Colorado's QB competition has remained too close to call as we get closer and closer to the kickoff of the 2025 season. Deion Sanders has yet to make a call on the starter, and it could remain unknown until the Buffaloes' offense takes the field for the first time against Georgia Tech.
Kaidon Salter has the major edge in experience, and with his dual-threat ability, he provides a different dynamic to the Colorado offense that hasn't been seen in Boulder yet during the Coach Prime era.
But Julian Lewis is a savant. The true freshman has excelled in practice from the moment he arrived on campus. He has received praise from teammates and coaches. Colorado would be totally comfortable rolling him out on Friday night as the team's starter.
Lewis will have a role, but it remains likely that Salter is the starter for the Buffs. The Liberty transfer has a huge edge in experience that can't be ignored, and with a team that could be built to run the football with an experienced and talented offensive line, Salter is best equipped to take advantage of that.
Pat Shurmur praises both QBs, but specifically mentions Salter's experience
Colorado offensive coordinator Pat Shurmur had praise for both of his quarterbacks on Monday. He called Lewis "super talented," but what he said about Salter is what continues to make it look more and more likely that he will be the captain of the ship.
"He's a tough, gritty guy," Shurmur said about Salter. "He studies it very hard. He has a pretty good view of the big picture...He's obviously a tremendous athlete that if the situation presents itself, can do some good things with his legs. I'm looking forward to putting him out there and seeing what he can do."
Shurmur called Salter's experience "invaluable," which is the biggest thing that gives him a leg up in this competition over Lewis. The freshman phenom can make all the throws and has a bright future in Boulder. He may also have the now.
Lewis will likely carve out a role in the Colorado offense this year. I would expect a "Lewis package" where the Buffaloes can get him on the field for a few snaps every game to take advantage of his God-given arm talent.
But Coach Prime will live and die this season behind the play of Salter. He'll give them the best chance with his experience and ability to make big plays with his legs.