In a perfect world, the operation around Julian Lewis would be flawless on Saturday during his first career start as Colorado goes on the road to face West Virginia.
There's been nothing "perfect" or "flawless" about this Colorado season, and even at full strength, things are sure to go wrong. But the latest availability report released by the Buffaloes on Wednesday night just made things a lot more complicated for Lewis.
Star left tackle Jordan Seaton - a potential first-team All-American - was listed as "Questionable" on Colorado's first availability report for this weekend's game in Morgantown.
There's little more important for a QB than knowing their blindside is protected. That's doubly true for a freshman making his first career start. Seaton is one of the best left tackles in the country, a sure-fire top NFL Draft pick in 2027, and his availability will be pivotal for Colorado's offensive success against West Virginia and Lewis' trust in the pocket.
No matter who would potentially start in place of Seaton on Saturday if he's unable to go, it would be a huge downgrade to the Colorado offensive line. That's no disrespect to any of the other offensive linemen on the roster; it just speaks to how great Seaton is.
Jordan Seaton being questionable is bad news for Deion Sanders and Colorado
The first start of Julian Lewis' career is the only real optimism for Colorado fans heading into this weekend's game against the Mountaineers. It's been a lost season otherwise for the Buffaloes as they enter the game at a supremely disappointing 3-6.
Deion Sanders is ready to build for the future. It's time to see what Colorado has in Lewis, who could be the guy to get things back on track. But his first career start could derail quickly if Colorado can't block for him.
West Virginia's defense is among the worst in the Big 12. The Mountaineers rank 90th in the country in QB sacks per game, averaging just 1.6 per contest. This should be a game where Colorado's offensive line can impose its will, run the football, and take a lot of pressure off of Lewis.
The return of OG Xavier Hill is important, but that would be immediately offset - and completely overshadowed - by the absence of Seaton.
Hopefully, whatever is ailing him continues to heal up over the next 48 hours before kickoff. Colorado needs him healthy and available this weekend.