Utah does not just run one quarterback; they run two at the same time. This unique trick has recruits calling the offense “awesome” while Colorado’s defense scrambles to find a plan. The Buffaloes must stop Devon Dampier and his backup Byrd Ficklin before Saturday’s game. If the Utes keep this up, they will score points all day long.

The surprise here is how well this system works. Utah is already perfect on the season after beating Kansas 41-24. They gained 287 rushing yards and 258 passing yards in that win. Wayshawn Parker ran for 171 yards and two touchdowns. He even scored a 90-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter to seal the deal. This balance proves the two-quarterback plan is not a gimmick. It is a real weapon.

The Quarterback Pairing That Breaks Defenses

Colorado’s defense faces a nightmare scenario with Devon Dampier leading the charge. In the opening five contests, he has passed for 1,134 yards and 15 total touchdowns. He also averages 11.4 rushes per game. But the real danger is that Utah lines up both Dampier and Ficklin together. Ficklin can play as a running back, tight end, or receiver at any moment. This forces defenders to guess who has the ball before the play even starts.

Recruits watching from the sidelines see this clearly. American Fork wide receiver Cash Taiese visited Salt Lake City on Saturday. He told Yahoo Sports, “They had a great performance, and what caught my attention is how successful they are with two quarterbacks.” Taiese noted that Utah is “heading in a really good direction and being really creative with their offense.” This creativity makes it hard for any defense to prepare for every look.

Colorado needs help on the defensive front. Lamont Lester Jr. and Santana Hooper must pressure Dampier. Lester is back from an injury he suffered at Baylor. He missed the Texas Tech game but should play now. His ability to beat blockers is vital. Without him, the Buffs will struggle to stop the run. Kevin McGiven, the offensive coordinator for the Utes, has executed play calls exceptionally well. He knows exactly how to use his weapons.

Tight Ends Add Another Layer of Confusion

The confusion grows when you add the tight ends to the mix. Utah always keeps at least one tight end on the field. They scored two touchdowns with tight ends against Kansas. This is a big deal for a team that uses its big men so much. Skyridge tight end Steeler Wesley saw this up close during the game. He told Yahoo Sports, “Their offense is definitely unique. They are very versatile. They line up in formations I’ve never even seen before.”

Wesley also said, “They always have at least one TE on the field, which is awesome. They also had two TE touchdowns last night, which is always a good thing.” He liked the environment so much that he called it “an awesome environment and everybody felt like family.” If Wesley joins the team, he fits this system perfectly. He is a 6-foot-5, 210-pound player who ranks as the 23rd-best tight end in the country. Utah is one of 14 programs on his radar.

Colorado must find a way to stop these tight ends. The Buffs have a history of giving up yards and points. They need to maintain gap containment. This means forcing Dampier and the running backs to play behind the chains. It is easier said than done. The Utes have disruptors on their own defensive line. They will try to stop the Buffs’ rushing attack early and often.

Colorado’s Offensive Woes Could Hurt the Game

While Utah shines, Colorado’s offense is in trouble. Against Power 4 teams, the Buffs average just 10.3 points per game. They need to establish their rushing attack inside. But the biggest question is who will start at quarterback. One pick-six in the end zone let the Red Raiders extend their lead. To make matters worse, Colorado’s offensive play sheet was left in a hotel bar. Texas Tech fans picked it up. This week, the Buffs must get out of their own way.

Source: Yahoo Sports