CU Buffs Urgently Address Run Defense After 422-Yard Collapse

UPDATE: The Colorado Buffaloes are in urgent need of improvement as they prepare for their upcoming match against Arizona. After a dismal 53-7 loss to Utah, which saw them surrender a staggering 422 rushing yards, defensive coaches are scrambling to correct critical mistakes.

Defensive ends coach George Helow described the performance as “embarrassing” during practice on Wednesday. “We’ve moved past it. We’ve got to own it and correct it and get better,” he emphasized as the Buffs aim to bounce back from a disappointing season, currently holding a record of 3-5 and 1-4 in the Big 12.

Kickoff is set for 5 p.m. at Folsom Field on Saturday, where the Buffs face a less formidable Arizona team that ranks 12th in the Big 12 for rushing offense, averaging 142.14 yards per game. However, running back Ismail Madhi, who has 445 yards on 77 carries, presents a significant threat to the Buffs’ struggling defense.

The statistics tell a grim story for Colorado: they currently sit at 134th out of 136 FBS teams in rush defense, allowing an average of 217.25 yards per game. In their last two games alone, the Buffs have allowed a shocking 658 rushing yards.

Helow pointed out that while Utah boasts an elite offensive line, the problems stemmed largely from the Buffaloes’ own failures. “We’ve got to do our job,” he stated, stressing the need for better execution on fundamental skills like getting off the ball and tackling.

“It’s all on me. I’m the run game coordinator. I have a job to do. OK, we didn’t get it done.” – George Helow

As the team reviews the Utah game film, defensive end Keaten Wade remarked, “It was definitely tough to watch. But I feel we will be better this week.” The players are determined to bring a new energy to practice and focus on team cohesion.

With the losses piling up, the pressure is on the coaching staff and players alike to turn around the season. They must not only secure the edges against Arizona but also improve their tackling efficiency to prevent explosive plays. “We have to secure the edges. We’ve got to make him run north and south,” Helow explained, referring to Madhi’s running style.

As the Buffs gear up for this critical matchup, fans are eager to see whether the team can rise to the occasion after a disheartening defeat. The outcome of Saturday’s game could have significant implications for the remainder of the season, making this a must-win scenario for the struggling Colorado squad.

Stay tuned for live updates and in-depth analysis as the CU Buffs fight to regain their footing against Arizona.