Preparing for its second season under head coach Deion Sanders and first in the Big 12, Colorado’s offense plans to make a statement with their improved scheme.
During the 71st annual fall sports media day, offensive players spoke about the offseason and changes to their attack. Tackles Jordan Seaton and Kahlil Benson as well as running backs Dallan Hayden and Micah Welch have high expectations for the unit.
Confidence has risen among players with a full offseason under offensive coordinator Pat Shurmur. Inside zone has been one of the featured concepts this fall.
“It’s balanced (the scheme),” Hayden said. “He’s an NFL guy who’s been at this a long time.”
Both running and passing will be weapons in comparison to last year. Running backs will also be heavily used out of the backfield and in 21 personnel. Hayden described his unique and versatile running style, hoping to be utilized.
“Downhill, north, south, outside and between the tackles,” Hayden said, keeping it blunt
The Buffs struggled to run inside the box last season. Working heavily with the offensive line the bonds have become strong. Connection is essential in any offense. Fall camp has strengthened the trust within the offensive line as well. An aggressive and fast O-line is needed to run Shurmur’s offense.
“Outside of here we are still hanging out together most of the time,” Benson said. “We're just trying to build our bond and make sure everyone is on the same page.”
Communication has been a heavy focus during this time. Passing off blockers and reaching second-level defenders will open holes. Their running backs recognize the effort.
“I’ll go to war with those guys,” Hayden said.
“We're coming to win the Big 12 championship and make it to the college football playoffs,” Welch added.
Equally as important is the relationship with the quarterback. Shedeur Sanders was sacked 52 times a year ago. If Sanders doesn’t stay upright the team will suffer.
“We gotta get the job done, keeping our quarterback clean,” Benson said. “Sticking to the basics, making sure everyone knows their assignment and where they're supposed to be.”
This offseason Benson has gotten close with his QB. Benson protects the front side during the pass and leads runs on the outside.
“We're best friends," Benson said. "It's good to have a quarterback you can hang out with all the time."
Practice has also been a chance for the offense to work out mistakes. With two-a-days and fall conditioning players must still focus on improving. Colorado’s NFL-heavy coaching staff has also helped the players.
“Having (defensive back) knowledge from Coach Prime," Seaton said. "It's gonna make me be able to play faster, play smarter and do my job."
Seaton has looked at the tilt and alignment to identify cornerback blitzes or when they are playing coverage. Seaton feels little details give him an advantage.
Newly added O-line coach Phil Loadholt has made an impact early. Being in the league recently, he offers modern professional knowledge to his group. Benson has a close relationship with Loadholt. Having a coach the players relate to makes them better.
“It's a lot of wisdom," Benson said. "You have to take the gems in."
The passing capabilities of Sanders are known and the expectation is he'll have more time in the pocket. Being able to consistently stretch the field will be important for the offense. The playmaking ability of the wide receiver core and backs will be crucial in Shurmur’s scheme.
“The stakes are high, but I feel like it's a good thing to have pressure,” Seaton said. “I love the pressure.”
With many eyes on Colorado, there will be plenty of it.
On Aug. 29, Colorado will host North Dakota State. Then, the players can prove their message. The offense is anxious and eager to kick off the season.
“Once we get on the field, we're gonna shut the haters up fast,” Benson said.
Cover photo by Roberto Patrick Gerra/Sko Buffs Sports
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