The 2024 Colorado Buffaloes are gearing up for an exciting season with a running back room filled with talent and potential. Running backs coach Gary Harrell recently shared his thoughts on the depth and versatility of this year’s squad, emphasizing the competitive yet collaborative atmosphere that characterizes the group.
“This year we have depth, you know, from Charlie [Offerdahl] who’s a walk-on, who’s going to have the opportunity to show what he can do. From the two transfers Dallan Hayden and Isaiah [Augustave]. You know they add some different things to the room,” Harrell stated.
A Blend of Experience and Youth
The Buffaloes’ running back roster is a mix of experienced transfers and promising newcomers. Charlie Offerdahl, a dedicated walk-on, has earned the respect and trust of his coaches and teammates. His work ethic and performance have positioned him as a leader within the unit.
The addition of transfers Dallan Hayden and Isaiah Augustave has infused new energy into the room. Hayden, known for his agility and ability to catch the ball out of the backfield, and Augustave, a bigger body who can power through tackles, bring different skill sets that complement each other and the team’s offensive strategy.
“When you got a young guy like Micah [Welch] even though he was here in the spring, but he’s still fresh out of high school. He did some good things in the spring. And then Brandon Hood who just came out of high school. So with those guys I feel good. We can plug those guys in. They know their assignments,” Harrell elaborated.
Fresh Faces Making an Impact
Micah Welch, despite being a recent high school graduate, has already made a mark during spring practices. His performance indicates a readiness to compete at a high level, and his versatility adds another dimension to the offense. Brandon Hood, another talented newcomer, is expected to follow suit, contributing to the dynamic nature of the backfield.
“Like I said, the room has great chemistry. There’s a friendly competition. But they know, like at this point you got to start to separate yourself. But we have different elements in the room. You know Isaiah he brings a bigger body. But we got guys that can run in between the tackles. Guys that can catch the ball with Micah and Dallan the transfer kid,” Harrell pointed out.
Building Chemistry with Shedeur Sanders
A key factor in determining playing time will be the running backs’ ability to build chemistry with starting quarterback Shedeur Sanders. Harrell emphasized the importance of this relationship, noting that each back will have opportunities to work with Sanders during practice.
“But I feel good about it, they’re great kids. They learn well and they compete,” Harrell said. “Like they all will get a chance to go with the ones, you know Charlie, he earned it. He deserves it. He’ll be the guy that leads the reps.”
Throughout the early practices, each running back will have the chance to showcase their skills and establish a rapport with Sanders. This process is critical in ensuring that the offense operates smoothly and effectively.
“But then as we go through practice, Micah will get a chance to go with Shedeur. The two transfers Isaiah and Dallan, they’ll get a chance to go with Shedeur as well somewhere throughout practice. So once we go through a week, maybe a week and a half, we’ll find that chemistry. But I’m going to give them opportunity, they have to make sure they make Shedeur feel comfortable with them in the game,” Harrell explained.
Conclusion
The 2024 season looks promising for the Colorado Buffaloes’ running back room. With a blend of seasoned transfers, eager newcomers, and a strong sense of competition and camaraderie, the stage is set for an exciting and productive year. Coach Gary Harrell’s approach to fostering this talent will undoubtedly play a crucial role in the team’s success as they aim to make a significant impact in the upcoming season.
