Colorado Coach Kevin Mathis Highlights Biggest Strength of Buffaloes' Secondary

Colorado’s secondary was highlighted by cornerbacks coach Kevin Mathis who spoke highly to the media about the group and their different skill sets on defense after Friday’s practice, highlighting defensive back Makari Vickers in particular.

“What I really like is the versatility of the group. Those guys are able to not only play the pass but also be effective in the run game. Being able to play multiple positions is key for us, and I think we're doing a good job with that," said Mathis.

Colorado Buffaloes Football Secondary Makari Vickers Kevin Mathis Defense Travis Hunter Preston Hodge Deion Sanders — Nov 29, 2024; Boulder, Colorado, USA; Colorado Buffaloes wide receiver Travis Hunter (12) warms up before the game against the Oklahoma State Cowboys at Folsom Field. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images | USA TODAY Sports via Reuters Connect

For the Buffaloes who are looking to bounce back in 2026, having defensive backs capable of playing multiple positions could serve them very well.

Colorado Buffaloes Secondary's Defining Factor

Over the past year, Colorado has undergone significant changes in the secondary making versatility more important.

Mathis, who joined coach Deion Sanders’ staff back in 2022, has played a major role in the development of Colorado’s defensive backs. He coached Travis Hunter during Hunter’s time in Boulder and helped oversee a secondary that became one of the most recognizable position groups in college football.

Mathis has now transitioned to working primarily with the nickel position while continuing his responsibilities as the defensive pass game coordinator. This move gives Colorado another opportunity to maximize the different skill sets within its backfield.

The Buffaloes have emphasized players who are capable of moving around the defense as opposed to being limited to one position. This can make a significant difference in today’s college football landscape that consists of offenses constantly trying to create mismatches.

Colorado has already demonstrated the approach of having players move around positions or become capable of doing so in recent seasons. Players such as Travis Hunter is a prime example of someone who was able to line up in multiple positions depending on the matchup that week. Mathis previously discussed how Hunter’s ability to play corner, nickel and safety allowed Colorado to be more creative with its defensive personnel.

That very philosophy appears to remain important heading into the 2026 season.

A New Opportunity After Losing Key Talent

One of the biggest challenges for Colorado heading into the season is replacing the production of players who have moved on.

Hunter’s departure to the NFL left a large hole in the secondary while Preston Hodge also left for the professional level. Colorado cannot realistically expect players to replace everything Hunter was as a player and leader, but it can attempt to replace his versatility and build from there.

This could actually be a spot where this year’s secondary has an advantage.

Mathis has spoken about the talent and versatility within the new group including players who are capable of contributing at multiple positions.

“Makari [Vickers] really, really stepped up. We've moved him around, as I talked about the versatility part of it, but he's really stepped up," said Mathis.

The development of that group could be one of the biggest storylines to keep an eye on throughout the 2026 season.

Colorado is going to need their defensive backs to communicate well, tackle consistently, and hood up in coverage against some of the Big 12’s most talented offenses. While these points might seem like common sense or simple fundamentals, their execution is absolutely necessary. This could help transform the defense into a much more reliable unit as a whole.

The biggest question that remains is whether or not Colorado can turn versatility into consistent production.

Mathis’ comments opens fans eyes to the coaching staff’s belief and confidence in this very group. This year, they could have something different like a deep, flexible secondary that can move players around who teams will have to game plan around.

For Colorado, the versatility could become one of the most important ingredients for a successful 2026 season.

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