Buff Nation,
On a cold, rainy, windy night in Pullman, Washington, the CU Buffs salvaged their season, found their identity and reestablished themselves as contenders in the Pac-12. At least, that is one possible outcome for tonight’s 8:45 PM ESPN game when the CU Buffs take on the #15 Washington State Cougars. The forecast calls for foul weather. That will match the Cougars’ mood as they chomp at the bit to redeem themselves after an embarrassing loss to Cal last week. That will also match the mood the Buffs have regarding their entire season. Eight weeks in and CU has yet to find its identity.
Tonight CU will find out who they are. They are Phillip Lindsey, CU’ all-time leader in career all-purpose yards. The three-year captain, out of Denver South High School is Colorado’s native son. He represents all that is good in football – on and off the field. CU rides Lindsey when nothing is working and when everything is working. Over the course of the last couple seasons, my kids have crossed paths with Lindsey at least a handful of times. Every time he has slowed down to see them, to take pictures and to smile. I’m not even sure he knows he’s doing it. Tonight in Pullman, CU will go where Lindsay takes them. He is the best CU has to offer.
The Pac-12 is a tough well-balanced league. Anyone can beat anyone on any given Saturday. Tonight CU goes in as a heavy 10-point underdog. Look for CU to go to Lindsay early and often. Lindsay will do his part. If rest of the CU offense continues to hum like they have over last two weeks (finally) and the defense figures out how to stop the run (please), this match-up has the making of an excellent Pac-12 football at night ball game. Come Sunday am Buff Nation will see how far Lindsay has taken them.
Go Buffs!
Doug