For most programs, Week 2 games against FCS opponents don’t stir much drama. But in Boulder, Colorado’s 31–7 win over Delaware didn’t just pad the win column, it cracked the door wide open for what could be a major shift at the quarterback position. Enter Ryan Staub, a third-string, three-star recruit turned locker room favorite, who may now be the frontrunner to lead the Buffaloes moving forward.
Deion Sanders has preached competition since the day he arrived in Boulder, and that approach was on full display Saturday. In what looked like a routine depth-chart shuffle turned into a true audition — and Staub may have stolen the show.
QB Controversy for Colorado Buffaloes: Meet Ryan Staub
A Spotlight Seized
Colorado’s quarterback carousel was no secret going into the Delaware game. Kaidon Salter, a transfer from Liberty, was expected to run the offense early. Freshman phenom Julian “Juju” Lewis, the five-star newcomer, was supposed to flash his upside. And then there was Staub who has been buried on the depth chart for a few years now waiting for the opportunity but quietly waiting for a shot.
He got it late in the second quarter and made an immediate impact. Staub orchestrated a clean two-minute drill capped by a 21-yard touchdown pass. On the following drive, he hit a bomb — a 71-yard strike that brought the crowd to life. The stat line told part of the story: 7 completions on 10 attempts, 157 yards, and two touchdowns. But the way he managed the offense being confident, composed, and crisp was the most impressive feat from the game.
It was the kind of performance that demanded attention.
Veteran Presence in a Crowded Room
Staub’s experience in the Colorado system can’t be overlooked. While Salter and Lewis are both new to Boulder, Staub has been with the program for three seasons. He’s sat behind Shedeur Sanders, learned from two different offensive coordinators, and waited patiently while other names grabbed headlines.
That preparation showed. His familiarity with the playbook, rapport with teammates, and calm demeanor brought a sense of stability to the field. He didn’t look like a backup trying to prove himself but instead he looked like someone who belonged. And for a team still seeking its identity post-Shedeur, this all matters for a team looking to retool not rebuild.
His teammates seemed to feed off his presence. The offensive line protected with extra energy. The sideline rallied behind him. Even the student section chanted his name. This wasn’t because of any hype around his name, but because they’ve watched him put in the work behind the scenes. That kind of respect isn’t handed out. It’s earned.
A Selfless Approach That’s Paying Off
In today’s college football landscape, players in Staub’s position usually transfer. Third-year quarterbacks who see new additions ahead of them on the depth chart don’t often stick around, especially with the portal offering instant opportunities elsewhere. But Staub chose to stay and compete. This shows his character and work ethic willing to bit his tongue, wait his opportunity to seize the moment.
Now, that decision might pay off. This isn’t just a feel-good story anymore. It’s a real quarterback competition.
He doesn’t have the recruiting stars or the flashy background. What he does have is consistency, leadership, and a full grasp of what Colorado football is trying to build under Deion Sanders. That’s not something that gets measured in combine numbers but it’s what coaches trust when games matter.
Deion’s Decision Just Got Harder
After the game, Coach Prime made it clear: the quarterback job is still undecided. He wants stability at the position and isn’t interested in rotating quarterbacks long-term. No coach wants a revolving door at the games most important position. But Staub’s performance forced a serious reevaluation of the plan.
Salter has game experience, and Lewis has future potential. But Staub is the one who brought order to the offense when it needed it most. Sometimes the sure thing is the better option than “potantial” at that very momet. That kind of contribution doesn’t get brushed aside, especially for a team trying to contend in its first year in the Big 12.
Sanders now faces a challenge — balancing development with the urgency to win now. Does he ride with the guy who’s been through the grind, even if he’s not the most talked-about name? Or does he lean on potential and pedigree? Whatever the answer is, it’s no longer obvious.
What’s Next for Staub — and Colorado?
With conference play looming, the Buffaloes must make a decision soon. And no matter who gets the call in Week 3, Staub has already put himself in the picture in a major way.
If he’s named the starter, it won’t be out of sentiment. It will be because he earned it. If not, he’s still proven that he’s capable and dependable. Whether that ends up being with the Buffaloes or elsewhere, he has set himself up for future success.
Either way, Staub’s breakout against Delaware has redefined his role on this team. From depth chart afterthought to legitimate contender, he’s proven that sometimes, hard work really does beat hype. And if the opportunity continues, this may just be the beginning of a comeback story that no one saw coming.
Main Image: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
