Colorado Football: Don’t read too much into blowout of Colorado State

3. Steven Montez is ready to shine for Colorado

Last year, Steven Montez stepped into the starting role at quarterback after Sefo Liufau left the University of Colorado. He finished with just under 3000 yards, 18 touchdowns, and nine interceptions on 60.5 percent passing.

Montez was solid if unspectacular over the course of 2017. After a (redshirt) sophomore slump, Montez seems to finally be breaking out of the shadow of Liufau and making the Buffaloes quarterback position his own. It was against a Rams squad that gave up 418 yards and three touchdowns through the air to Hawaii’s Cole McDonald, to be fair. But it was a breakout performance on Thursday night nonetheless.

Montez completed 22 of his 25 passing attempts for 338 yards and four touchdowns. One of his incompletions went for an interception, but it was still an efficient performance that showcased his importance to the Colorado offense. He added 34 yards and a rushing touchdown on three carries, picking his spots to run wisely.

If Colorado is going to win the Pac-12 this year, they will need Montez to produce more ultra-efficient performances like the one he put in to win a third straight against a traditional rival. Montez looks capable of making that difference in the Pac-12 South race as the most experienced quarterback in the division.