Colorado Football: 5 breakout candidates for spring game

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Nov 3, 2016; Boulder, CO, USA; Colorado Buffaloes defensive back Isaiah Oliver (26) carries the ball during a punt return in the third quarter at Folsom Field. The Buffaloes defeated the Bruins 20-10. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports /

Cornerback Isaiah Oliver enters his junior season after strong contributions in 2016. He appeared in all 14 games for Colorado last season and this season should be a key contributor on the Colorado Buffaloes’ defense.

Oliver finished last season with 34 total tackles (23 solo, 11 assisted), seven pass breakups, an interception and a forced fumble. He was also the Buffaloes punt returner, returning 15 punts for 158 yards and one touchdown. He returned five punts for 124 yards and a touchdown against UCLA in 20-10 victory last season. It was the first punt return for a touchdown by a Colorado player since 2005.

The rising junior will be looked to step up in the secondary this spring with the departure of safeties Tedric Thompson and Ahkello Witherspoon. Thompson had seven interceptions last season to lead the team and was first in the Pac-12. Witherspoon had 19 pass breakups (first in the FBS), an interception and a forced fumble as well.

Look for Oliver’s name this weekend in the Colorado Buffaloes’ Spring Game. He’ll look to be more than just a punt returner in 2017.

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