In a surprising turn of events during the early weeks of the college football season, the University of Colorado has decided to elevate Ryan Staub to the starting quarterback position for their upcoming game against Houston. This decision comes after Staub’s impressive performance against Delaware, where he completed 7 of 10 passes for 157 yards and two touchdowns. Sources close to the team have confirmed that Staub, who began the season as the third-string quarterback, will take the reins on Friday night.
Unexpected Rise to Prominence
Ryan Staub’s ascent to the starting role is particularly noteworthy given the depth of talent at the quarterback position for Colorado. Initially, he was overshadowed by veteran Kaidon Salter and highly-touted freshman Julian Lewis. Salter entered the season with a commendable 23-6 record as a starter, while Lewis, ranked No. 12 overall in the Class of 2025, enrolled early to compete for a spot on the team.
However, after a disappointing season opener against Georgia Tech, where Colorado struggled to find its rhythm, the coaching staff opted to rotate quarterbacks during their subsequent game against Delaware. Staub’s standout performance not only caught the attention of the coaching staff but also showcased his potential as a leader on the field.
Coach Sanders’ Confidence in Staub
During a media availability session, Coach Deion Sanders acknowledged that a final decision regarding the starting quarterback had not yet been made. Nevertheless, he expressed confidence in Staub’s abilities and praised his decision to remain with the team rather than enter the transfer portal. Sanders described Staub as “a great human being” and hinted at a clear direction for the quarterback situation moving forward.
Staub’s journey to this point has not been without challenges. He had previously started one game in 2023, stepping in for the injured Shedeur Sanders against Utah, where he completed 17 of 24 passes and threw a touchdown pass to standout receiver Travis Hunter. His ability to seize opportunities has been a hallmark of his career thus far.
Performance Under Pressure
In the game against Delaware, Staub demonstrated his poise under pressure, executing a touchdown drive during a two-minute drill to close the first half. He opened the second half with a stunning 71-yard touchdown pass to Sincere Brown, further solidifying his case for the starting role. Staub reflected on his unexpected opportunity, stating, “To be honest, this whole week, I wasn’t really expecting to play. Friday, I kind of got the call and, OK, I might be playing. I was just waiting on an opportunity.”
His performance not only impressed the coaching staff but also resonated with fans who have been eager to see how the Buffaloes would navigate their quarterback situation. With Salter completing 68.2% of his passes and contributing to the team’s offense with one touchdown and two rushing touchdowns, the competition for the starting role has been fierce.
Future Implications for Colorado Football
As Colorado prepares for its matchup against Houston, the decision to start Staub could have significant implications for the team’s trajectory this season. The Buffaloes are looking to bounce back from their early-season struggles and establish a more consistent offensive identity. Staub’s ability to lead the team effectively could be a turning point in their campaign.
Moreover, the decision reflects a broader trend in college football, where coaching staffs are increasingly willing to make bold moves in response to player performance. The transfer portal has changed the landscape of college athletics, allowing players to seek opportunities elsewhere if they feel underutilized. Staub’s choice to remain with Colorado, despite being a third-string quarterback, speaks volumes about his character and commitment to the program.
Looking Ahead
As the Buffaloes gear up for their game against Houston, all eyes will be on Staub to see if he can replicate his success against Delaware. The stakes are high, and the pressure is palpable, but Staub’s recent performance has instilled a sense of optimism among fans and teammates alike. Coach Sanders has made it clear that he has a plan for the quarterback situation, and Staub’s emergence as a starter could be a pivotal moment in the season.
In conclusion, Ryan Staub’s unexpected rise to the starting quarterback position for Colorado is a testament to his resilience and talent. As the Buffaloes prepare to face Houston, the football community will be watching closely to see how this young quarterback handles the challenges ahead. With a mix of experience and youthful exuberance, Staub has the potential to lead Colorado to new heights this season.
