Buffs look to weather a storm: Iowa State Preview
- Leo Rivera IV
- Oct 10
- 3 min read
Defending home turf will be the top priority for quarterback Kaidon Salter, who is entering a do-or-die contest as the starter.
A struggling Colorado Buffaloes (2-4, 0-3 Big 12) return home to face the No. 22-ranked Iowa State Cyclones (5-1, 2-1), who are fresh off their first defeat. The Buffs collapsed another 14-0 lead in their loss to Texas Christian, 35-21. Meanwhile, the Clyclones were outgunned by Cincinnati 38-30 last Saturday.
The Cyclones enter Boulder short-handed in the secondary. Losing two corners, Jeremiah Cooper and Jontez Williams, to knee injuries has created a glaring weakness in ISU’s back end. Their defense also gave up 474 total yards of offense, playing a role in their defeat.
For Salter, it highlights a key advantage he will need to utilize as the helm of the Buffs' offense. He had three interceptions that were costly point swings for Colorado in their loss, and has been unable to finish games consistently.
At home, the expectation is for Salter to succeed. Fans have already been calling for the Buffs to play true freshman Julian Lewis, who is waiting in the wings, and a loss could be the straw that breaks the camel's back.
Head coach Deion Sanders has been hesitant to reveal a plan for the freshman quarterback.
“He’s coming around the mountain when he comes,” Sanders said simply.
The run game is the primary way for the Buffs to relieve pressure on Salter. Colorado has been leaning into their offensive line and has had 100 yards or more on the ground in their last three games. Prioritizing the unit could lead to cleaner pass opportunities for Salter.
With injuries to running backs Dekalon Taylor and Simeon Price, Dre’lon Miller has stepped up in his role in the backfield. Miller is also used as a wildcat quarterback, creating another element that ISU will have to prepare for.
With leading receiver Omarion Miller scoring three touchdowns on the year, Colorado can be efficient with their offensive weapons. The execution has been the difference in their success, but a weakened defense could help them find a rhythm.
The Cyclones' offense has been run by quarterback Rocco Becht, who is no stranger to Big 12 football. On the season, he has 1,417 passing yards and nine touchdowns and is the heartbeat of the offense.
On the ground, the Cyclones look to use their physical playstyle to match up against the Buffs. Their offense has rushed for 911 yards as a team, with Carsen Hansen leading the backfield with 348 yards. The unit has also found the endzone 14 times on the ground.
ISU’s offense is not reliant on one player specifically, but rather a committee. In the receiving room, Brett Eskildsen sits just above the pack with 321 yards and two touchdowns. Six total targets have caught ten or more balls, showing Becht’s willingness to feed the open man.
Even with the Cyclone’s injuries, it will be an uphill climb for Colorado to pull away with an upset. The Buffs have shown the ability to keep it close, but will need one of their players to come up big at home.
A loss could mean it is time for Salter to hand over the reins yet again, but a good performance could give him time for one more week.
Kickoff is set for 1:30 p.m. MT on ESPN.
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