PAC-12 Preview Part III
Colorado
The Colorado Buffaloes made big strides with a late start in 2020 restart under new coach Karl Dorrell. With talent sprinkled across the roster they will still have an uphill battle in 2021 to compete in the Southern Division.
The Buffs return six starters on both sides of the ball led by running back Jarek Broussard. He was third in the NCAA last season with 149.2 yards per game being the PAC-12 offensive player of the year. Brenden Rice at receiver will look to emerge as critical part of the offense.
On the defensive side the transfer portal was hot for the Buffs picking up linebackers Robert Barnes (Oklahoma), Jack Lamb (Notre Dame) and Blayne Toll (Arkansas) defensive end to add depth for a long Pac-12 season.
Making the Alamo Bowl should bring some great momentum going into this season kicking off with Northern Colorado before facing off with Texas A&M.
Predictions 7-5
Utah
The Utah Utes have the most tenured coach led by Kyle Whittingham and the second most returning starters in the PAC-12 with 18.
Ten starters back for the offense only missing a quarterback and running back. There will also be transfer TJ Pledger in the backfield for depth. The offense will have to do better then last season 409 yards per game to move up the ranks in PAC-12.
The Utes defense is always a consistent part of the team and this season will be no different. Devin Lloyd the anchor of the defense and Butkus Award finalist linebacker will lead them through this season.
A fast start could allow them to be 4-0 before they hit a bye week and be ready for second half with Oregon at home and USC on the road.
Just a solid team who will be ready and primed for a run at PAC-12 South contention.
Predictions 9-3
