Colorado University Athletics
Onu Helps Buffs Defense Produce Three Takeaways
September 14, 2019 | Football
BOULDER — The Colorado Buffaloes' defense got off to another strong start Saturday at Folsom Field, forcing a turnover on Air Force's first possession.
Safety Aaron Maddox forced the fumble by Air Force running back Taven Birdow, which was recovered by Davion Taylor for the Buffaloes. It was one of three takeaways by the CU defense in CU's 30-23 overtime loss.
Coming into the game the Buffs were fourth in the nation in turnover margin, and tied for second with seven forced turnovers — four fumble recoveries and three interceptions. Colorado added to that turnover number against the Falcons with two fumble recoveries and one interception. That adds up to 10 turnovers through three games for the Buffaloes, only five short of the amount the Buffaloes forced during the entire 2018 season.
One player who has made a big impact in that area is free safety Mikial Onu, a graduate transfer from Southern Methodist University. Onu has been involved in half of the Buffaloes takeaways this season. That includes an interception in the end zone Saturday — his third of the season — and a forced fumble. Onu already has more interceptions this year than anyone on the Colorado roster had during the 2018 season.
When asked about his forced turnovers this year, Onu said, "You try to help your team head in the right direction but it means nothing if you lose … I couldn't care less about what kinds of turnovers I had, how many I have in the season. I want to win. So whatever I have to do to win that's my approach."
Although the defense came up with turnovers, there were still some problems. For the third week in a row the Buffalo defense gave up at least 30 points. The defense also gave up 444 yards of total offense against the Falcons on Saturday, including 289 rushing yards and 155 passing yards.
When asked if the team was caught off guard by Air Force, Onu replied, "No, they hit us with what we knew we would get hit with … we have to get better. Tackle better, run the ball better, a lot of places to improve. So we will come back next week. And we're going to improve this week and we'll be ready."
The Buffaloes will, however, be without the services of starting safety Maddox, who suffered a severe leg laceration in the third quarter Saturday. He will be out for at least a month.
Colorado looks to get back in the win column next weekend when the Buffs face off against Pac-12 South opponent Arizona State at 8 p.m. next Saturday in Tempe.
