Over the next three weeks, BSN Buffs will be breaking down our top 20 Colorado Buffaloes entering the fall of 2017. These rankings were voted on by BSN Buffs editor Jake Shapiro and staff Chase Howell and Sam Weaver.
It should come as no surprise that the man atop our list of Colorado Buffaloes is star running back Phil Lindsay. The ‘Tasmanian Devil’ has spun a promising college career into what some have dubbed a potential Heisman campaign in 2017.
After redshirting his freshman season, Lindsay has seen the field in every game over the last three years. He has led the team in rushing for the past two seasons, and enters his senior year as the undisputed starter at running back. Elected team captain for the third consecutive season, Lindsay has been a leader of the offense and of the Buffaloes throughout his career at Colorado.
An absolute wrecking ball on the ground, Lindsay racked up 1,252 yards and 16 touchdowns on 244 carries last season. He also contributed to the passing game despite an incredible amount of talent at receiver, finishing as the fourth most productive receiver on the CU roster with 493 yards and a touchdown.
Lindsay’s success on the ground has a definite correlation with the Buffs ability to win. In CU’s four losses last season, Lindsay failed to eclipse 63 yards and scored only once. As we started to say midway through the season, as Phil goes the Buffs go.
This season will see redshirt sophomore Steven Montez take the reigns at quarterback following Sefo Liufau’s departure to the NFL. As Montez continues to develop his chemistry with the Buffs receivers, the offense may lean even more heavily on Lindsay and the run game to ease the transition. Lindsay could prove even more dangerous this season if he sees an uptick in touches.
Lindsay’s speed and athleticism set him apart, but he has also made significant contributions as a blocker, protecting the quarterback and doing his part to extend every play. Lindsay puts the offense on his back with each snap, and has proven a key part of rushing, receiving and pass protection.
Colorado’s star rusher has proven his potential as an every-down back and his ability to carry the Buffaloes to victory. This season, as the Buffs look to return to a bowl game, Lindsay could prove the greatest weapon in an offense bursting with veteran talent.
Aside, we’re not the only ones that buy into Lindsay having a huge 2017 as he’s been named to the preseason Maxwell Award Watchlist.
