It's no secret that protecting quarterback Shedur Sanders is critical for the Colorado State football team to make a jump this year.
New offensive line coach Phil Loadholt heard that message during his interview with head coach Deion Sanders, who is also the quarterback's father.
“Oh, he made that clear. He made that very clear,” Rodholt said.
CU needs a lot of work to improve in that area, as Shedule Sanders was the most sacked quarterback in the country last year. But Rodholt's first impressions of the group were positive.
CU began spring football Monday with the first of 15 practices, but it was also Lord Holt's first opportunity to address the media since taking over in the offseason.
Not only do the Buffs have a new coach for their linemen, but they also have a bunch of new linemen.
Coach Prime made overhauling the line a priority this offseason and accomplished it with five transfers. He also acquired the No. 1 high school offensive line recruit in the country in Jordan Seaton.
Seaton, who is 6-foot-5 and weighs 285 pounds, is off to a strong start.
“He’s a freshman coming out of high school, so his knowledge is quite extensive,” Loadholt said. “He's a student of the game. He works hard, gets up and watches film and does everything he's supposed to do. That's the most impressive part of him.
“Obviously, physically you can see he's progressing. But his mental part was impressive.”
The overhaul included transfers such as Kahlil Benson (Indiana State) and Justin Meyers (UTEP), who are already in leadership roles.
“They're setting the standard,” Rodholt said. “Coach Prime says the standard is the standard and they're part of setting that standard in our room. … They're playing a lot of ball and they're giving us a lot of experience. I've relied on them as well, just to set the standard for the room, but I've relied on their experience as well. So it's good to have them here.”
A mirror that makes an impression
Sophomore receiver Omarion Miller teased Buffs fans with his potential last season when he caught seven passes for 196 yards and one touchdown (all in the second half) against USC.
The 6-2, 195-pound hitter has been attracting attention this offseason.
“He's a dude,” Liberty transfer Preston Hodge said, calling Miller the most impressive outside receiver he's ever covered.
“I like Omarion Miller. I'm starting to fall in love with Omarion Miller,” first-year receivers coach Jason Phillips said. He's going to be and obviously be the player he expects to be. He's taking the right steps towards that.”
Ready
The offseason process actually began in January, but transfer receiver Rajontay Wester said there was a different feel once the first practice began.
“Well, the energy is definitely up,” said Wester, who came to UC from Atlantic Florida. “We got back to playing soccer, which is what we came to this school for. The juices were flowing, everyone was jumping around, everyone was excited, there was so much energy.”
Pay attention to
Defensive ends coach Vincent Dancy announced that defensive end Arden Walker will be sidelined after undergoing hand surgery. … Phillips said the Buffs are short on receiver talent, including an injury to senior Jimmy Horn Jr., who caught 58 passes for 567 yards and six touchdowns last season. … Cornerback/receiver Travis Hunter practiced at cornerback on Monday, but Phillips said Hunter could be a receiver on Wednesday. Asked about his plans with Hunter, Phillips said, “Travis is Travis and that's the plan. As long as Travis shows up in the building, we have Travis.” … Last year's seniors train for pro scouts CU's annual Pro Timing Day will be held on Tuesday.
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