown of Colorado’s improved depth on the interior defensive line:
Starter: Shane Cokes
Nov 17, 2023; Pullman, Washington, USA; Colorado Buffaloes defensive lineman Shane Cokes (99) looks on during a game against the Washington State Cougars in the second half at Gesa Field at Martin Stadium. Washington State won 56-14. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-USA TODAY Sports
A returning leader of the defense, Shane Cokes quickly adapted to life in Boulder last year, becoming one of the first players to earn their number and solidifying himself as a locker room voice. Cokes saved his best for last as he racked up nine tackles in last season’s finale against Utah.
Starter: Chidozie Nwankwo
Nov 12, 2022; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Cougars defensive lineman Chidozie Nwankwo (10) tackles Temple Owls running back Edward…
Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/breaking-down-cu-buffs-depth-185618926.html
Author : Buffaloes Wire
Publish date : 2024-08-18 18:56:18
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