⚡ CFB Dashboard

BOULDER — The first half of Colorado's home opener on Saturday featured a mixed bag of highlight plays and concerning defensive mistakes. Offensively, the Buffs' wide receivers weren't exactly challenged by Weber State's defensive backs. DeAndre Moore Jr., Joseph Williams and Ernest Campbell each recorded a lengthy touchdown reception in the first quarter, helping the Buffs take a 42-17 lead into halftime. Colorado's defense struggled to contain Weber State quarterback Nate Dahle, who rushed for a few big gains early and closed the half with 177 yards, two touchdowns and an interception. Defensive back Makari Vickers, in particular, struggled in coverage. Below are a few first-half takeaways from Colorado-Weber State: Sharper JuJu Weber State's defense didn't provide much of a barrier, but Julian Lewis was far sharper on Saturday than he was against Georgia Tech. The second-year quarterback set a new CU record for passing yards in a quarter with 212, which included touchdown throws of 66, 63 and 48 yards. Most encouragingly, Lewis' downfield passing game took a big step forward.  Lewis still has plenty of room to grow. He fumbled early and later took an unnecessary 8-yard sack; Secondary struggles continue Particularly on third downs, Colorado's secondary struggled in coverage. Vickers was picked on frequently at nickel, and safety Naeten Mitchell had a few costly mistakes as well.  The lone highlight came on a first-quarter interception from safety Randon Fontenette. Colorado adjusted midway through the second quarter, however. Jason Stokes Jr. stepped in at cornerback and Boo Carter moved to nickel, pushing Vickers to the bench.  Kicking battle update After giving Daniel Gerlach the nod last week, Colorado turned to Elliot Arnold for every kickoff/extra-point attempt in the first half. Only one of his kickoffs was returned, and he nailed all six extra points.  Colorado's kicking battle rolls on, but Arnold may have regained the lead. Wide receivers bounce back Colorado showed off its receiving depth in the first half, as eight different Buffs caught a pass. Williams led the room with 123 receiving yards and two touchdowns, Moore had 95, and tight end Zach Atkins returned with a 19-yard haul. Undisciplined Colorado was flagged six times for 54 yards, numbers that head coach Deion Sanders shouldn't be pleased with.  Plus, Colorado's special teams mistakes continued with an illegal formation and a Carter fumble.