BOULDER — Colorado’s newest first-time starter, offensive right tackle Matt Bahr, isn’t the kind to get big-headed. And the realities of college life wouldn’t allow it anyway.
“I have two essays and an exam on Friday,” said Bahr, a 6-foot-4, 285-pound redshirt freshman from Orange County, Calif.
Bahr replaces sophomore Ryan Miller, who suffered a season-ending fracture of his left fibula against Florida State. Bahr likes to say Saturday’s game against No. 5 Texas is “just another week.” But he knows this will feel different.
Bahr has not started a game since his senior year at Mission Viejo High School.
“You walk around (campus) and people that saw you on TV say, ‘You got in. Good job,”” Bahr said. “My parents called me after the Florida State game, and all that kind of stuff.
“That’s all great. But honestly, we just have to practice hard. I know I have some big shoes, with Ryan out. But getting better — that’s what it’s about.”
CU coach Dan Hawkins said Bahr played well after taking over for Miller early in the second half against Florida State. Bahr didn’t have much time to warm up.
“He is a smart football player,” Hawkins said. “I’m sure that once he gets more reps, he’ll get better. He has to get better.”
Bahr said the Texas defense presents a special challenge because the Longhorns give different looks.
“That’s something we haven’t seen yet,” Bahr said. “They have two or three different blitzes. That means we will have to prepare for a larger package.
“We have to be prepared. But I really think we have a chance against those guys.”
Tom Kensler: 303-954-1280 or tkensler@denverpost.com
