Colorado Buffaloes Prepare for Kansas State Game with Key Injuries

The Colorado Buffaloes are gaining momentum as they head into their regular season finale against the Kansas State Wildcats on March 15, 2024. Two defensive linemen, Amari McNeill and Keaten Wade, have shown improvement in their recovery and are now listed as questionable to play. This upgrade comes after McNeill has been sidelined for approximately one month with an undisclosed injury, while Wade participated in last weekend’s game against Arizona State.

In addition to McNeill and Wade, wide receiver Omarion Miller has been upgraded from questionable to probable. The team’s offensive tackle, Jordan Seaton, remains in a questionable status. Colorado has reported a total of 12 players on its injury list, with safety Carter Stoutmire and defensive tackle Tawfiq Thomas confirmed to be out for the game.

Injury Updates Ahead of Kansas State Matchup

Both McNeill and Wade’s potential return could significantly bolster the Buffaloes’ defense as they prepare to face the Wildcats in Manhattan, Kansas. The latest injury report indicates that Wade, McNeill, and Miller are making positive strides toward recovery. Updates on their conditions will be provided on Friday evening and again 90 minutes before the game, which is set for 10 a.m. MT.

The injury report highlights the following statuses:

OUT:
– Safety Carter Stoutmire
– Defensive tackle Tawfiq Thomas

DOUBTFUL:
– Safety Ben Finneseth

QUESTIONABLE:
– Safety Tawfiq Byard
– Wide receiver Joseph Williams
– Defensive end Keaten Wade
– Offensive lineman Larry Johnson III
– Offensive tackle Jordan Seaton
– Defensive tackle Amari McNeill
– Defensive lineman Brandon Davis-Swain

PROBABLE:
– Wide receiver Omarion Miller
– Cornerback Ivan Yates

The Buffaloes are looking to regain some of their key players, particularly Byard, Williams, Johnson, and Davis-Swain, who have suffered injuries recently. Their return could make a notable difference as Colorado seeks to end the season on a high note.

Kansas State’s Injury Report and Game Context

Kansas State has fewer injury concerns, with only five players listed on its Thursday report. However, four of those players are ruled out, including cornerback Jayden Rowe and safety Colby McCalister. Tight end Garrett Oakley is questionable, a player to watch as he has contributed significantly this season with 38 receptions for 389 yards and six touchdowns. He played last week against Utah, where he secured 33 receiving yards and one score.

Colorado’s head coach, Deion Sanders, shared his insights on Kansas State earlier this week. He acknowledged the Wildcats’ formidable performance, especially in their recent game. “The team is strong. They ran the heck out of the football last week,” Sanders stated. He emphasized the competitive nature of Kansas State, noting their determination as they pursue bowl eligibility with a victory over Colorado.

As the Buffaloes enter this critical matchup with a record of 3-8 (1-7 Big 12), Kansas State stands at 5-6 (4-4 Big 12). The stakes are high, with the Wildcats needing a win to secure their postseason aspirations. The Buffaloes aim to play spoiler and end their season on a positive note.