Nick Saban evaluates Colorado after Week 1 win over North Dakota State

Following their opener on Thursday, Nick Saban has given his first impression of Colorado this season.

Saban spoke about the Buffaloes’ debut in their 31-26 over North Dakota State during his appearance on ‘The Pat McAfee Show’ on Friday. He started with their offense as he liked their clear talent at the skill positions. However, he does think they need to even out their attack with more of a run game.

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“Well, I think that – a couple things,” said Saban. “First of all, I think they got better skill guys to go with the quarterback, which I think is going to be important.”

“I think they need to try to improve their ability to run the ball because they didn’t have much balance last night, which showed up at the end of the game when they couldn’t take the air out of it and gave the ball back to North Dakota State,” Saban said.

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Of the 504 yards of offense for Colorado, 445 were through the air with just 59 on the ground. It was a great night in passing from Shedeur Sanders but the unit had its issues with just 2.6 yards a rush. That arguably nearly cost them in the end too with how their final possession went as Saban noted.

As for the defense, Saban thinks the Buffs were better on that end. He just wonders how good they can be on that side regardless, though, with that offensive approach.

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“I do think their defense might be a little bit improved. Now, whether it’s good enough, I don’t know,” said Saban. “You have to be a really good defense to play with that kind of offense who has to throw the ball all the time. Just like they probably gave up 90 yards at the end of the game that the other team shouldn’t have ever had the ball.”

Colorado did allow 449 yards last night to NDSU. The Bison moved it at nearly eight yards per play while staying on the field on third and fourth down. In the end, it was a so-so outing for the Buffalo defense with some moments yet plenty to work on.

All in all, Colorado will take the five-point opening victory over that high-quality opponent from the FCS. Saban thinks it was a decent start too in what could end up being a good year in Boulder.

“You know, I think they’re improved,” said Saban. “Are they improved enough to have a winning season? I hope so.”