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One of college football’s best rivalries will take place on Saturday with the Colorado Buffaloes travelling to take on the Nebraska Cornhuskers in Lincoln.
There could be one notable mismatch in that contest given the ‘Huskers size in the trenches.
Much was made of the Buffaloes‘ retooled offensive line this offseason after the team allowed the second-most sacks in college football.
While productive, Shedeur Sanders often found himself running for his life, either having to create on the fly or take unnecessary hits. The Buffs also struggled to run the ball consistently.
In attempts to avoid a repeat performance, Coach Prime relied on recruiting. Three new faces will start against Nebraska in transfers Justin Mayers and Kahlil Benson, as well as true freshman Jordan Seaton.
Unfortunately, the group didn’t live up to the billing in their debut versus North Dakota State.
Sanders, again, had to improvise or take shots as the pocket collapsed around him. While he was sacked only once, the Bison pressured him on eight occasions. Making matters worse, Colorado rushed for just 59 yards.
This was the scene throughout much of the night.
@espn 🔥🔥🔥 #cfb #football #colorado #shedeursanders #touchdown ♬ original sound – ESPN
They’ll face an even tougher challenge in Lincoln!
Nebraska’s defensive front is MASSIVE.
The Cornhuskers’ Week 1 depth chart shows a two-deep that averages 6’4″ and tips the scales at over 300 pounds. Three of those six players are 6’5″ or taller while four weigh 285+.
Nebraska runs a 3-3-5 scheme designed to mix coverages and pressure the quarterback. It’s tough to line up against when it’s got the right personnel. Just ask Urban Meyer!
Nebraska has the players, particularly in the trenches, to wreak havoc as those 300-pounders take up space inside to allow free rushers from the second level.
That said, Colorado offensive lineman Justin Mayers isn’t worried about any size disadvantage. He’s relying on technique!
“Their game on both sides of the ball is really their trenches, the O-Line and D-Line for them. I’m not really worried about their size, as long as we rely on our technique and be aggressive, we should be good.”
-Justin Mayers on Nebraska’s defensive line
Now, Mayers has the advantage of being the Buffs’ largest lineman at 320 pounds, so he might be able to handle the ‘Huskers size more easily.
That may not be the case for others!
Colorado’s offensive line boasted confidence ahead of its Week 1 matchup against North Dakota State, but it quickly found itself in a slugfest. We’ll see how the Buffaloes handle Nebraska’s massive front on Saturday.