Fort Collins – Colorado State released its first depth chart since the opening of camp, and with 12 positions listed on offense, something has to change before the Sept. 3 opener against Colorado.
UCLA transfer Nnamdi Ohaeri was listed ahead of Kyle Bell and Gartrell Johnson at running back, with Jimmy Green and Tristan Walker at the new blocking back position. If the blocking back isn’t used, the Rams will go with their traditional H-back.
CSU running backs coach Mick Delaney, who often waited until game day before naming a starter the past two seasons, said, “There are still eight more practices.”
Ohaeri, Bell and Green rotate carries with the first team in practice.
Coach Sonny Lubick said he would like to think throwing an unknown scheme at CU would offer the Rams an advantage, but he doesn’t expect that will be the case.
Just to further pique some interest in Boulder, Lubick said: “We’ve got some wishbone stuff, and we’re also using Urban Meyer’s (spread) offense. Get that in the paper.”
On the defensive side, sophomore Darryl Williams pulled to the front of the depth chart at right cornerback. Returning starter Robert Herbert is listed ahead of Brandon Cathy on the other side. Cathy started every game last season at right cornerback.
There are two injury question marks on defense. Defensive end Terrance Carter is listed as the starter, but has missed most of practice with a concussion while Bob Vomhof has gotten most of the work. Lubick said there’s a chance Carter could be at practice Monday.
Backup free safety Lukas Davis remained out with a chronic knee problem, and freshman Klint Kubiak continued to work with the second team.
Instant replay
Colorado State will use instant replay in its first two games, taking the Big 12 format in the opener at Colorado and the Big Ten the following week at Minnesota. Visitors have the option of using instant replay in nonconference games.
All conferences developed their own standards. The Mountain West is unique because head coaches will have a limited number of challenges in each game.
Watch list
CSU’s Justin Holland is one of 22 senior quarterbacks on the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award watch list announced Wednesday. Returning USC Heisman Trophy winner Matt Leinart tops the list. Holland was previously named to the Davey O’Brien watch list.
Natalie Meisler can be reached at 303-820-1295 or nmeisler@denverpost.com.
