A physical presence in the backfield
The Buffaloes’ coaching staff announced the arrival of Richard Young, a transfer from the University of Alabama, as a cornerstone of the revamped rushing attack. His addition signals a deliberate shift toward a more power‑driven ground game after a season that produced just three wins.
Standing at 5‑foot‑11 and 215 pounds, Young brings a compact, physically imposing frame that aligns perfectly with offensive coordinator Brennan Marion’s vision of a one‑cut runner. At Alabama he logged a 5.4‑yard average per carry, a statistic that caught the eye of the Buffaloes’ staff and reinforced the belief that his style could thrive in a new system.
The Buffaloes are implementing a Go‑Go offense that leans heavily on multiple backs, motion, spacing and two‑back looks. This scheme is designed to create stress on defenses by forcing them to account for several threats simultaneously, and Young’s skill set fits neatly into that equation.
Young will share carries with returning backs Micah Welch and the newly signed duo Damian Henderson and Jaquail Smith. Henderson, a 6‑foot‑2, 210‑pound presence, adds size on the edge, while Smith’s speed offers a complementary threat, but Young is viewed as the player with the highest ceiling among the group.
What it means for the offense
If Young clicks early, the Buffaloes hope to unlock a rushing attack that can take pressure off the passing game and sustain drives, a necessity after a 3‑9 season that left the program searching for a turnaround. The depth created by Young, Welch, Henderson and Smith could allow Colorado to dictate tempo and keep defenses off balance throughout the schedule.