After Northwestern put up 41 points, Colorado defensive coordinator Chris Marve reassessed his approach. The Buffaloes responded with a more team-oriented, attacking defense that has generated pressure and limited opponents’ rushing success. Now they face Oklahoma State’s high-powered offense, with sustaining energy for all four quarters a key test.

By the Numbers
  • Colorado has recorded 53 tackles for loss in 6 games — 8.8 per game.
  • Oklahoma State averages 517.7 yards and 37.2 points per game.
  • Quarterback Drew Mestemaker leads the Big 12 with 1,940 passing yards and averages 9.6 yards per attempt.
  • Colorado opponents average 70.8 plays per game; Utah ran 80 plays and held the ball for 37 minutes.
Yes, But

Colorado’s defense has improved, but the Buffaloes acknowledge they can wear down after opponents reach roughly 50 plays. That concern looms against an Oklahoma State offense that leads the Big 12 in total offense and averages 71.5 plays per game.

State of Play
  • Colorado has allowed 23, 29 and 27 points in its 3 games since the Northwestern loss; 7 of Texas Tech’s points came on an interception return.
  • The defense is adapting to linebacker Tyler Martinez’s absence, with Gage Goldberg stepping in and cornerback RJ Johnson taking on more snaps.
  • Oklahoma State is 4-2 overall and 2-1 in Big 12 play; its coach praised Colorado’s defensive front despite the Buffaloes’ record.
What’s Next

Colorado visits Oklahoma State on Saturday at 5 p.m. Mountain Time on FS1. The matchup will test whether Marve’s aggressive, collective defense can keep the Cowboys off schedule and maintain its intensity through a high-volume game.

Bottom Line

Colorado’s defensive turnaround is built on effort and numbers to the ball, but its biggest test is endurance: stopping Oklahoma State means making that approach hold up for four quarters.