Urgent Update: Key CU Buffs Injuries Ahead of ASU Showdown

UPDATE: The CU Buffs are facing a potential roster crisis ahead of their crucial matchup against Arizona State on Saturday, November 11, 2023, at 6 p.m. ET, broadcast live on ESPN2. Star left tackle Jordan Seaton is listed as questionable due to a lower leg injury, raising concerns about his availability for the second consecutive game.

In addition to Seaton’s uncertain status, safety Ben Finneseth has been confirmed as out for the game, leaving the Buffs with significant gaps in their defense. This news comes as the Buffs prepare to host ASU at the iconic Folsom Field, a game that could have major implications for their season.

According to the latest player availability report from the Big 12 Conference, a total of 16 players from CU are listed, a reflection of the team’s ongoing injury struggles. Head coach Deion Sanders expressed hope for reinforcements following a bye week, stating, “You hope to get guys back and some of those guys should make it back this week. Some of those guys may not. We have an injury bug for sure.”

Seaton, a sophomore standout, had previously started all 22 games of his career before sitting out during the Buffs’ recent 29-22 loss to West Virginia on November 8. Right tackle Larry Johnson III, who has started eight games, is also questionable after missing the West Virginia game.

Finneseth, a former walk-on who has been a key contributor with 27 tackles this season, appeared healthy in media interactions but is still on track to miss Saturday’s game. His absence will be felt as he has been a consistent starter.

Other players listed as out include cornerback RJ Johnson, defensive tackles Amari McNeill and Tawfiq Thomas, and backup long snapper Camden Dempsey. Johnson has struggled to stay on the field, playing just one snap in the last seven games, while McNeill and Thomas have missed the last two games.

Freshman linebacker Mantrez Walker is the only player marked as doubtful. Notably, joining Seaton and Johnson on the questionable list are cornerback Makari Vickers, safety Carter Stoutmire, linebacker Jeremiah Brown, and defensive lineman Brandon Davis-Swain, all of whom have made significant contributions this season.

Meanwhile, Arizona State is not without its injury concerns. The Sun Devils have listed 12 players on their participation report, including star receiver Jordyn Tyson, who is questionable after missing the last three games due to a hamstring injury but has practiced this week. Backup cornerback Rodney Bimage Jr. is also on the list, having played in nine games this season.

As the countdown to kickoff continues, fans and analysts alike are watching closely to see how these injuries will impact both teams. This matchup is crucial for both the Buffs and the Sun Devils, and the absence of key players could shift the dynamics significantly.

Stay tuned for updates as the situation develops and both teams finalize their rosters ahead of this important clash.