Julian Lewis had just produced one of the most explosive passing performances in Colorado history, but he was already prepared to leave it behind.
Lewis completed 17 of 23 passes for a career-high 366 yards and four touchdowns in Colorado’s 52-21 victory over Weber State at Folsom Field. He also added a rushing touchdown as the Buffaloes improved to 2-0.
Along the way, Lewis set Colorado records for passing yards in a quarter and a first half while tying the program mark for touchdown passes in a half. The records were impressive. His reaction was understated.
“That’s cool,” Lewis said. “Having a first-half record, but we’re just trying to win the game. Those guys are out there competing against us, so we still have a lot to grow on. Nobody cares about the 300 yards and whatever. That’s just on to the next.”
Lewis has already experienced two dramatically different victories this season. Deion Sanders' defense carried the Buffaloes for most of their 14-13 win over Georgia Tech before Lewis delivered the winning touchdown drive. Against Weber State, the offense returned the favor by producing 578 yards and seven touchdowns.
“It’s a blessing being 2-0,” Lewis said. “It’s hard winning college football. Our defense had our back in the first game, and we had their back today. I think that’s just how beautiful football is. Every week, you get another chance to prove yourself.”
Lewis delivers the performance Colorado wanted
Julian's afternoon began with an offensive avalanche. He connected with Joseph Williams for two touchdowns, DeAndre Moore Jr. for another and Ernest Campbell for a 48-yard score.
Williams finished with four catches for 123 yards and two touchdowns. Moore added four receptions for 107 yards and a score, while Campbell turned his only reception into a touchdown.
Lewis entered the game one week removed from directing the winning touchdown drive against Georgia Tech. That dramatic finish could have become a confidence-building moment for the young quarterback, but Lewis said it had no effect on his preparation for Weber State.
“I wouldn’t say that last game had anything to do with today,” Lewis said. “I think every week is a new week to prove yourself. God gave me an opportunity to come out here and perform today, so I was just blessed looking at that and happy for the results.”
Coach Prime later confirmed that Colorado entered the game determined to establish Lewis and the passing attack. That mission was accomplished, but Lewis did not describe the performance as a finished product.
“We’re definitely still not where we want to be in terms of the pass game,” Lewis said. “It’s room to grow, but we’re ready. I think everybody is on the same page with that. Nobody’s satisfied with where we’re at.”
That message echoed throughout Colorado’s postgame press conference. The Buffaloes won by 31 points, but Deion Sanders repeatedly emphasized the penalties, missed opportunities and second-half decline.
“Two-and-0 is not the end goal,” he said. “Ultimately, we all want to be Big 12 champions, national champions and have a chance to really compete against those type of guys.”
Colorado surrounds Lewis with weapons on offense
Lewis’ historic performance also illustrated the depth surrounding him. Colorado had three players produce at least 100 yards and one touchdown, including running back Micah Welch, who rushed for 106 yards and a score.
For Lewis, having so many playmakers creates both an opportunity and a weekly challenge.
“It’s a blessing and a curse having all the guys I have out wide,” Lewis said. “Those guys are always open. They always find a way to get open. So, it’s just every week trying to find a way to get them the ball because when those guys get in space, there’s nothing you can really do about it.”
Colorado’s depth also means the offense can remain dangerous when a featured player is unavailable or has a quiet afternoon. Williams and Moore combined for 230 yards and three touchdowns, while Danny Scudero and Kam Perry combined for only 35 receiving yards.
“God put all these people around me, and it just makes my job so easy,” Lewis said. “One guy goes down, and the next man up is just as talented. You just have to try to feed them all.”
Lewis credited offensive coordinator Brennan Marion for demanding excellence and bringing a winning mentality to the offense.
“Coach Marion brings a different factor to the game,” Lewis said. “He’s a winner, and winners have different emotions and things like that. Him setting that bar high makes us set that bar high for ourselves. You can like it if you want. You can hate it if you want. But you’re going to win.”
Lewis also made certain to recognize the offensive line that gave him time to produce his record-setting afternoon. He even revealed how he has been thanking the group away from the field.
“I love my big guys,” Lewis said. “As y’all can see, we’re sitting back there comfortable. The running game is hitting crazy, and all you can ask for as a quarterback is time to throw the ball. They’ve been providing that every week. I took those guys out to eat this week. I’m consistently trying to feed those boys, keep them big, keep them thick. It’s amazing having those guys.”
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