Three Buffs to watch on defense for Colorado vs UCLA

For Colorado to pull off the upset, it’s going to take a complete team effort. They need big plays from more than just the superstars. Here are three guys ready to have a huge impact on this game.

1. Rodrick Ward, Safety

Ward has been a mission the last three games. As a graduate transfer, he’s been a leading voice in the locker room. As opportunities increased, Rodrick has certainly elevated his performance. He has 26 tackles in the last three games and is seemingly around the ball at all times. When Myles Slusher returned from injury, you might have thought Ward’s reps would be reduced, that hasn’t happened. Finding opportunities for both of them to be on the field at the same time, could create all sorts of problems for opponents.

2. Amari McNeill, Defensive Line

Amari is due for a big breakout game. This feels the type of situation that sets up well for him. He’s very capable of disrupting the Bruins ground game. The more 3rd and 6/7 yard situations the line can help create, the more opportunities for turnovers.

3. Shane Cokes, Defensive Line

Shane is the type of player every locker room needs. For those who have criticized Coach Prime’s use of the transfer portal, I question whether they are truly seeing the method behind some of the madness. Adding graduate transfers like Ward, Cokes, Domineck and others, offers much more than just productivity on the playing field. Cokes understands the importance of this game. With so much on the line, I’m looking to the defensive line to rise up and cause havoc.