The Rocky Mountain Showdown from a Colorado Buff's Perspective

As what is annually the biggest game in Colorado college football—the Rocky Mountain Showdown—gets closer to kickoff, the anticipation is building for both Colorado State and University of Colorado fans.  The Buffs and their Boulder faithful believe the Rams are just a speedbump to begin their season, just as CSU fans know a win over CU would be not only a great way to start the season, but will wake some national media up as well.

I recently collaborated with the Colorado Buffaloes Examiner, Chris Jackson, as we both asked questions about the other’s respective team in order to receive better insight.  The following are my questions for Chris and his candid and forthright answers.

1. CU started 3-0 in 2008, only to finish 5-7, but, their schedule was extremely tough. This year, the Buffs out-of-conference games are against relatively weak opponents in Wyoming and Toledo, and even though the Big-12 looks strong again as usual, do you think the Buffaloes can improve on that record this season?

I think it is very reasonable to believe that Colorado can improve on last year’s record.  Assuming all goes well in the Rocky Mountain Showdown, the Buffaloes should be 3-0 entering conference play.  From that point, there are at least three winnable games on the schedule.  If CU finishes with a 6-6 record and a bowl bid I would consider that to be a successful season.

2. Head Coach Dan Hawkins is coming into his fourth year at CU, and at 13-24 overall and 8-16 against the Big-12, what is his standing in Boulder now?  What do fans, alumni, and students think of him?

I can’t say that I have heard any rumors, but, in my opinion, this is a crucial year for Dan Hawkins at Colorado.  Throwing out his first season, when he had no quarterback and little talent, Coach Hawk is 11-14 over the past two years.  He is slowly but surely replenishing the talent, but they are still not at the level to challenge for the Big 12 North.  I don’t think Hawkins is on the hot seat entering the season, but if CU does not get a bowl bid, his rear end may start to feel a little toasty.

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