The Colorado Buffaloes’ offensive line received plenty of criticism during the offseason. They responded by allowing only one sack in their 31-26 victory over North Dakota State.
Going into the game protecting quarterback Shedeur Sanders was a key emphasis for the team. He was the most sacked QB in college football last season. Yet, Colorado followed a similar rhythm as last season, attempting to spread the ball to their athletes on the perimeter.
The Buffaloes started in tempo, following offensive coordinator Pat Shurmur’s opening script. This proved effective as they quickly went down the field and scored their first touchdown on offense. Sanders got rid of the ball fast, not giving defenders the chance to rush.
Although Colorado only had 59 rushing yards, it was the impressive air attack that led them to victory. Sanders aired it out for over 400 yards on 34 attempts. Three wide receiver/cornerback Travis Hunter touchdowns paired with 198 receiving yards from WR Jimmy Horn Jr., allowed the Buffs to earn a lead in the second half. With the offensive line providing the necessary time, Sanders and Hunter put on a clinic.
NDSU did its best to throw off Sanders’ timing. A multitude of blitzes, stunts and unique fronts kept the offense on their toes. It was often when NDSU sent pressure that its Cover 0 would be exploited by CU. They even tried to sneak in delayed blitzes from the secondary which did not prove effective.
On the left side, true freshman tackle Jordan Seaton was dominant in protection. He had great feet and perimeter vision. Seaton and left guard Justin Mayers communicated excellently to pass off loops and twists. Center Hank Zilinksas had his hands full with the various fronts but led the unit accordingly. On the right side, guard Khalil Benson also experienced a multitude of pressure. Working with Tyler Brown those men provided frontside protection.
The biggest difference between a year ago was the scheme awareness by the offensive line. Even though they lost reps individually, it was not a missed assignment that caused pressure on Sanders. The unit did a great job of getting to assignments, however, Sanders still received some large hits after his release.
The zone/run-pass option scheme was again dominant in Shurmur’s calls. The running backs only saw 14 carries between Dallan Hayden and Charlie Offerdahl. Due to success in the passing game, rushing yards weren't necessary for Colorado’s victory. The lack of running did, however, lead to NDSU dominating the time of possession. Ultimately it was mostly Sanders' choice to pull the ball and throw it.
NDSU’s reputation for physical football was well represented under the lights. They fought to the very end, giving Colorado all it could handle for four quarters. But, a quality opponent to open the season will be beneficial for the line in the long term. It is too early in the season to define the group but this unit will face much better pass rushes, giving them the opportunity to prove they are truly improved.
Without even seeing RB Micah Welch, the offense will have plenty to show for the remainder of the season. Traveling on the road against rivals in their next games, the Buffaloes will not have the luxury of home-field advantage. The communication will be heavily tested then.
Cover photo Talus Schreiber/Sko Buffs Sports
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