BOULDER — With college defenses facing a greater number of spread offenses, nickel back has become almost a glamour position.
No longer must the fifth defensive back feel like a fifth wheel. Nickel backs stand squarely in the spotlight in today’s pass-happy era, getting on the field for 60 to 70 percent of the defensive plays in a game, even more against some opponents.
It’s no wonder Colorado sophomore Jalil Brown is smiling.
“With the nickel, it’s a more difficult position,” said Brown, who is listed as CU’s starter at that spot for Sunday night’s season opener against Colorado State. “You’re sitting more in the center of the field (than cornerbacks), and you’ve got receivers coming at you who can go to the left or to the right. Corners are usually on one side of the field, so they have less ground to cover.”
At 6-feet-1 and 210 pounds, Brown is one of CU’s biggest defensive backs. Size matters for a nickel back, which also can draw some linebacker-like responsibilities.
“You have to show up for the run support and also be fast enough to cover receivers,” Brown said Wednesday. “You have to be a little bigger than regular cornerbacks, and athletic at the same time.”
Brown said he gained confidence by intercepting two passes in an August scrimmage. The Phoenix native served as a backup at cornerback and safety last fall and also excelled on special-team coverage units.
“Jalil has really improved,” senior cornerback Gardner McKay said. “He’s become more intelligent on the field. He knows what to do and what not to do. I think this will be a big year for him.”
Ready to go.
The Buffaloes “are relaxed, and I think their mentality is good and they’re ready to go,” coach Dan Hawkins said of his team’s preparation for Sunday’s game.
Tom Kensler: 303-954-1280 or tkensler@denverpost.com
