Three Key Takeaways From the Colorado Buffaloes' Statement Win Over Delaware

While the Buffs demonstrated that they have multiple players capable of making things happen from behind center, they also have some questions to answer before facing tougher competition.

Colorado’s Quarterback Carousel

The Buffs leaned on three different quarterbacks throughout the game, a storyline that will undoubtedly linger in Boulder as the week progresses.

Senior quarterback Kaidon Salter started the game strong, completing 12 of 15 passes for 80 yards and adding a nine-yard rushing touchdown to cap Colorado’s opening scoring drive. His poise and mobility set the tone early, but after failing to set his feet on a throw that sailed on him, freshman phenom Julian “JuJu” Lewis made his long-awaited debut.

The five-star freshman flashed the arm talent that made him one of the most coveted recruits in the nation, but he also showed his inexperience. Drives sputtered, and Delaware capitalized on the momentum shift with a 7-play, 80-yard touchdown drive to close the gap to 10-7 late in the half.

The decision to insert Lewis so early was a curious one, but Sander wasn't done throwing curveballs.

With just 45 seconds left before halftime, sophomore Ryan Staub entered the game and immediately gave the Buffs a spark.

The third-year sophomore who spent the past two seasons behind former Buffs star Shedeur Sanders orchestrated a dazzling six-play, 75-yard drive in only 36 seconds, capped by a 21-yard strike to Dekalon Taylor that restored Colorado’s control of the game going into the second half.

On the opening drive of the second half, Staub connected with Sincere Brown for a 71-yard touchdown that blew the game open.

Staub’s command and explosiveness raised eyebrows, leaving many to wonder if Colorado’s quarterback battle is less settled than initially advertised.

Run Game Balance

Beyond the quarterback rotation, Colorado’s ability to run the football quietly made improvements.

The Buffs leaned on a balanced attack that kept Delaware’s defense on its heels and helped open the passing game. Simeon Price’s 24-yard burst in the second quarter highlighted that potential, while Micha Welch capped the effort with an 11-yard touchdown run in the fourth.

For a team that has struggled in recent years to establish consistent production on the ground, Saturday’s effort was an encouraging sign.

If Colorado can continue to complement its aerial threats with steady rushing contributions, the offense could become significantly more dangerous in Big 12 play.

Special Teams Remain a Strength

For the second week in a row, special teams gave Colorado a noticeable edge. Kicker Alejandro Mata knocked through his only field goal attempt, while Alex McPherson’s third-quarter blocked punt gave the Buffs prime field position.

The Buffs’ punt unit also repeatedly pinned Delaware deep, flipping field position and forcing the Blue Hens into long drives.

Sanders has emphasized the importance of “winning all three phases,” and through two games, special teams have been one of the Buffs’ most consistent assets. That reliability will only grow in importance as the schedule intensifies.

With a decisive win in hand, Colorado now turns its focus to Houston. The Buffs will travel to Texas to face the Cougars in a game that not only opens Big 12 Conference play but also marks just the second-ever meeting between the two programs.

With both teams eager to make an early statement, it promises to be an early-season test that could set the tone for both teams’ conference campaigns.