What to expect from Colorado football's offense under Brennan Marion

Key Highlights

• While that might sound limiting, Marion uses that formation to confuse the defense with tricky-to-defend runs, options and RPOs in an up-tempo offense. The Buffs' offense next season should see a lot of this formation with Julian Lewis in shotgun or pistol, and do wonders for their run game.
• When the formation is working its magic, large running lanes are opened by linebackers who get shifted out of position in an attempt to follow the ball behind the line of scrimmage.
• At times last season for Sacramento State, it looked as if the defense was playing with nobody up the middle, giving their running back a free first down before they were even touched. AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementWhile there's no question the Big 12 will be a step up in competition, Marion has coached at every level of college ball and should be able to adapt to the growing strength of the conference's defenses. Best to get movingNov 22, 2025; Boulder, Colorado, USA; Colorado Buffaloes quarterback Julian Lewis (10) scrambles in the first quarter against the Arizona State Sun Devils at Folsom Field.
• Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn ImagesMarion has made his offense work with every kind of quarterback, but I've seen the most success when the quarterback can contribute in the run game.
• Giving Marion as many tools as possible will help him keep opposing defenses guessing with his up-tempo play-calling style. That's why Buffs fans should expect to see Lewis on the move much more than last season.