Colorado’s Quarterback Competition Heats Up: What It Means for the Buffaloes Future
The Colorado Buffaloes are in the middle of a pivotal quarterback battle that could define the direction of their season and the next few years of the program. With three candidates fighting for the starting job, the battle is now and has a lot on the line. With Shedeur Sanders leaving, there is a huge hole to fill on this roster. Colorado hopes to find their guy and find him now, as a matchup with Houston is right around the corner.
The Contenders
Kaidon Salter, a transfer from Liberty, was handed the start in the Buffaloes’ season opener against Georgia Tech. Salter was a dual threat, passing for 159 yards and running for 43. He also threw for a touchdown in the 27-20 loss. Salter played the last four years at Liberty and hoped to earn his spot as the starter for Colorado.
Ryan Staub, the redshirt sophomore, started as the third QB in the depth chart, and he excelled in his first appearance for the Buffaloes. Staub threw for two touchdowns and 157 yards against Delaware and displayed his great playmaking abilities. Staub’s play forced everyone to take notice and heated up this QB battle in Colorado. The redshirt sophomore was patient and waited for his time to come and put himself in this conversation for the starting job.
Julian Lewis, the true freshman and highly anticipated recruit, threw for eight yards, going two for four in the game against Delaware. The former Georgia Gatorade Player of the Year chose the Buffaloes over USC after flipping his commitment last fall. The young talent has a large upside, but has competition for the starting role. Still young, Lewis might have to wait his turn and continue to adapt and learn to earn his spot.
The quarterback battle is not just about elite playmaking on the field; it's about leadership on and off the field and bringing the team together to help win games. Lewis is a 17-year-old freshman with great potential but might have more to learn. He might be a huge part of the future of this program, but he might not be the choice right away. With three QBs in the mix, coach Prime will have to make a choice this Friday as the Buffaloes take on Houston.
Many predict Staub will get the start, but coach Prime has not said anything official. As for right now, Colorado needs a guy who will lead this team and win. Staub took advantage of his opportunity and put himself in the battle, but it is up to the coaching staff to make a decision for the team. A lot of depth at the position may set Colorado up for success in the future, but they need a leader now.
Friday will be a test for the coaching staff and the team to see who the real starter will be. Not only does it matter for Friday's game, but for the rest of the season and the next few years. Finding a true leader and starting QB will set the Buffaloes up for a good season and could put them on the right path for years to come. With Staub expected to start the next game, the Colorado Buffaloes’ season could depend on his performance and might solve the question of who the solidified starter is.
