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Colorado vs. Oregon: Buffs make special preparations for Ducks' spread offense

Colorado Buffaloes coach Jon Embree is preparing his defense in a unique manner to face Oregon's up-tempo offense.

Doug Pensinger

Colorado coach Jon Embree revealed the unique approach the Buffaloes' defense will take in trying to counter the Oregon attack in his weekly press conference on Tuesday. Embree will practice and prepare a two-huddle system where the two units will replace each other on defense after every play.

Embree acknowledged that this is not how he usually schemes for opposing spread offenses, but he considers the game with Oregon a special case because of the Ducks' quick tempo and speed. Along with tailoring the defense's timing, Embree said the Buffs will be forced to play mostly zone to account for Oregon quarterback Marcus Mariota's running ability.

The Ducks' fast-break offense has averaged 51 points per game this season, ranking second overall in the FBS. Oregon is also fourth in rushing yards per game with a 317.1 mark.

Colorado will attempt to bounce back from a lopsided 50-6 loss to Southern California last week.