Are the lights too bright?
Will Colorado’s shine dazzle San Antonio, overshadow BYU and the Alamo Bowl scene? Or will it boil down to blocking, tackling, catching and running?
There are all the events, activities, media sessions, fun and games, dinners and face-to-face meetings. It would be easy for Colorado’s star-filled glitter wave to simply bowl over BYU’s traveling contingent with its luminescence before kickoff.
“Prime Time” is on the doorstep. And so is all the attention legendary Deion Sanders’ show brings with it.
Certainly before the actual game, there’s going to be a wave of Buff Buff. It will be fun.
“They have tons of talent,” said BYU coach Kalani Sitake. “Their defense doesn’t get enough credit because their offense has been so good. It’s a difficult matchup for us, we’ll need to have a complete game from all three phases.”
Here’s a detailed analysis on how BYU can beat Colorado in the 2024 Alamo Bowl.
Game strategy, execution
BYU’s path to victory hinges on a strategic game plan that leverages its strengths while capitalizing on Colorado’s potential weaknesses. BYU’s defense, ranked No. 1 in defensive efficiency in the Big 12, should be the cornerstone. This defense, allowing only 4.9 yards per play, 317 yards per game and 20.08 points on average, must focus on containing Colorado’s explosive offense which leads the nation in offensive efficiency with 6.1 yards per play, 397.6 yards per game and 34.5 points per game.
The key here is to disrupt the rhythm of Colorado’s quarterback, Shedeur Sanders, known for his ability to both pass and scramble effectively. BYU’s defensive line needs to maintain consistent pressure, forcing Sanders off his primary reads and into making hurried decisions or mistakes.
Control clock, game pace
Kansas did it, why can’t BYU? The Jayhawks created the blueprint on how to beat Colorado when they pulled it off Nov. 23 by a score of 37-21. They played hide and seek.
BYU should aim to control the pace of the game through a balanced offensive strategy. While Colorado is known for its high-octane offense, BYU can counteract this by focusing on time-consuming drives.
Folks hate it because BYU is better when it goes fast in a two-minute type drill offense. But this game doesn’t call for a shootout — just the opposite.
BYU’s offense should lean on its running game to keep the ball away from Colorado’s offense. This approach not only limits the time Colorado has the ball, but also keeps its defense on the field longer, potentially leading to fatigue. Efficient third-down conversions will be crucial, ensuring that BYU doesn’t give the ball back to Colorado quickly. Long, methodical drives could wear down the Buffaloes’ defense, especially if BYU can keep the game within a close margin or take an early lead.
Exploit Colorado’s defensive vulnerabilities
Despite Colorado’s offensive prowess, its defense has shown vulnerabilities, particularly against teams with a strong ground game. BYU should exploit this by running a mix of power runs and outside zones, using its offensive line to create lanes for the running backs.
“They have tons of talent. Their defense doesn’t get enough credit because their offense has been so good. It’s a difficult matchup for us, we’ll need to have a complete game from all three phases.”
— BYU coach Kalani Sitake on Colorado
The Cougars’ offensive line has been solid in blocking for the run, and if the Cougars can establish dominance in the trenches, this could open up the passing game when Colorado adjusts to stop the run. Jake Retzlaff, BYU’s quarterback, should look for opportunities to throw when the defense commits to stopping the run, using play-action to hit open receivers downfield.
Halftime adjustments, momentum
Momentum in the Alamo Bowl could be pivotal. Posts on X suggest that if BYU can keep the game close or lead at halftime, it has a good chance of winning due to the Cougars’ ability to make effective halftime adjustments.
The coaching staff must be prepared to counter whatever Colorado throws at them in the second half. This means having a flexible game plan, perhaps shifting focus if something isn’t working or if they identify a new weakness in Colorado’s defense.
Special teams, avoiding big mistakes
Special teams play can often be the difference in bowl games. BYU must ensure its special teams units are sharp, with no room for errors like muffed punts or missed field goals. Moreover, the Cougars must play disciplined football, minimizing turnovers and penalties, which have been costly in previous games. Colorado, with its dynamic players, can turn any mistake into points quickly.
Mental toughness, crowd support
Lastly, mental toughness will be key. Playing in the Alamodome against a high-profile team like Colorado requires resilience. BYU needs to stay focused and not be overwhelmed by the moment or the media attention on Colorado’s stars, Shedeur Sanders and Heisman winner Travis Hunter.
Support from BYU fans, even though the game is away, can boost the team’s morale. Ultimately, the players must perform under pressure and execute their game plan with precision.
“I’m for sure playing,” said junior BYU star receiver Chase Roberts. “It’s a chance to go up against the best athletes in the country and see what we can do.”
In conclusion, for BYU to emerge victorious, they must combine excellent defensive play, a controlled offensive pace, strategic adjustments, and avoid self-inflicted errors. This combination could lead BYU over Colorado.