UPDATE: The Colorado Buffaloes are grappling with a significant injury crisis just days before their crucial matchup against Arizona State, set for Saturday at 6 p.m. ET at Folsom Field. Left tackle Jordan Seaton is now questionable to play due to a lingering lower leg injury, while safety Ben Finneseth has been ruled out entirely, raising concerns for the Buffs’ offensive line.
On Wednesday night, the Big 12 Conference released its player availability report, highlighting the challenges faced by the Buffs. Coach Deion Sanders acknowledged the team is dealing with an “injury bug,” indicating a tough road ahead as they prepare for the Sun Devils. “You hope to get guys back (after a bye week), but some of those guys may not,” Sanders stated.
Seaton, regarded as one of the top left tackles in college football, has missed the last game against West Virginia, and right tackle Larry Johnson III is also questionable after not participating in that game. This situation could severely impact the Buffs’ ability to protect their quarterback and establish their running game.
Finneseth, a former walk-on, has contributed significantly this season with 27 tackles and six starts. His absence will be felt on the field as the Buffs aim to maintain a competitive edge against ASU. The participation report lists a total of 16 players from Colorado, reflecting the ongoing struggles with injuries.
Other notable players sidelined include cornerback RJ Johnson, defensive tackles Amari McNeill and Tawfiq Thomas, and backup long snapper Camden Dempsey. Johnson, who started the first three games of the season, has only played one snap in the last seven, significantly weakening the Buffs’ defensive lineup.
Freshman linebacker Mantrez Walker is the only player listed as “doubtful,” while several others are on the questionable list, including cornerback Makari Vickers and safety Carter Stoutmire. Stoutmire has started seven games this season, making his potential absence a critical blow to the Buffs’ defense.
In a twist, Arizona State’s receiver Jordyn Tyson is also listed as questionable as he returns from a hamstring injury, adding another layer of intensity to this matchup. Tyson has not played for the last three games but has participated in practice this week.
As the Buffs prepare to face the Sun Devils, the stakes have never been higher. With injuries piling up, the team’s depth will be tested, and fans are left wondering who will step up in this pivotal game. The Buffs have their work cut out for them, and all eyes will be on Folsom Field this Saturday evening.
Keep an eye on the lineup changes and player status updates as kickoff approaches, and stay tuned for live coverage of the Buffs as they look to overcome these challenges and secure a victory against Arizona State.
