Colorado Buffaloes are currently sixth in the B12 Conference. And, unlike last year, the team’s defense has been quite stable. One man has caught everyone’s attention — Shane Cokes. Coach Deion Sanders acknowledged Cokes’ impact on his team’s fortunes.
Advertisement
While Coach Prime respects what Cokes brings to the team, he wants more from his defensive lineman. He said:
“He is who he is. What I want is for him to be a little more relentless, a little more like selfish if you would ask, like a little more just go get it… not that he isn’t. But, I just want him to get a little more nastier.”
Sanders appreciated the vibrant team spirit he has induced in the players, lauded him for his consistency and understanding of the role, and named him as a staple for the team. The star coach also hinted that we could see Cokes featuring in the NFL Draft next year going by the way he is progressing at the moment.
View this post on Instagram
Sanders’ words illustrate how how great the DL has been. Stats provide the evidence as well. This season, he has recorded 16 tackles in total and 1 sack.
If this wasn’t enough, Cokes was named in the watch list for the Allstate Wuerffel Trophy. It is a prestigious award given to those student-athletes who are inspired to serve others and make a positive impact on society.
Cokes has clearly been the highlight of Colorado’s defense. And, as a unit, the team has surpassed expectations too.
Sanders-led Buffaloes make a statement through their defense
The Buffaloes are known for their offense, with Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter leading the charge. Time and again, the team’s defense were criticized in the past. Not this year!
Against the Arizona Wildcats, no one would have predicted that will win 34-7. The tight defense was the key in that game. They targetted Wildcats QB Noah Fifita, sacked him seven times. They also limited the WR Tetairoa McMillan. The star wideout could only contribute 38 yards for five catches.
The UCF Knights matchup offered another proof of the superior Colorado defense. They held the Knights well below their season average, to just 177 rushing yards on 44 carries.
This well-oiled defensive set-up has been the hallmark for the Buffaloes this season, especially in the second half.
If they continue to improve, there is a good possibility that Sanders and Co. might find themselves in the reckoning for a college football playoff spot. At the moment, the playoff dream do not seem as far-fetched as it was last season.
