Colorado University Athletics
Buffs Continue Progress as Spring Camp Reaches Midpoint
March 27, 2026 | Football
BOULDER — The Colorado Buffaloes concluded week three of spring camp with a spirited scrimmage Friday at the Ford Practice Facility, as the team continued to build momentum on both sides of the ball.
The session highlighted a competitive defensive unit adjusting to new leadership under defensive coordinator Chris Marve, with increased versatility, communication and an emphasis on execution across the secondary.
"We're more versatile with the coverages," said assistant defensive backs coach Kevin Mathis. "It gives guys opportunities to show different skill sets, but at the end of the day, it's still about running to the ball, being aggressive and making plays."
Mathis also emphasized the importance of the nickel position within the defense, noting the intelligence and toughness required to handle multiple responsibilities.
"In this defense, that guy has to be a great athlete. He has to know football and he has to be tough," Mathis said. "Sometimes he's in the box playing like a linebacker, sometimes he's out in space. Those guys are going to be counted on a lot."
The secondary has benefitted from a collaborative coaching approach, with multiple voices contributing to player development.
"With the staff we have, everybody can really specialize in their group," Mathis said. "There's a lot of knowledge and experience, and we're able to pour into these guys and focus on the details."
On the field, a mix of veterans and newcomers continues to shape the depth chart. Boo Carter's talent has been evident early, while freshman Preston Ashley has emerged as an energetic and fast learning addition to the room.
"Boo is one of the most talented guys I've coached," Mathis said. "The talent and knowledge are there. It's about consistency and bringing it every play."
Freshman contributors have made a noticeable impact, continuing a trend under head coach Deion Sanders of trusting young players who prove themselves in practice.
For true freshman Preston Ashley, the transition to Boulder from Jackson, Miss. has been both smooth and meaningful.
"When I stepped foot in Colorado, it felt like home," Ashley said. "Right after I committed, I knew this was where I needed to be. My first spring has been great, everything is moving fast, but I'm learning and getting better every day."
Ashley said playing in Colorado's defensive system fits his natural style.
"I approach the game fast, physical and aggressive," he said. "That's how I've always played, so it was easy to fit into this defense and what Coach Prime wants."
The freshman also pointed to the influence of veteran leaders and daily competition as key factors in his development.
"Guys like Yo yo (Yahya Attia) and the older players, they've been putting me on game since I got here," Ashley said. "And going against our quarterbacks every day, asking questions and learning, that's helped me a lot."
With an open path to early playing time, Ashley has embraced the opportunity.
"It motivates me every day," he said. "I pride myself on being the first one here and the last one to leave, just making sure I know everything and keep improving."
As spring camp continues, Colorado remains focused on development, accountability and competition, building toward the annual Black and Gold spring game and laying the foundation for the 2026 season.
Fans wanting to get a first glimpse of the 2026 Colorado Buffaloes football team can claim tickets now for the annual AT&T Black & Gold Day.
Football season tickets are on sale now and fans are encouraged to lock in their seats for six exciting games at iconic Folsom Field this fall. Be a part of the pageantry and excitement of one of the most unique college football atmospheres in the country by getting your tickets today!
The session highlighted a competitive defensive unit adjusting to new leadership under defensive coordinator Chris Marve, with increased versatility, communication and an emphasis on execution across the secondary.
"We're more versatile with the coverages," said assistant defensive backs coach Kevin Mathis. "It gives guys opportunities to show different skill sets, but at the end of the day, it's still about running to the ball, being aggressive and making plays."
Mathis also emphasized the importance of the nickel position within the defense, noting the intelligence and toughness required to handle multiple responsibilities.
"In this defense, that guy has to be a great athlete. He has to know football and he has to be tough," Mathis said. "Sometimes he's in the box playing like a linebacker, sometimes he's out in space. Those guys are going to be counted on a lot."
The secondary has benefitted from a collaborative coaching approach, with multiple voices contributing to player development.
"With the staff we have, everybody can really specialize in their group," Mathis said. "There's a lot of knowledge and experience, and we're able to pour into these guys and focus on the details."
On the field, a mix of veterans and newcomers continues to shape the depth chart. Boo Carter's talent has been evident early, while freshman Preston Ashley has emerged as an energetic and fast learning addition to the room.
"Boo is one of the most talented guys I've coached," Mathis said. "The talent and knowledge are there. It's about consistency and bringing it every play."
Freshman contributors have made a noticeable impact, continuing a trend under head coach Deion Sanders of trusting young players who prove themselves in practice.
For true freshman Preston Ashley, the transition to Boulder from Jackson, Miss. has been both smooth and meaningful.
"When I stepped foot in Colorado, it felt like home," Ashley said. "Right after I committed, I knew this was where I needed to be. My first spring has been great, everything is moving fast, but I'm learning and getting better every day."
Ashley said playing in Colorado's defensive system fits his natural style.
"I approach the game fast, physical and aggressive," he said. "That's how I've always played, so it was easy to fit into this defense and what Coach Prime wants."
The freshman also pointed to the influence of veteran leaders and daily competition as key factors in his development.
"Guys like Yo yo (Yahya Attia) and the older players, they've been putting me on game since I got here," Ashley said. "And going against our quarterbacks every day, asking questions and learning, that's helped me a lot."
With an open path to early playing time, Ashley has embraced the opportunity.
"It motivates me every day," he said. "I pride myself on being the first one here and the last one to leave, just making sure I know everything and keep improving."
As spring camp continues, Colorado remains focused on development, accountability and competition, building toward the annual Black and Gold spring game and laying the foundation for the 2026 season.
Fans wanting to get a first glimpse of the 2026 Colorado Buffaloes football team can claim tickets now for the annual AT&T Black & Gold Day.
Football season tickets are on sale now and fans are encouraged to lock in their seats for six exciting games at iconic Folsom Field this fall. Be a part of the pageantry and excitement of one of the most unique college football atmospheres in the country by getting your tickets today!
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