Getty Image
The Colorado Buffaloes kick off their season in just a few days as they eye a Week 1 matchup against TCU. It looks like they could get a major boost from the special teams unit in that opener.
Colorado kicker Jace Feely was seen drilling a field goal from long range in his most recent practice, leading to a hilarious response from his head coach.
Deion Sanders takes over in Boulder following a three-year stint at Jackson State. In those three seasons, the Tigers posted 27-6 overall record.
Now, he’ll see what he can do at the Power Five level.
Coach Prime accepted the head coaching gig at Colorado this past offseason, and he’s made immediate waves around college football. Not only has he upgraded talent on the roster, but he’s given the program a ton of exposure over the passing months.
Nothing, though, has been more anticipated than the Buffaloes’ season opener.
CU will open up with national runner-up TCU, giving Sanders and Co. an immediate test. The Buffs enter as a 21-point underdog at last check, though some have been bold enough to pick the upset.
Should the game wind up a little closer than that line suggests, the Colorado kicking game could prove to be important. Based on a recent practice, that could be a positive for the Buffs.
Colorado kicker drills 62-yard field goal at practice.
While the headlines in Boulder have surrounded Coach Prime, as well as potential stars Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter, it looks like the special teams unit could be flying a little under the radar.
Jace Feely, son of former NFL kicker Jay Feely, showed off his big leg during preseason camp, nailing a 62-yard field goal to end a recent practice session.
His dad posted a clip of the make on Twitter.
💣💣💣from 62 to end practice @jace_feely
Listen to what @DeionSanders says at the end 😂😂🦶🏻 pic.twitter.com/oKtMNT80fO— Jay Feely (@jayfeely) August 25, 2023
The field goal led to a huge celebration from his Colorado teammates, as well as a hilarious quip from his head coach.
When cameras flashed to Deion Sanders after the impressive kick, he joked, “If I had any toes, I could do that, too.”
Sanders lost some toes during surgery due to blood clots, which he showed off after taking the role at Colorado. The procedures have hindered his mobility a bit, and certainly his field goal kicking abilities.
Luckily for the Buffs, Feely will be handling those duties in 2023. The Arizona State transfer recorded one punt for 37 yards last season while making his only extra point.
He’ll look to make an impact in Boulder in the coming year.