BOULDER, CO – Coming off a seven-game losing streak to end the 2018 season, it makes sense that fans are not convinced after the Buffs’ last week win against Colorado State. Saturday afternoon was Colorado’s first real test to figure out not only how effective the defense is, but how they can use their offensive weapons. After coming back to take their first lead in the 4th quarter, Colorado finished off the Cornhuskers on a James Stefanou 34-yard field goal in overtime.
From arguably the most electric offensive force in Laviska Shenault Jr to the 5th year Senior QB in Steven Montez, big plays are expected to happen. This wasn’t the case, however, for the entire first half as Colorado deflated and allowed a 17 point lead. Huskers QB, Adrian Martinez, had a nearly perfect half in terms of completion and passing yards.
Colorado fans and college football analysts have determined that the Buffs are filled with offensive talent. This was not apparent in the entire first half as the Buffs ran for -5 yards. Head Coach Mel Tucker’s half-time adjustments proved to be effective in the Colorado’s first-half possession. On third down and in their own territory, Colorado executed a flea-flicker from Montez to KD Nixon, for a 96-yard touchdown. This is the longest touchdown pass in Colorado history.
Nebraska immediately responded in their following possession with a 75-yard touchdown rush by Maurice Washington that put them ahead by 31-24 with just 6 minutes remaining. After Shenault Jr, fumbled on the punt return to start the 2nd half, it seemed just the beginning of another another disappointing season for Colorado.
The valiant 2nd half comeback began for the Buffs as the defense forced another significant stop to put the offense in valuable field position. Soon after, Montez connected with Tony Brown for a 26-yard touchdown in which Brown was barely able to tag his foot within the endzone. Colorado and Nebraska went into overtime tied at 31.
The Buffs began overtime with possession and ultimately settled for a field goal. The in-form Colorado defense, however, was able to keep Nebraska out of the red zone. Nebraska was forced to use their overtime possession with a field goal attempt by Punter, Isaac Armstrong. Armstrong hooked it wide, however, and Colorado pulled off an incredible upset for the second year in a row.
What could’ve been a detrimental result for a team in progress and a new head coach turned into a surprising and persevering victory for the Colorado Buffs? The Buffs will look to maintain their winning fashion when they head up to take on Air Force this Saturday. This non-Conference win should feel different for Colorado because they showed how they can fix and shadow the flaws of their game with an aggressive offensive strategy.
Written by Paul Fritz
