New beginnings…
Wrapping up the month of July with 10 thoughts from the weekend. Interesting month filled with learning experiences, new friends, new places, new colorado commitments, and really a month packed with non-stop news. I wanted to again say thank you to all the Buff followers that have stayed on-board here at Rivals and hope that we’ve shown you the subscriber that we are capable of dependable coverage daily.
1. July Recruiting Rewind
Colorado has added on 6 new commitments in the Month of July. The month started off with Isaiah Lewis out of Granite Bay, California pulling the trigger. The 2-star safety chose Colorado over Wyoming and is the third defensive back that Colorado has added from the Class of 2017. "What stood out most (referencing Colorado Coaches) is how they made me feel a part of the team at the camp. They really embraced me and coached me up. They showed me what to do and what not to do.
When we first got to the campus, the facilities were all top of the line. They showed me what it would be like to be a part of the tradition,” Said Lewis to CUSportsNation.com back on the 2nd of July. https://colorado.forums.rivals.com/threads/full-q-a-with-colorados-newest-commit-isaiah-lewis.27024/ The Buffs then added 3-star offensive tackle Grant Polley out of Denton, Texas. Polley is listed at 6-foot-5, 275 pounds and has a tremendous highlight tape. Colorado has added three offensive linemen to the recruiting class, landing Polley was a statement to Colorado’s new recruiting ability in the Lone Star State. Polley had offers from Arizona State, Houston, Indiana, Kansas State, Michigan, Missouri, Oklahoma, and many more before pleading to the Buffs.
10 Takeaways from Grant Polley here https://colorado.rivals.com/news/10-takeaways-from-commitment-14 After Polley committed Colorado went 13 LONG days without a commit, then during the Colorado BBQ Recruiting Weekend Shamar Hamilton out of ASA JC College in Miami Beach, Florida said he’s headed to play for Coach Mike MacIntyre. While he does not have a lot of hype, stars, etc. Hamilton is a 6-foot-5, 235 pound prospect that has speed, size, and seems very mature from the interviews Christian James has published. Here is one of my favorite quotes on Hamilton. When talking about his wrestling experience, “I feel like wrestling changed my life. It puts you into a different mindset on how you have to go hard all the time or you'll get hurt. You have to be ready once you step on the line. There was one kid, Johnny Farentino, who was captain of the wrestling team. He put me into a move that hurt so bad I feel it awakened my manhood.” https://colorado.forums.rivals.com/...commitment-and-his-football-background.28006/
Following the commitment of Hamilton, 6-foot-2, 185 pound Athlete Morrell Osling III committed to Colorado after a weekend visit to Boulder. Osling III has an electrifying highlight tape and while he plays quarterback at the prep level, most feel he will play defensive back when he gets to Colorado. Osling III committed to Colorado over Fresno State, Nevada, New Mexico, and UNLV. When asked why he picked Colorado Osling III said, "I ended up committing after the whole trip at the end of the day. I told my position coach that I felt this is the right decision for me. I talked it over with family and everyone was happy. I told all the commits and it was a great feeling." https://colorado.forums.rivals.com/...rados-latest-commitment-morrell-osling.27961/
Days after the Recruiting BBQ it was William Sherman out of Allen, Texas who committed to Colorado in a big time land. Sherman a 6-foot-3, 290 pound prospect had offers from CAL, Houston, Illinois, Kansas State among many others. Sherman said the bond with the recruits made it an easy decision. "From the first time I talked to them (additional CU Recruits), I knew it was a strong bond and that was even before I had visited. I have been on the DM (via twitter) talking to all of them. We have all been tight since a month ago." https://colorado.rivals.com/news/bond-made-decision-easy-for-sherman
The month of July ended with Danville, California linebacker Nate Landman committing to Colorado. Landman is a 6-foot-3, 212 pound linebacker that offers from Arizona, Boise State, Colorado State, Nevada, Pittsburgh, and many others. Christian James of CUSportsNation.com had this to say about Landman, “The offense might be getting all the headlines within the Class of 2017 but the Buffs got an elite linebacker with Landman. It’s a PAC 12 victory for Colorado, any time you can beat offers from Arizona, Oregon State, and Washington State for a playmaker, it means even more.” https://colorado.forums.rivals.com/...of-monte-vista-linebacker-nate-landman.28219/
2. Gifs of the July Commitments
Isaiah Lewis - Safety
Grant Polley - Offensive Tackle
Shamar Hamilton - Defensive End
Morrell Osling - Athlete
Will Sherman - Offensive Linemen
Nate Landman - Linebacker
3. Who's Next To Commit?
These are your guesses so far on the message board
Casey Roddick - OL - CA
Hyrin White - OL - TX
Jalen Harris - DL - AZ
Fa'avae Fa'avae - LB - CA
Carson Wells - DL - FL
Alex Perry - DB - NV
4. Rivals.com 2017 Team Recruiting Rankings - As of July 31, 2016 Colorado is ranked 25th in the Nation
0 - 5 Stars
2 - 4 Stars
11 - 3 Stars
5 - 2 Stars
Average Star Ranking: 2.83
Highest Rated Rivals.com Recruit
Jaylon Jackson - WR - 5-foot-10, 150 - Cedar Hill, TX - 4 Stars
5. PAC 12 Recruiting by Star Ranking Average
1. UCLA - 4.0 - Total Commitments 3
2. Stanford - 3.6 - Total Commitments 5
3. USC - 3.5 - Total Commitments 10
4. Washington - 3.27 - Total Commitments 11
5. Oregon - 3.27 - Total Commitments 11
6. Arizona State - 3.13 - Total Commitments 3.13
7. CAL - 3.0 - Total Commitments 8
7. Washington State - 3.0 -Total Commitments 11
9. Colorado - 2.83 - Total Commitments 18
10. UTAH - 2.5 - Total Commitments 4
11. Oregon state - 2.46 - Total Commitments 13
12. Arizona - 3.0 - Total Commitments 24
6. Best Posts from the Week
By @brettden27 regarding UCLA De-Commits
Don't know that we need to, or even should try. One of the bug a boos for the Buffs when they last "recruited well" was getting guys that had the numbers but did not have maybe enough substance behind those numbers. Potential stars players, but with some serious warts and/or risks. Not to say those are the guys UCLA is losing, but the guys we need to build and sustain are guys who will stick so long as we hold up our end. We don't need out of this world talent at every recruiting slot, becasue, at least in part, those guys come with a particular set of baggage. And unless you are Saban, $EC or consistently winning on New Years Day it is tough to keep many of those guys around, especially when trying to add them to the same class.
We need to capitalize by staying the course on recruiting PAC12 caliber players, with sturdy foundations, develop those players, create legitimate depth and win games. Then it won't matter what UCLA is or is not doing. Added bonus if we will surprisingly big this year some of the frontrunners will want to jump on board late anyway. So let's just win games.
By @CL34 regarding Colorado Recruiting
Yup, agree on this, CJ. This is a massive step in the right direction. CU not only has not recruited at a high level in recent history but also was one of the last schools to fill up regarding commitments. That approach to recruiting appeared to hinder us from getting a jump on the following year. I recall that some of the most successful schools host junior days the weekends after NSD and get off to a tremendous start in recruiting for the coming year. Meanwhile, we're still trying to find late signees for that class. They're signing four stars for the next year and we're scraping the bottom of the barrel for talent. Our results on the field speak for themselves, and there is no denying the correlation between recruiting success and winning percentage. This new strategy is a total paradigm shift, one many of us have wanted for years.
The NSD rankings will depend on how we close out the class and if we keep everyone signed. I am not sure we end up in the top 25. If I had to wage, we probably finish somewhere among the mid/high 30s in rankings. Ideally, our star average would be over 3.0. We're not there yet.
By @BuffNut91 regarding the Colorado Linebackers
There are a couple keys, will Gilliam stay healthy, will KO continue to improve.and show us why coaches like him, will game slow down for Gamboa and he speed up, will JC Lewis be in the mix, will anyone else on team give quality minutes (Severson, talienko, Shaver), any new freshmen see the field (like Gilliam or Dizon)
Alot of potential I think, let's see if a new S&C and another off season make any of these things happen.
By @NittanyBuff24 regarding Big 12 Expansion
What you can bring to the table drives these things, from a pure region standpoint, which conferences use to be built on, Houston would be a no brainer, but as we have discussed they don't bring anything new! UConn ,Cinci ,Memphis, BYU ,UCF,USF any 4 of those 6 is what I'm looking at for various reasons! CSU "at best" is 7th on that list and I would probably favor someone like UNLV even before them possibly. Houston is obviously ahead of CSU as well imho.. Big 12 should have added Louisville when they added WVU.
By @Buffoneus regarding recent Colorado Commitments
Sherman and Polley together are a significant change in recruiting O linemen for the Buffs. Osling and Hamilton seem like really good athletes, and we're going to get some under the radar guys. So, I voted good stuff.
By CRBuff regarding recent Colorado Commitments
Very excited about Will Sherman. Looks like he will very likely be a beast at guard or center. Hamilton looks like he could be quite good at a position of need, especially with another year to develop at his Juco, and in the weight room. Osling looks like an excellent athlete, with great size and length, who should be able to convert fairly easily to DB, and with a year or two to develop, could be a serious Pac12 corner. Pretty damn satisfied with this most recent trio.
Also sounds like we're very much in on a couple more significant OL prospects, who may decide fairly soon. The recruiting trend is continuing on a really good path.
By @DBBUFF regarding the Linebackers
My grade for the LB is a 'C' based on last year's performance - a fair grade if not high. IMO many factors contributed to that grade - injuries, slow LB, not enough top talent, not making tackles consistently, out of position, etc;.
I know that the LB is a work in progress and that our DC will get them to a higher grade and performance. He is smart, dedicated, talented, and driven to improve the LB corps.
WIth healthy bodies, more experience, more time in DC's defense, and new kids getting chances to play we could improve to a B or more this coming year. Time will tell. In our pass happy conference a lot is expected of the LBs in terms of speed, duty, and athleticism.
Also as the whole D improves, so too will the LB. Even offensive improvement keeps a D off the field more.
I noticed that we will have 7 senior linebackers this year. A great time this year to begin to fill the LB cabinet with lots of fast and athletic talent. I know that we typically use lots of nickel and dime coverages and use more safeties and cornerbacks on the field, but we still need great linebackers - whether they are rushing, covering the middle, or in coverage.
Let's hope for B or better this year.
7. Your Grade For The Colorado Linebackers “C”
Outside Linebackers
Aaron Howard - 6-foot-1, 225, Senior
Deaysean Rippy - 6-foot-2, 235, Senior
Derek McCarney - 6-foot-3, 240, Junior
Jimmie Gilbert - 6-foot-5, 225, Senior
Sam Bennion - 6-foot-5, 230, Freshmen
Terreran Hassellbach - 6-foot-1, 230, Sophomore
Tyler Hennigton - 6-foot-2, 235 - Senior
Mike Linebackers
Addison Gillam - 6-foot-3, 225, Junior
Christian Shaver- 6-foot-3, 235, Junior
Rick Gamboa - 6-foot-0, 230, Sophomore
Jack Linebackers
Kenneth Olugbode - 6-foot-1, 215, Senior
Ryan Severson - 5-foot-10, 210, Senior
Travis Talianko - 6-foot-1, 215, Senior
This week we asked for you to grade the Colorado Linebackers, 54.9 percent of you graded the Buffs’ Linebackers a C. Colorado does return guys like Derek McCarney, Jimmie Gilbert, Rick Gamoba, and Kenneth Olugbode each who played a significant amount of time during the 2015 season. Gamboa, Olugbode, and McCarney combined for 246 total tackles and Jimmie Gilbert led the team in sacks with 6. Addison Gillam missed most of the season due to an injury, but if he is healthy the linebacking unit will be much more effective than in 2015. Link to Poll https://colorado.forums.rivals.com/threads/poll-grade-the-colorado-linebackers.28135/
How does this projection of starting linebackers look going in?
OLB - Derek McCartney
MLB - Addison Gillam
WLB - Kenneth Olugbode
OLB - Jimmie Gilbert
8. Buy or sell questions are generated by CUSportsNation.com subscribers weekly. Here is what users came up with this week.
If we go bowling we lose one of Chev, Leavitt or Mac?
Sell. Colorado goes to a Bowl Game this year, this trio is going to be around for a while. Now if they don’t go to a Bowl Game that could be another story.
Lindsay leading the team in rushing?
Buy. Think Lindsay is due for another big year and while I don’t think he’ll hit 1K yards wise, I do think he’ll continue to prove he is dependable.
Gillam starting every game this year?
Sell. It’s a long season and linebackers bang heads.
CU Buff being all Pac-12?
Buy. Chidobe or Tedric, maybe both. Really think those two are going to turn heads throughout the season.
9. Storylines going into Fall Camp
Colorado's first official practices starts on Thursday, August 4th, 2016. More on that to come. Here are some quick storylines going in.
Quarterbacks - How will Sefo Liufau look mobility wise after his injury? Who will emerge as the No. 2 Quarterback? Jordan Gehrke or Steven Montez? Will we see any Wildcat packages for Jaleel Awini? How will Sam Noyer fit in competition wise?
Running Backs - Will Phillip Lindsay enter and end fall camp as the No. 1 RB? How will Michael Adkins II and Donovan Lee step up to replace the loss of Patrick Carr? Where will True Freshmen Beau Bisharat be on the depth chart?
Receivers - Who is going to step up and replace Spruce? Will both JC transfer Kabion Ento and and Juwann Winfree make instant impacts? Who else will emerge at this position?
Tight Ends - Sean Irwin returns for senior season, where will George Fraizer play? Expecting Dylan Keeney to rise up.
Offensive Line - Alex Kelley returns, will RS freshmen Tim Lynott Jr. Start? How will Jeromy Irwin look? Will Gerred Kough or Jonathan Huckins step up to become junior leaders?
Defensive Line - How will Josh Tupou impact the defensive instantly, Jordan Carrell returns for senior year, Leo Jackson III should have strong junior campaign, what is the status on Samson Kafovalu?
Linebackers - How will Addison Gillam look returning from injury, Jimmie Gilbert, Kenneth Olugbode, and Rick Gamboa all return. The depth chart changes here will be interesting to watch.
Defensive Backs - Chidobe and Tedric are dynamic duo, tons of experience in this area, will Isaiah Oliver be Colorado’s next big time Corner, who will start between Ryan Moeller and Afolabi Laguda?
Special Teams - Alex Kinney returns at punter, Diego Gonzales is now a senior, who will emerge as special teams weapons?
More on Fall Camp this week!
10. July Content Rewind
July 30th - 10 takeaways from Colorado's new commitment Nate Landman
July 30th - Buffs in play for elite '18 prospect
July 30th - Colorado in Top 7 for Cotton
July 29th - Jalen Harris has high marks for Colorado trip
July 29th - The Rise Report, Recruiting Updates
July 29th - Top Incoming Freshmen Johnny Huntley
July 28th - Colorado quietly building strong recruiting class
July 28th - Video: Analysis of Colorado Quarterback Tyler Lytle
July 27th - Bond made decision easy for Sherman
July 27th - Tyler Lytle raves about time in Boulder, BBQ
July 26th - Colorado lands commitment No. 17
July 26th - Commitment Rundowns/Latest Updates
July 26th - Ray Robinson talks about why he hasn't officially committed to Colorado
July 25th - 2017 ThunderRidge OL Heston Paige talks BBQ and selling points of Boulder
July 25th - Antelope Valley head coach talks about new CU commit Morrell Osling III
July 25th - ASA College DE Shamar Hamilton talks CU commitment and his football background
July 24th - Ten Takeaways from ASA College defensive end Shamar Hamilton's commitment
July 24th - Q&A with Colorado's latest commitment, Morrell Osling
July 24th - St. Bonaventure OL Casey Roddick talks CU trip and decision timetable
July 24th - Highlands Ranch S Ray Robinson talks about why he hasn't officially committed
July 24th - Murrieta Valley WR Maurice Bell recaps BBQ recruiting day
July 24th - 2017 Denton DB Chris Miller recaps time in Boulder
July 24th - George Ranch RB Alex Fontenot discusses what he learned from BBQ trip
July 24th - Cedar Hill WR Jaylon Jackson talks time in Boulder
July 23rd - BBQ Notes, Updates, More
July 22nd - Recruiting BBQ Preview
July 22nd - McElroy talks Colorado
July 22nd - Top 10 Returning Redshirt Freshmen: No. 5
July 21st - 4 Star Defensive Back Planning to visit CU
July 21st - Top 10 Returning Juniors: No. 5 Devin Ross
July 21st - Change of plans could lead to a new CU commit?
July 21st - Mataele fell in love with Boulder
July 20th - MEET THE COMMITS: Servite quarterback Tyler Lytle
July 20th - Inside The War Room
July 20th - Sounds like Josh Falo will be attending the BBQ
July 19th - Tuesday July 19th Recruiting/Offer Recap
July 19th - FULL Q&A with the newest CU offeree, Antelope Valley athlete Morrell Osling III
July 19th - Colorado Offers 2018 Texas WR, Good Relationship With...
July 18th - Top 10 Returning Seniors: No. 5
July 18th - Top 10 Incoming Players: No. 6
July 18th - California Running Back to visit CU
July 17th - Henderson: 10 Thoughts From the Weekend
July 17th - MEET THE COMMITS: Cherry Creek linebacker Jonathan Van Diest
July 16th - Arizona RB/LB shines at Colorado camp
July 16th - Video: Colorado QB Commit Tyler Lytle vs Redondo Beach Saturday
July 15th - Mike MacIntyre talks about what has helped build a strong recruiting class
July 15th - Chidobe Awuzie on Colorado's defense
July 15th - Sefo is ready, thoughts on the new offensive weapons
July 15th - Experience provides confidence for Buffs
July 15th - Edward Lewis of Rivals.com Recap Of Colorado At Media Day
July 15th - Colorado selected to finish sixth in the Pac-12 South in media poll
July 15th - Photos Gallery from PAC 12 Media Day
July 14th - Colorado selected to finish 6th in PAC 12th South
July 14th - MEET THE COMMITS: Marin Catholic tight end/defensive end Sebastian Olver
July 14th - PAC 12 Media Days News & Notes
July 14th Top 10 Returning Sophomores: No. 6
July 14th: Top 10 Returning Redshirt Freshmen: No. 6
July 13th - Inside The War Room
July 13th - New In-State Recruit talks CU interest and recent offer
July 12th - 10 Takeaways from Commitment No. 14
July 12th - Pac 12 Media Days Storylines
July 12th - MEET THE COMMITS: (TX) running back Alex Fontenot
July 12th - Top 10 Returning Seniors: No. 6
July 12th - Top 10 Returning Juniors: No. 6
July 11th - Henderson: 10 Thoughts From The Weekend
July 11th - Top 10 Incoming Players: No. 7
July 11th - Full Q&A with Langston Hughes (GA) linebacker Malik Horton
July 10th - Full Q&A with South Sumter (FL) defensive end/tight end Carson Wells
July 10th - Is Colorado next to offer California Offensive Linemen
July 9th: Top 10 Returning Sophomores: No. 7
July 9th: Top 10 Returning Redshirt Freshmen: No. 7
July 9th - MEET THE COMMITS: Moorpark College cornerback Jalin Burrell
July 8th - Top 10 Junior Countdown: No. 7
July 8th - Top 10 Senior Countdown: No. 7
July 8th - The Rise Report (July 8th)
July 8th - Washington DB Anfernee Gurley hopes offer comes soon
July 8th - July 24th BBQ Invites/Expected to Attend
July 8th - Colorado coaches trying to sway Texas defensive end
July 8th - MEET THE COMMITS: ThunderRidge Offensive Lineman Heston Paige
July 7th - Welcome Brie Thomas to the CUSportsNation.com Staff
July 7th - Top 10 Incoming Players: No. 8
July 7th - Fa'avae Fa'avae Update (he has set up an official visit to Colorado)
July 6th - Inside The War Room (Recruiting Tracker/Offer List)
July 6th - Top 10 Returning Sophomores: No. 8
July 6th - Top 10 Returning Redshirt Freshmen: No. 8
July 5th - Colorado Names Team Captains For 2016 Season
July 5th - Top 10 Senior Countdown: No. 8
July 5th - Top 10 Junior Countdown: No. 8
July 5th - New CU transfer Namon Wright is a threat offensively
July 4th - Henderson's 10 Thoughts From The Weekend
July 4th - 2017 Valor WR Curtis Chiaverini talks ties to CU
July 4th - Top 10 Incoming Freshmen Countdown: No. 9
July 4th - Top 10 Sophomore Countdown: No. 9
July 4th - Top 10 Redshirt Freshman Countdown: No. 9
July 4th - 2018 Speedster Has CU Attention
July 3rd - The Rise Is Real, Meet The Commitments
July 3rd - Patrick Carr To Transfer
July 3rd - Top 10 Senior Countdown: No. 9
July 3rd - Top 10 Junior Countdown: No. 9
July 2nd - Top 10 True Freshmen: No. 10
July 2nd - Mullen Safety Isiahia Banks talks timetable
July 2nd - Top 10 Redshirt Freshmen: No. 10
July 1st - Video: Colorado Football Preview
July 1st - Update on Buff Commit Dante Sparaco
July 1st - Who Will Be Colorado's Toughest Match Up In 2016?
July 1st - Top Colorado In-State 2018 Prospect talks Recruiting
July 1st - Top 10 Senior Countdown: No. 10
July 1st - Top 10 Junior Countdown: No. 10
July 1st - Top 10 Sophomore Countdown: No. 10
Top Colorado Football Player Countdown
Seniors
July 1st - Top 10 Senior Countdown: No. 10
July 3rd - Top 10 Senior Countdown: No. 9
July 5th - Top 10 Senior Countdown: No. 8
July 8th - Top 10 Senior Countdown: No. 7
July 12th - Top 10 Returning Seniors: No. 6
July 18th - Top 10 Returning Seniors: No. 5
July 25th - Top 10 Returning Seniors: No. 4
Juniors
July 1st - Top 10 Junior Countdown: No. 10
July 3rd - Top 10 Junior Countdown: No. 9
July 3rd - Top 10 Junior Countdown: No. 8
July 8th - Top 10 Junior Countdown: No. 7
July 12th - Top 10 Returning Juniors: No. 6
July 21st - Top 10 Returning Juniors: No. 5
July 27th - Top 10 Returning Juniors: No. 4
Sophomores
July 1st - Top 10 Sophomore Countdown: No. 10
July 4th - Top 10 Sophomore Countdown: No. 9
July 6th - Top 10 Returning Sophomores: No. 8
July 9th - Top 10 Returning Sophomores: No. 7
July 14th - Top 10 Returning Sophomores: No. 6
July 22nd - Top 10 Returning Sophomores: No. 5
July 27th - Top 10 Returning Sophomores: No. 4
Redshirt Freshmen
July 2nd - Top 10 Redshirt Freshmen: No. 10
July 4th - Top 10 Redshirt Freshman: No. 9
July 6th - Top 10 Redshirt Freshmen: No. 8
July 9th - Top 10 Redshirt Freshmen: No. 7
July 14th: Top 10 Redshirt Freshmen: No. 6
July 22nd - Top 10 Redshirt Freshmen: No. 5
July 30th - Top 10 Redshirt Freshmen: No. 4
Incoming
July 2nd - Top 10 Incoming Players: No. 10
July 4th - Top 10 Incoming Players: No. 9
July 7th - Top 10 Incoming Players: No. 8
July 11th - Top 10 Incoming Players: No. 7
July 18th - Top 10 Incoming Players: No. 6
July 22nd - Top 10 Incoming Players: No. 5
July 29th - Top 10 Incoming Players: No. 4
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Enjoy and have a great week! Also Brie Thomas starts on Monday, August 1st.
Wrapping up the month of July with 10 thoughts from the weekend. Interesting month filled with learning experiences, new friends, new places, new colorado commitments, and really a month packed with non-stop news. I wanted to again say thank you to all the Buff followers that have stayed on-board here at Rivals and hope that we’ve shown you the subscriber that we are capable of dependable coverage daily.
1. July Recruiting Rewind
Colorado has added on 6 new commitments in the Month of July. The month started off with Isaiah Lewis out of Granite Bay, California pulling the trigger. The 2-star safety chose Colorado over Wyoming and is the third defensive back that Colorado has added from the Class of 2017. "What stood out most (referencing Colorado Coaches) is how they made me feel a part of the team at the camp. They really embraced me and coached me up. They showed me what to do and what not to do.
When we first got to the campus, the facilities were all top of the line. They showed me what it would be like to be a part of the tradition,” Said Lewis to CUSportsNation.com back on the 2nd of July. https://colorado.forums.rivals.com/threads/full-q-a-with-colorados-newest-commit-isaiah-lewis.27024/ The Buffs then added 3-star offensive tackle Grant Polley out of Denton, Texas. Polley is listed at 6-foot-5, 275 pounds and has a tremendous highlight tape. Colorado has added three offensive linemen to the recruiting class, landing Polley was a statement to Colorado’s new recruiting ability in the Lone Star State. Polley had offers from Arizona State, Houston, Indiana, Kansas State, Michigan, Missouri, Oklahoma, and many more before pleading to the Buffs.
10 Takeaways from Grant Polley here https://colorado.rivals.com/news/10-takeaways-from-commitment-14 After Polley committed Colorado went 13 LONG days without a commit, then during the Colorado BBQ Recruiting Weekend Shamar Hamilton out of ASA JC College in Miami Beach, Florida said he’s headed to play for Coach Mike MacIntyre. While he does not have a lot of hype, stars, etc. Hamilton is a 6-foot-5, 235 pound prospect that has speed, size, and seems very mature from the interviews Christian James has published. Here is one of my favorite quotes on Hamilton. When talking about his wrestling experience, “I feel like wrestling changed my life. It puts you into a different mindset on how you have to go hard all the time or you'll get hurt. You have to be ready once you step on the line. There was one kid, Johnny Farentino, who was captain of the wrestling team. He put me into a move that hurt so bad I feel it awakened my manhood.” https://colorado.forums.rivals.com/...commitment-and-his-football-background.28006/
Following the commitment of Hamilton, 6-foot-2, 185 pound Athlete Morrell Osling III committed to Colorado after a weekend visit to Boulder. Osling III has an electrifying highlight tape and while he plays quarterback at the prep level, most feel he will play defensive back when he gets to Colorado. Osling III committed to Colorado over Fresno State, Nevada, New Mexico, and UNLV. When asked why he picked Colorado Osling III said, "I ended up committing after the whole trip at the end of the day. I told my position coach that I felt this is the right decision for me. I talked it over with family and everyone was happy. I told all the commits and it was a great feeling." https://colorado.forums.rivals.com/...rados-latest-commitment-morrell-osling.27961/
Days after the Recruiting BBQ it was William Sherman out of Allen, Texas who committed to Colorado in a big time land. Sherman a 6-foot-3, 290 pound prospect had offers from CAL, Houston, Illinois, Kansas State among many others. Sherman said the bond with the recruits made it an easy decision. "From the first time I talked to them (additional CU Recruits), I knew it was a strong bond and that was even before I had visited. I have been on the DM (via twitter) talking to all of them. We have all been tight since a month ago." https://colorado.rivals.com/news/bond-made-decision-easy-for-sherman
The month of July ended with Danville, California linebacker Nate Landman committing to Colorado. Landman is a 6-foot-3, 212 pound linebacker that offers from Arizona, Boise State, Colorado State, Nevada, Pittsburgh, and many others. Christian James of CUSportsNation.com had this to say about Landman, “The offense might be getting all the headlines within the Class of 2017 but the Buffs got an elite linebacker with Landman. It’s a PAC 12 victory for Colorado, any time you can beat offers from Arizona, Oregon State, and Washington State for a playmaker, it means even more.” https://colorado.forums.rivals.com/...of-monte-vista-linebacker-nate-landman.28219/
2. Gifs of the July Commitments
Isaiah Lewis - Safety
Grant Polley - Offensive Tackle
Shamar Hamilton - Defensive End
Morrell Osling - Athlete
Will Sherman - Offensive Linemen
Nate Landman - Linebacker
3. Who's Next To Commit?
These are your guesses so far on the message board
Casey Roddick - OL - CA
Hyrin White - OL - TX
Jalen Harris - DL - AZ
Fa'avae Fa'avae - LB - CA
Carson Wells - DL - FL
Alex Perry - DB - NV
4. Rivals.com 2017 Team Recruiting Rankings - As of July 31, 2016 Colorado is ranked 25th in the Nation
0 - 5 Stars
2 - 4 Stars
11 - 3 Stars
5 - 2 Stars
Average Star Ranking: 2.83
Highest Rated Rivals.com Recruit
Jaylon Jackson - WR - 5-foot-10, 150 - Cedar Hill, TX - 4 Stars
5. PAC 12 Recruiting by Star Ranking Average
1. UCLA - 4.0 - Total Commitments 3
2. Stanford - 3.6 - Total Commitments 5
3. USC - 3.5 - Total Commitments 10
4. Washington - 3.27 - Total Commitments 11
5. Oregon - 3.27 - Total Commitments 11
6. Arizona State - 3.13 - Total Commitments 3.13
7. CAL - 3.0 - Total Commitments 8
7. Washington State - 3.0 -Total Commitments 11
9. Colorado - 2.83 - Total Commitments 18
10. UTAH - 2.5 - Total Commitments 4
11. Oregon state - 2.46 - Total Commitments 13
12. Arizona - 3.0 - Total Commitments 24
6. Best Posts from the Week
By @brettden27 regarding UCLA De-Commits
Don't know that we need to, or even should try. One of the bug a boos for the Buffs when they last "recruited well" was getting guys that had the numbers but did not have maybe enough substance behind those numbers. Potential stars players, but with some serious warts and/or risks. Not to say those are the guys UCLA is losing, but the guys we need to build and sustain are guys who will stick so long as we hold up our end. We don't need out of this world talent at every recruiting slot, becasue, at least in part, those guys come with a particular set of baggage. And unless you are Saban, $EC or consistently winning on New Years Day it is tough to keep many of those guys around, especially when trying to add them to the same class.
We need to capitalize by staying the course on recruiting PAC12 caliber players, with sturdy foundations, develop those players, create legitimate depth and win games. Then it won't matter what UCLA is or is not doing. Added bonus if we will surprisingly big this year some of the frontrunners will want to jump on board late anyway. So let's just win games.
By @CL34 regarding Colorado Recruiting
Yup, agree on this, CJ. This is a massive step in the right direction. CU not only has not recruited at a high level in recent history but also was one of the last schools to fill up regarding commitments. That approach to recruiting appeared to hinder us from getting a jump on the following year. I recall that some of the most successful schools host junior days the weekends after NSD and get off to a tremendous start in recruiting for the coming year. Meanwhile, we're still trying to find late signees for that class. They're signing four stars for the next year and we're scraping the bottom of the barrel for talent. Our results on the field speak for themselves, and there is no denying the correlation between recruiting success and winning percentage. This new strategy is a total paradigm shift, one many of us have wanted for years.
The NSD rankings will depend on how we close out the class and if we keep everyone signed. I am not sure we end up in the top 25. If I had to wage, we probably finish somewhere among the mid/high 30s in rankings. Ideally, our star average would be over 3.0. We're not there yet.
By @BuffNut91 regarding the Colorado Linebackers
There are a couple keys, will Gilliam stay healthy, will KO continue to improve.and show us why coaches like him, will game slow down for Gamboa and he speed up, will JC Lewis be in the mix, will anyone else on team give quality minutes (Severson, talienko, Shaver), any new freshmen see the field (like Gilliam or Dizon)
Alot of potential I think, let's see if a new S&C and another off season make any of these things happen.
By @NittanyBuff24 regarding Big 12 Expansion
What you can bring to the table drives these things, from a pure region standpoint, which conferences use to be built on, Houston would be a no brainer, but as we have discussed they don't bring anything new! UConn ,Cinci ,Memphis, BYU ,UCF,USF any 4 of those 6 is what I'm looking at for various reasons! CSU "at best" is 7th on that list and I would probably favor someone like UNLV even before them possibly. Houston is obviously ahead of CSU as well imho.. Big 12 should have added Louisville when they added WVU.
By @Buffoneus regarding recent Colorado Commitments
Sherman and Polley together are a significant change in recruiting O linemen for the Buffs. Osling and Hamilton seem like really good athletes, and we're going to get some under the radar guys. So, I voted good stuff.
By CRBuff regarding recent Colorado Commitments
Very excited about Will Sherman. Looks like he will very likely be a beast at guard or center. Hamilton looks like he could be quite good at a position of need, especially with another year to develop at his Juco, and in the weight room. Osling looks like an excellent athlete, with great size and length, who should be able to convert fairly easily to DB, and with a year or two to develop, could be a serious Pac12 corner. Pretty damn satisfied with this most recent trio.
Also sounds like we're very much in on a couple more significant OL prospects, who may decide fairly soon. The recruiting trend is continuing on a really good path.
By @DBBUFF regarding the Linebackers
My grade for the LB is a 'C' based on last year's performance - a fair grade if not high. IMO many factors contributed to that grade - injuries, slow LB, not enough top talent, not making tackles consistently, out of position, etc;.
I know that the LB is a work in progress and that our DC will get them to a higher grade and performance. He is smart, dedicated, talented, and driven to improve the LB corps.
WIth healthy bodies, more experience, more time in DC's defense, and new kids getting chances to play we could improve to a B or more this coming year. Time will tell. In our pass happy conference a lot is expected of the LBs in terms of speed, duty, and athleticism.
Also as the whole D improves, so too will the LB. Even offensive improvement keeps a D off the field more.
I noticed that we will have 7 senior linebackers this year. A great time this year to begin to fill the LB cabinet with lots of fast and athletic talent. I know that we typically use lots of nickel and dime coverages and use more safeties and cornerbacks on the field, but we still need great linebackers - whether they are rushing, covering the middle, or in coverage.
Let's hope for B or better this year.
7. Your Grade For The Colorado Linebackers “C”
Outside Linebackers
Aaron Howard - 6-foot-1, 225, Senior
Deaysean Rippy - 6-foot-2, 235, Senior
Derek McCarney - 6-foot-3, 240, Junior
Jimmie Gilbert - 6-foot-5, 225, Senior
Sam Bennion - 6-foot-5, 230, Freshmen
Terreran Hassellbach - 6-foot-1, 230, Sophomore
Tyler Hennigton - 6-foot-2, 235 - Senior
Mike Linebackers
Addison Gillam - 6-foot-3, 225, Junior
Christian Shaver- 6-foot-3, 235, Junior
Rick Gamboa - 6-foot-0, 230, Sophomore
Jack Linebackers
Kenneth Olugbode - 6-foot-1, 215, Senior
Ryan Severson - 5-foot-10, 210, Senior
Travis Talianko - 6-foot-1, 215, Senior
This week we asked for you to grade the Colorado Linebackers, 54.9 percent of you graded the Buffs’ Linebackers a C. Colorado does return guys like Derek McCarney, Jimmie Gilbert, Rick Gamoba, and Kenneth Olugbode each who played a significant amount of time during the 2015 season. Gamboa, Olugbode, and McCarney combined for 246 total tackles and Jimmie Gilbert led the team in sacks with 6. Addison Gillam missed most of the season due to an injury, but if he is healthy the linebacking unit will be much more effective than in 2015. Link to Poll https://colorado.forums.rivals.com/threads/poll-grade-the-colorado-linebackers.28135/
How does this projection of starting linebackers look going in?
OLB - Derek McCartney
MLB - Addison Gillam
WLB - Kenneth Olugbode
OLB - Jimmie Gilbert
8. Buy or sell questions are generated by CUSportsNation.com subscribers weekly. Here is what users came up with this week.
If we go bowling we lose one of Chev, Leavitt or Mac?
Sell. Colorado goes to a Bowl Game this year, this trio is going to be around for a while. Now if they don’t go to a Bowl Game that could be another story.
Lindsay leading the team in rushing?
Buy. Think Lindsay is due for another big year and while I don’t think he’ll hit 1K yards wise, I do think he’ll continue to prove he is dependable.
Gillam starting every game this year?
Sell. It’s a long season and linebackers bang heads.
CU Buff being all Pac-12?
Buy. Chidobe or Tedric, maybe both. Really think those two are going to turn heads throughout the season.
9. Storylines going into Fall Camp
Colorado's first official practices starts on Thursday, August 4th, 2016. More on that to come. Here are some quick storylines going in.
Quarterbacks - How will Sefo Liufau look mobility wise after his injury? Who will emerge as the No. 2 Quarterback? Jordan Gehrke or Steven Montez? Will we see any Wildcat packages for Jaleel Awini? How will Sam Noyer fit in competition wise?
Running Backs - Will Phillip Lindsay enter and end fall camp as the No. 1 RB? How will Michael Adkins II and Donovan Lee step up to replace the loss of Patrick Carr? Where will True Freshmen Beau Bisharat be on the depth chart?
Receivers - Who is going to step up and replace Spruce? Will both JC transfer Kabion Ento and and Juwann Winfree make instant impacts? Who else will emerge at this position?
Tight Ends - Sean Irwin returns for senior season, where will George Fraizer play? Expecting Dylan Keeney to rise up.
Offensive Line - Alex Kelley returns, will RS freshmen Tim Lynott Jr. Start? How will Jeromy Irwin look? Will Gerred Kough or Jonathan Huckins step up to become junior leaders?
Defensive Line - How will Josh Tupou impact the defensive instantly, Jordan Carrell returns for senior year, Leo Jackson III should have strong junior campaign, what is the status on Samson Kafovalu?
Linebackers - How will Addison Gillam look returning from injury, Jimmie Gilbert, Kenneth Olugbode, and Rick Gamboa all return. The depth chart changes here will be interesting to watch.
Defensive Backs - Chidobe and Tedric are dynamic duo, tons of experience in this area, will Isaiah Oliver be Colorado’s next big time Corner, who will start between Ryan Moeller and Afolabi Laguda?
Special Teams - Alex Kinney returns at punter, Diego Gonzales is now a senior, who will emerge as special teams weapons?
More on Fall Camp this week!
10. July Content Rewind
July 30th - 10 takeaways from Colorado's new commitment Nate Landman
July 30th - Buffs in play for elite '18 prospect
July 30th - Colorado in Top 7 for Cotton
July 29th - Jalen Harris has high marks for Colorado trip
July 29th - The Rise Report, Recruiting Updates
July 29th - Top Incoming Freshmen Johnny Huntley
July 28th - Colorado quietly building strong recruiting class
July 28th - Video: Analysis of Colorado Quarterback Tyler Lytle
July 27th - Bond made decision easy for Sherman
July 27th - Tyler Lytle raves about time in Boulder, BBQ
July 26th - Colorado lands commitment No. 17
July 26th - Commitment Rundowns/Latest Updates
July 26th - Ray Robinson talks about why he hasn't officially committed to Colorado
July 25th - 2017 ThunderRidge OL Heston Paige talks BBQ and selling points of Boulder
July 25th - Antelope Valley head coach talks about new CU commit Morrell Osling III
July 25th - ASA College DE Shamar Hamilton talks CU commitment and his football background
July 24th - Ten Takeaways from ASA College defensive end Shamar Hamilton's commitment
July 24th - Q&A with Colorado's latest commitment, Morrell Osling
July 24th - St. Bonaventure OL Casey Roddick talks CU trip and decision timetable
July 24th - Highlands Ranch S Ray Robinson talks about why he hasn't officially committed
July 24th - Murrieta Valley WR Maurice Bell recaps BBQ recruiting day
July 24th - 2017 Denton DB Chris Miller recaps time in Boulder
July 24th - George Ranch RB Alex Fontenot discusses what he learned from BBQ trip
July 24th - Cedar Hill WR Jaylon Jackson talks time in Boulder
July 23rd - BBQ Notes, Updates, More
July 22nd - Recruiting BBQ Preview
July 22nd - McElroy talks Colorado
July 22nd - Top 10 Returning Redshirt Freshmen: No. 5
July 21st - 4 Star Defensive Back Planning to visit CU
July 21st - Top 10 Returning Juniors: No. 5 Devin Ross
July 21st - Change of plans could lead to a new CU commit?
July 21st - Mataele fell in love with Boulder
July 20th - MEET THE COMMITS: Servite quarterback Tyler Lytle
July 20th - Inside The War Room
July 20th - Sounds like Josh Falo will be attending the BBQ
July 19th - Tuesday July 19th Recruiting/Offer Recap
July 19th - FULL Q&A with the newest CU offeree, Antelope Valley athlete Morrell Osling III
July 19th - Colorado Offers 2018 Texas WR, Good Relationship With...
July 18th - Top 10 Returning Seniors: No. 5
July 18th - Top 10 Incoming Players: No. 6
July 18th - California Running Back to visit CU
July 17th - Henderson: 10 Thoughts From the Weekend
July 17th - MEET THE COMMITS: Cherry Creek linebacker Jonathan Van Diest
July 16th - Arizona RB/LB shines at Colorado camp
July 16th - Video: Colorado QB Commit Tyler Lytle vs Redondo Beach Saturday
July 15th - Mike MacIntyre talks about what has helped build a strong recruiting class
July 15th - Chidobe Awuzie on Colorado's defense
July 15th - Sefo is ready, thoughts on the new offensive weapons
July 15th - Experience provides confidence for Buffs
July 15th - Edward Lewis of Rivals.com Recap Of Colorado At Media Day
July 15th - Colorado selected to finish sixth in the Pac-12 South in media poll
July 15th - Photos Gallery from PAC 12 Media Day
July 14th - Colorado selected to finish 6th in PAC 12th South
July 14th - MEET THE COMMITS: Marin Catholic tight end/defensive end Sebastian Olver
July 14th - PAC 12 Media Days News & Notes
July 14th Top 10 Returning Sophomores: No. 6
July 14th: Top 10 Returning Redshirt Freshmen: No. 6
July 13th - Inside The War Room
July 13th - New In-State Recruit talks CU interest and recent offer
July 12th - 10 Takeaways from Commitment No. 14
July 12th - Pac 12 Media Days Storylines
July 12th - MEET THE COMMITS: (TX) running back Alex Fontenot
July 12th - Top 10 Returning Seniors: No. 6
July 12th - Top 10 Returning Juniors: No. 6
July 11th - Henderson: 10 Thoughts From The Weekend
July 11th - Top 10 Incoming Players: No. 7
July 11th - Full Q&A with Langston Hughes (GA) linebacker Malik Horton
July 10th - Full Q&A with South Sumter (FL) defensive end/tight end Carson Wells
July 10th - Is Colorado next to offer California Offensive Linemen
July 9th: Top 10 Returning Sophomores: No. 7
July 9th: Top 10 Returning Redshirt Freshmen: No. 7
July 9th - MEET THE COMMITS: Moorpark College cornerback Jalin Burrell
July 8th - Top 10 Junior Countdown: No. 7
July 8th - Top 10 Senior Countdown: No. 7
July 8th - The Rise Report (July 8th)
July 8th - Washington DB Anfernee Gurley hopes offer comes soon
July 8th - July 24th BBQ Invites/Expected to Attend
July 8th - Colorado coaches trying to sway Texas defensive end
July 8th - MEET THE COMMITS: ThunderRidge Offensive Lineman Heston Paige
July 7th - Welcome Brie Thomas to the CUSportsNation.com Staff
July 7th - Top 10 Incoming Players: No. 8
July 7th - Fa'avae Fa'avae Update (he has set up an official visit to Colorado)
July 6th - Inside The War Room (Recruiting Tracker/Offer List)
July 6th - Top 10 Returning Sophomores: No. 8
July 6th - Top 10 Returning Redshirt Freshmen: No. 8
July 5th - Colorado Names Team Captains For 2016 Season
July 5th - Top 10 Senior Countdown: No. 8
July 5th - Top 10 Junior Countdown: No. 8
July 5th - New CU transfer Namon Wright is a threat offensively
July 4th - Henderson's 10 Thoughts From The Weekend
July 4th - 2017 Valor WR Curtis Chiaverini talks ties to CU
July 4th - Top 10 Incoming Freshmen Countdown: No. 9
July 4th - Top 10 Sophomore Countdown: No. 9
July 4th - Top 10 Redshirt Freshman Countdown: No. 9
July 4th - 2018 Speedster Has CU Attention
July 3rd - The Rise Is Real, Meet The Commitments
July 3rd - Patrick Carr To Transfer
July 3rd - Top 10 Senior Countdown: No. 9
July 3rd - Top 10 Junior Countdown: No. 9
July 2nd - Top 10 True Freshmen: No. 10
July 2nd - Mullen Safety Isiahia Banks talks timetable
July 2nd - Top 10 Redshirt Freshmen: No. 10
July 1st - Video: Colorado Football Preview
July 1st - Update on Buff Commit Dante Sparaco
July 1st - Who Will Be Colorado's Toughest Match Up In 2016?
July 1st - Top Colorado In-State 2018 Prospect talks Recruiting
July 1st - Top 10 Senior Countdown: No. 10
July 1st - Top 10 Junior Countdown: No. 10
July 1st - Top 10 Sophomore Countdown: No. 10
Top Colorado Football Player Countdown
Seniors
July 1st - Top 10 Senior Countdown: No. 10
July 3rd - Top 10 Senior Countdown: No. 9
July 5th - Top 10 Senior Countdown: No. 8
July 8th - Top 10 Senior Countdown: No. 7
July 12th - Top 10 Returning Seniors: No. 6
July 18th - Top 10 Returning Seniors: No. 5
July 25th - Top 10 Returning Seniors: No. 4
Juniors
July 1st - Top 10 Junior Countdown: No. 10
July 3rd - Top 10 Junior Countdown: No. 9
July 3rd - Top 10 Junior Countdown: No. 8
July 8th - Top 10 Junior Countdown: No. 7
July 12th - Top 10 Returning Juniors: No. 6
July 21st - Top 10 Returning Juniors: No. 5
July 27th - Top 10 Returning Juniors: No. 4
Sophomores
July 1st - Top 10 Sophomore Countdown: No. 10
July 4th - Top 10 Sophomore Countdown: No. 9
July 6th - Top 10 Returning Sophomores: No. 8
July 9th - Top 10 Returning Sophomores: No. 7
July 14th - Top 10 Returning Sophomores: No. 6
July 22nd - Top 10 Returning Sophomores: No. 5
July 27th - Top 10 Returning Sophomores: No. 4
Redshirt Freshmen
July 2nd - Top 10 Redshirt Freshmen: No. 10
July 4th - Top 10 Redshirt Freshman: No. 9
July 6th - Top 10 Redshirt Freshmen: No. 8
July 9th - Top 10 Redshirt Freshmen: No. 7
July 14th: Top 10 Redshirt Freshmen: No. 6
July 22nd - Top 10 Redshirt Freshmen: No. 5
July 30th - Top 10 Redshirt Freshmen: No. 4
Incoming
July 2nd - Top 10 Incoming Players: No. 10
July 4th - Top 10 Incoming Players: No. 9
July 7th - Top 10 Incoming Players: No. 8
July 11th - Top 10 Incoming Players: No. 7
July 18th - Top 10 Incoming Players: No. 6
July 22nd - Top 10 Incoming Players: No. 5
July 29th - Top 10 Incoming Players: No. 4
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Enjoy and have a great week! Also Brie Thomas starts on Monday, August 1st.
