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RR Ralphie Report: Preview: Buffaloes take on dangerous Cincinnati team

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Colorado v Arizona

Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images

Can the Buffaloes move to 6-2 and secure bowl eligibility this week?

This Saturday Colorado will take on a Cincinnati Bearcats team that has played well this season. Both teams are 5-2 and 3-1 in conference play so far, making this a game with possible postseason implications. The Buffaloes come into this game healthy and are favored by five points in most sportsbooks. We’re going to break down each team’s strengths, how they match up, and who has the upper hand this weekend.

Colorado’s Strengths:​

Offensive:​


The obvious strength for Colorado is its passing attack. Shedeur Sanders has already thrown 19 touchdowns this season and is being touted by some as the best quarterback in the nation. While that debate is still ongoing, one thing is certain: this is the best passing offense in the Big 12 when they get decent pass protection. A key to this game will be seeing how well Colorado can reintegrate Travis Hunter into the offense after his shoulder injury. Additionally, Sanders will need to get the ball out quickly and avoid costly interceptions, especially against a scrappy defense like Cincinnati’s.

More than in any other Big 12 matchup this season, Colorado must emphasize establishing the run game on Saturday. Cincinnati’s defensive line is too talented to sit back and wait for the game to come to them. They’ve averaged just under three sacks per game, and I wouldn’t be surprised if they exceed that number in this one. To keep the defense honest, look for the Buffs to rotate through their stable of running backs to get the ground game going early.

Defensive:​


Colorado’s defense looked cohesive last weekend in Tucson and will aim to build on that performance. Colton Hood stepping up as an outside corner was encouraging, and the defensive line had its best game of the season, recording seven sacks. Pressure was constant throughout the game, and that could be the deciding factor again this week.

If Colorado’s defensive front can continue to generate pressure from both the interior and the edge, they’ll have a major advantage. Defensive coordinator Robert Livingston has done a phenomenal job in recent weeks, scheming players into positions where they can succeed. His role will be crucial as the Buffs navigate the rest of their conference schedule.

Cincinnati’s Strengths:​

Offensive:​


The first thing that stands out about Cincinnati’s offense is their play-calling. They have a balanced mix of RPOs, option runs, gap schemes, and creative passing designs that keep defenses guessing. This balanced attack has resulted in 12 rushing touchdowns and 13 passing touchdowns this season, with sophomore quarterback Brendan Sorsby accounting for 19 total touchdowns.

Sorsby has shown a strong ability to execute RPOs and option plays, keeping the Bearcats’ offense in rhythm. He also steps up in crucial moments, with the Bearcats converting nearly 50% of third downs and an impressive 90% of fourth down attempts. While those rates may not be sustainable, they highlight the offense’s discipline, resilience, and the coaching staff’s ability to make calculated risks pay off.

Defensive:​


This Cincinnati defense is scrappy, and as a Buffaloes fan, it’s a little scary. I’d rather play a more talented defense without cohesion than one with the chemistry this unit has. They swarm the ball carrier, constantly look for opportunities to punch the ball out, and more often than not, you’ll see six or more Bearcats around the ball by the end of each play. Their continuity and aggressive mindset has allowed them to build momentum in games, and kept them consistently making big plays.

Their pass rush is also something to watch. Colorado will need to show the same improved offensive line play from last week if they’re going to keep Shedeur Sanders upright. The Bearcats have talent on both the interior and exterior of the defensive line, and they’ll view Colorado’s inconsistent O-line as an opportunity to showcase their skill. While their pass coverage can be inconsistent, their ability to generate pressure up front could make all the difference in this game.

Mismatches:​


Both teams’ defensive lines seem to outmatch the offensive lines they’ll be facing. Good play-calling on both sides will keep this game competitive, but I don’t expect the final score to be in the 30s for either team.

Cincinnati’s rushing attack, averaging five yards per carry, nearly doubles Colorado’s production on the ground. The Buffs have had issues stopping the run at times this season, and this will be a big test to see if they’ve learned from giving up over 200 rushing yards against Kansas State just two weeks ago.

Prediction:​


The Bearcats are a tenacious team. Their offensive play-calling is tricky and well-designed, and they’ll find ways to score. Defensively, they’re fast, aggressive, and play with exceptional chemistry. Cincinnati could beat any team in the Big 12 on the right day, but ultimately, I think the Buffaloes’ star power, pro-level play-calling, and raw athletic talent will give them the slight upper hand.

Colorado 28

Cincinnati 24


by Jacob.Thompson
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