Sports
Colorado Buffaloes’ Wester Prepares for Arizona Clash Amidst Injuries
Colorado Buffaloes‘ wide receiver, LaJohntay Wester, is gearing up for a crucial game against Arizona this Saturday. Known for his detailed preparation, Wester even rehearses his touchdown celebrations. “Yeah, I’ll definitely be at home practicing, because I already know, man,” he revealed. “When I get it, I’m trying to score and football is entertainment.”
Despite a notable decrease in his statistical output, Wester has been instrumental for the Buffaloes this season. The senior, who transferred from Florida Atlantic, has caught 26 passes for 318 yards, significantly lower than his previous record at FAU. However, he leads the team with seven touchdowns. “Coming here, I knew I wasn’t going to get as much touches, so I have to capitalize on every touch,” Wester explained.
The Buffaloes, holding a 4-2 record under head coach Deion Sanders, are set to play in front of a packed stadium in Arizona. This marks the 17th time in 19 games that CU has played to a sold-out crowd. “The fans have been incredible,” commented Jason Phillips, receivers coach.
In contrast, the team is grappling with challenges at the wide receiver position due to injuries sustained during the recent loss to Kansas State. Key players Travis Hunter and Jimmy Horn Jr. were among four receivers injured. While Hunter and Horn are expected to return soon, Omarion Miller and Terrell Timmons Jr. will remain sidelined. “I never had that situation happen to me before,” remarked Phillips. “But the backups stepped in and did a great job.”
Phillips expressed confidence in the team’s depth and resilience, reflecting that the receivers have been adequately prepared. “That’s why you coach them all,” he asserted. “You get everybody ready to play. I’m not bothered by that at all because those guys stepped in and did the job we all expected.”
In defense, cornerback Colton Hood has been making strides after transferring from Auburn. Despite playing behind starters, Hood has been influential, contributing 10 tackles and securing his first collegiate interception against Kansas State. “Just learning from all the older guys and Coach Prime (Deion Sanders) makes me better every day,” Hood shared.
Meanwhile, true freshman Drelon Miller has emerged as a versatile player for the team. While primarily a receiver, Miller started two games as a tailback. “I wanted to be used like a Deebo Samuel type of player,” Miller stated.
These revelations underscore both the excitement and the challenges currently facing the Colorado Buffaloes ahead of their match against Arizona.