Why surprising Colorado QB choice can take advantage of opportunity

The Colorado Buffaloes announced quarterback Ryan Staub as their starter for their game against the Houston Cougars this week. 

Staub had a strong showing in the team’s win over Delaware last weekend. He went 7-of-10 for 157 yards and two touchdowns.

The redshirt sophomore has previous starting experience after starting the final game of the 2023 season against the Utah Utes, and played well. He completed 17-of-24 passes for 195 yards and a touchdown pass to Travis Hunter.

The decision to start Staub may seem like a bit of a surprise given the pedigree of Colorado’s quarterback room. Kaidon Salter came to Boulder as a highly regarded transfer from Liberty. Julian Lewis was named a five-star recruit by ESPN and Rivals, and was thought to be in line for the starting job once Sanders left the program.

This is his opportunity to show what he can do, and continue his upward progression from the Delaware game. A good performance on Friday could make the quarterback room interesting.

He showed several tools on Saturday that could help him succeed in the long run. He had tremendous vision, and was able to make timely throws from the pocket. In addition, he was solid on his progressions, and stepped up to make throws when needed. These types of things could allow him to succeed moving forward.

He may not have the pedigree of Salter or Lewis, but he has the experience and tools to be able to lead the Buffaloes to victory. This was evident on his touchdown throw to Sincere Brown, as he was able to place it only where the receiver could get. His rapport with his receivers was strong throughout the day. That could prove to be important in the long run, especially with the current quarterback situation in flux

The Cougars will serve as a solid test in what is a big game for the program. Staub may not be a name familiar to many college football fans, but he could be the quarterback who helps bridge the gap until Lewis takes over. There was certainly enough there on Saturday for Colorado fans to be excited about, and the game against the Cougars on Friday will be a chance to build on that.