Colorado’s quarterback carousel took another dramatic turn on Tuesday, as ESPN’s Pete Thamel reported that Ryan Staub is expected to start Friday night when the Buffaloes travel to Houston for their Big 12 opener.
Staub, who began the season as Colorado’s third-string quarterback, provided the spark the Buffaloes needed in last weekend’s win over Delaware. With the offense stalling, the redshirt sophomore entered the game and promptly led two touchdown drives, completing 7 of 10 passes for 157 yards and two scores.
Staub's efficiency and poise turned the momentum, helping Colorado pull away in a game that had been closer than expected.
Staub was spotted working with the first-team in practice on Monday, and the staff has made clear that Staub will start this week. Staub started one game for Colorado in 2023 in place of injured Shedeur Sanders.
— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) September 9, 2025
If the report holds true, it will be Staub’s second career start for the Buffaloes. His first came back in 2023, when he filled in for an injured Shedeur Sanders against Utah in the season finale.
Coach Deion Sanders is scheduled to meet with the media later today, where he is expected to address the quarterback decision and provide clarity on the rotation moving forward. Freshman Julian Lewis and transfer Kaidon Salter both saw action in the opening weeks, but it was Staub’s ability to move the offense that caught national attention against Delaware.
Sanders said after the win over Delaware that, “I know exactly how I’m going to handle the quarterback situation…I’m not going to say it…I’m not lost for direction.”
How are we feeling about Ryan Staub expecting to be QB1 Vs. Houston this friday??? #SkoBuffs #WeComing pic.twitter.com/9a29nJ6VH6
— Sidelines - Colorado 🦬 (@SSN_Colorado) September 9, 2025
Colorado (1-1) now turns the page to Friday night’s showdown with unbeaten Houston, a matchup that doubles as Sanders’ Big 12 debut. The Cougars have been sharp to open the season and will look to test Staub in his first start in nearly two years.
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