QB Tyler Hansen (#9) is named the starter over the coach's son
In a long-overdue move, Colorado Coach Dan Hawkins finally demoted his son and former starter Cody Hawkins to 2nd string. QB Tyler Hansen emerged from the younger Hawkins’ shadow and stole the starting job. Colorado fans have always favored Hansen over Hawkins and look forward to him bringing back some swagger to a team that was 3-9 last season.
With Hawkins on the hot seat and fans clamoring for a coaching change, it’s safe to say that Hansen will be on a short leash with Hawkins pulling tight on the reigns. Hawkins is notorious for switching starters mid-season as he did so last year after Cody’s lack luster performances. In 2009, Hansen finally stepped in for the final seven games, but the team still had a meltdown and couldn’t find much success.
Cody Hawkins has been a longtime staple in Boulder compiling 6186 yards with 49 TDs in the air. Unfortunately, his 38 INTs in 3 seasons is nothing to brag about. Regardless of who is under center, Coach Hawkins will have to find a way to protect his QBs. The O-line returns every starter, but this may not be a good thing. Last season the group gave up 44 sacks and the running game was stalled to 2.78 yards per carry average.
This team has what it takes to be average. Even though Hansen emerged victorious in the QB battle, it’s assured you will see the 3rd string QB playing at some point in the season. With a weak O-line, average quarterbacks under center, and a porous defense, Colorado’s stampede is headed straight to the barnyard as there are too many deficiencies in 2010 for the Buffaloes to merge out of mediocrity.
