URGENT UPDATE: The Colorado Buffaloes face significant injury challenges just days before their critical matchup against Arizona State. Left tackle Jordan Seaton is now questionable for the game, while safety Ben Finneseth has been officially ruled out, according to the latest player availability report from the Big 12 Conference.
The Buffs are set to host Arizona State at Folsom Field on Saturday, November 11, 2023, at 6 p.m. (ESPN2). This game is pivotal for Colorado’s aspirations this season, making the injury report all the more urgent. Seaton, a standout sophomore, has already missed one game due to a lower leg injury and could be sidelined again.
Head coach Deion Sanders expressed concern earlier this week, stating, “You hope to get guys back (after a bye week), and some of those guys should make it back this week. We have an injury bug for sure.” This statement underscores the ongoing health crisis within the team, as they navigate a long list of injured players.
Fifteen players from the Buffaloes are currently listed on the availability report, reflecting the team’s ongoing struggles with injuries. Finneseth, a former walk-on who has made six starts this season and ranks 10th on the team with 27 tackles, looked healthy during media interactions but will not participate in the upcoming game.
Additionally, cornerback RJ Johnson and defensive tackles Amari McNeill and Tawfiq Thomas are among those ruled out. Johnson, who started the first three games, has seen limited action recently, playing just one snap in the last seven games. This leaves a considerable gap in the Buffaloes’ defensive lineup as they prepare for a crucial clash against ASU.
Freshman linebacker Mantrez Walker is the only Buff categorized as “doubtful” for Saturday. Meanwhile, Seaton, along with right tackle Larry Johnson III, cornerback Makari Vickers, safety Carter Stoutmire, linebacker Jeremiah Brown, and defensive lineman Brandon Davis-Swain, are all listed as “questionable,” adding to the uncertainty surrounding the team’s performance.
On the opposing side, Arizona State is also facing injury concerns, with Jordyn Tyson, their star receiver, listed as “questionable.” Tyson has been sidelined for three games due to a hamstring injury but has participated in practice this week, raising hopes for his return. The Sun Devils have a total of twelve players on their participation report, including backup cornerback Rodney Bimage, Jr., who has contributed in nine games this season.
The Buffaloes will look to adjust quickly as they prepare to face ASU, with both teams dealing with significant player absences. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how these injuries will impact the game strategy and the overall outcome this Saturday.
Stay tuned for the latest updates on player statuses as we get closer to game time, and follow the action live at Folsom Field!
