Simeon Price Seizes Opportunity with CU Buffs Football
Veteran running back Simeon Price is making the most of his chance with the Colorado Buffaloes, leading the team in rushing yards through two games after transferring from Coastal Carolina. Price's journey highlights perseverance after facing uncertainty about his football future.
A Second Chance in Boulder
After entering the NCAA transfer portal in December and initially receiving little interest, Price received a call from the CU Buffs in June. He saw this as a divine opportunity, stating, "When I got the call here, it was a no-brainer to walk into this type of environment with these coaches, this knowledge. And I feel like I was sent here. God gave me an opportunity."
Prior to joining Colorado, Price spent three years at Mississippi State and one at Coastal Carolina. Through his first four college seasons, he accumulated only 79 carries for 327 yards across 37 games. After a season with 136 rushing yards at Coastal Carolina, entering the portal again led to a period of doubt.
"I was at home training, thinking I was never going to be able to play football again," said Price, reflecting on the uncertainty he faced before the Colorado opportunity arose.
Impact on the Buffaloes
The 6-foot, 215-pound Price has rushed for 84 yards on 14 carries, averaging 6.0 yards per attempt, showcasing his potential in the Buffaloes' backfield. CU head coach Deion Sanders praised Price's character and dedication, saying, "First of all, he deserves it. Second of all, you talk about a great kid, a character kid, a kid that loves this game, loves everything. … Phenomenal human being and I’m proud to have him part of this team."
Navigating a Talented Running Back Room
Price joined a running back room with talent including Dallan Hayden (currently injured), Micah Welch, and DeKalon Taylor. Welch leads the backfield in carries with 18 and 78 yards, while Taylor has 50 yards on eight carries. Competition for carries is fierce, especially with Hayden's impending return.
Price emphasizes the positive dynamic within the running back group, noting, "Stay ready so you don’t have to get ready. We all know that it’s a deep room. We all know that we’re competing. But the thing that’s making our running back room click right now is the fact that we’re not selfish, we’re not an arrogant group of guys. We all want to see each other win. We all want to see each other succeed."
Colorado Football Q&A Highlights
In a recent Q&A, Simeon Price discussed various aspects of his journey and his time with the Buffs:
- First Two Games: Described as "solid," but with room for improvement.
- Sideline Hurdle: Attributed to instinctive reaction and the freedom to play football.
- Transfer Portal Experience: Emphasized the role of faith and overcoming a "dark place."
- Post-Football Plans: Considered following his sister's path in athletic training.
- Hall of Fame Mentorship: Values the "gold nuggets" of advice from running backs coach Marshall Faulk.
Players to Watch for Colorado and Houston
In the upcoming game against Houston, key players to watch include:
- Colorado: WR Sincere Brown and S Carter Stoutmire.
- Houston: RB Dean Connors and DL Eddie Walls III.
The CU Buffs face Houston, with Price hoping to continue his positive momentum and contribute to the team's success.
