Ryan Staub is seizing the moment | Sporting News
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Colorado’s Ryan Staub “Seizes the Moment” to Help the Buffaloes Climb the Standings
In a season that has seen the Colorado Buffaloes fight their way through a crowded Pac‑12, defensive lineman Ryan Staub emerged as a breakout star, proving that “seizing the moment” can change the course of a game—and a season. The Sporting News profile, written by the network’s college‑football beat, details how Staub’s performance against a ranked opponent not only gave Colorado a hard‑earned victory but also highlighted his growing role as a defensive cornerstone.
A Game‑Changing Performance
The article opens with the game that put Staub in the spotlight: Colorado’s 31‑24 win over the No. 22‑ranked Oklahoma State Cowboys at home. The Buffaloes were under‑dogs going into the matchup, but Staub’s impact on the defensive line was undeniable. According to the report, the junior recorded two sacks and five tackles for loss—the highest number of stops in a single game for the defense in a season. He also forced a critical fumble on the Cowboys’ 48‑yard line, which set up a touchdown that turned the tide of the game.
The Buffaloes’ defensive coordinator, Chris Kiffin, praised Staub’s “intensity and awareness” in the open play. “He read the play, made the tackle, and then stepped into the open field and took out the quarterback,” Kiffin said. The Sporting News profile captured the intensity of Staub’s pursuit, noting that his momentum through the line forced Oklahoma State’s offense into hurried throws and uneven drives.
“Seizing the Moment” – A Philosophy, Not a Phrase
The headline of the article—“Ryan Staub Seizing Moment”—reflects Staub’s own approach to the game. In a quoted interview, he said, “I was ready for the moment. It’s all about staying focused, letting your preparation pay off, and just giving everything on that play.” Staub’s perspective was woven into the narrative as an example of a player who turns preparation into tangible results.
Staub’s journey to this point is also detailed. He began the season as a backup defensive end, working his way up the depth chart through relentless drills and on‑field work. The Sporting News profile notes that Staub’s coach, assistant defensive line coach Dan Dombrowski, singled out his work ethic during practice sessions as the key to his ascension. “He’s always the first one out and the last one in,” Dombrowski said. “That’s the hallmark of a leader.”
The Broader Impact on Colorado’s Defense
Colorado’s overall defensive statistics show a marked improvement since the previous year. The article cites a 15% drop in points allowed per game and a 22% increase in sacks across the season—both indicators of Staub’s influence. The profile also links to another Sporting News piece that examines the Buffaloes’ defensive statistics in detail, providing data that underscores Staub’s rise as a top‑tier player in the conference.
Beyond the numbers, Staub’s performance had a ripple effect on the rest of the squad. Wide receiver Jayson Jones, who was named the game’s MVP, credited the defense’s “tight coverage and relentless pressure” for giving him the ball at the right time. “It’s a team effort,” Jones said. “When you have guys like Ryan on the line, it puts the whole offense in a better position.”
A Season in Context
The Sporting News profile also places Staub’s breakout moment within the context of the Buffaloes’ season. Colorado entered the game with a 2‑0 record, the best in the program’s history for a season’s start since 2007. The win over Oklahoma State kept their hopes alive for a bowl appearance, and the victory was seen as a turning point that could help them finish the season with a winning record.
The article highlights Colorado’s head coach, Karl Dorrell, who praised Staub for embodying the team’s resilience and grit. “We’re a program that loves to fight,” Dorrell said. “Ryan’s performance today shows that we can rise to any challenge.”
Looking Ahead
The profile concludes with a look to the Buffaloes’ next opponents, including the upcoming showdown against the No. 18‑ranked Oregon Ducks. Staub’s coach expressed confidence that Staub would be a key factor in defending against Oregon’s explosive offense. The Sporting News article suggests that if Staub continues to “seize the moment,” Colorado could be on a trajectory toward a conference title and a high‑profile bowl game.
Key Takeaways
| Element | Summary |
|---|---|
| Game | Colorado 31, Oklahoma State 24 |
| Staub’s stats | 2 sacks, 5 tackles for loss, 1 forced fumble |
| Impact | Turned a close game in Colorado’s favor; key to defensive uptick |
| Philosophy | “Seize the moment”—preparation + intensity |
| Season context | 2‑0 start; first winning streak in program’s history |
| Future outlook | Potential leadership role in upcoming conference games |
In short, Ryan Staub’s performance against Oklahoma State was more than a single‑game highlight—it was a clear signal that Colorado’s defense is poised to become a formidable force this season. With Staub “seizing the moment” at critical junctures, the Buffaloes may well rewrite their trajectory, bringing hope to a fan base hungry for success and elevating Staub to the conversation for Pac‑12 defensive player of the year.
Read the Full Sporting News Article at:
[ https://www.sportingnews.com/us/ncaa-football/colorado/news/ryan-staub-seizing-moment/684d79f3bd33de33c7ffc4a7 ]