Colorado University Athletics
Buffs Return to Practice as Spring Break Ends
March 24, 2026 | Football
BOULDER – The Colorado football team returned to the practice field Tuesday following a week off for spring break, resuming preparations for the annual Black and Gold Spring Game on April 11.
The Buffaloes practiced outside on Franklin Field for the first time this spring, taking advantage of improved weather conditions as the team enters the next phase of its spring schedule. The transition outdoors marks a shift in tempo and environment as Colorado continues installing schemes and evaluating personnel.
"There's another level of expectation placed on what we put out there," outside wide receivers coach Jason Phillips said.
Phillips has already seen noticeable changes within his group, particularly in overall team speed and experience.
"The first thing that's glaring is a lot of speed," Phillips said. "We did a good job recruiting and improving the speed in the room."
That added speed is expected to play a key role in Colorado's offensive evolution this spring, especially within a system designed to create opportunities in space.
"The offense is really predicated toward setting guys up to be successful," Phillips said. "Based on the defense, it kind of tells you what your route is going to be… it's a receiver's dream."
Sophomore wide receiver Quanell Farrakhan Jr. said the offensive system and offseason work have already helped elevate the group's confidence and chemistry.
"I really feel like our connection is building," Farrakhan Jr. said. "Just getting a real feel for how we're going to go about things for the next season."
Farrakhan Jr. also highlighted the discipline required as he balanced spring football with observing Ramadan.
"You know, it's really brutal… not being able to drink water when we're going tempo," he said. "But you've got to be mentally tough and have discipline."
Farrakhan Jr. pointed to his individual development this spring, emphasizing improved route running and consistency.
"I would say my route running, just getting open and getting separation from the DBs," he said. "That way I'm able to do my thing while I'm on the field."
Within the room, he has leaned on veteran leadership while embracing increased opportunities during spring practices.
"Really just looking up to the older guys, seeing how they go about things," Farrakhan Jr. said. "I just look at it as an opportunity for me to get better and get more reps."
Phillips emphasized that beyond physical traits, the group continues to develop the mindset needed to compete at a high level.
"We've made an emphasis on playing the game with a certain level of physicality," he said. "It's a mindset, it's a demeanor, it's how you approach everything you do."
As spring continues, Phillips noted the group is still evolving, particularly with several players sidelined due to injury.
"I don't know what to expect from this group right now, considering the number of injuries," Phillips said. "But with the experience and speed we've added, you should see something different."
With multiple position groups continuing to develop and compete, the Buffs will use the remaining weeks of spring practice to establish depth, refine execution and build cohesion ahead of April 11.
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!
