Deion Sanders names Richard Young starter for Arizona State game

Colorado running back Richard Young will start at Arizona State on Saturday, head coach Deion Sanders confirmed during a media session on Tuesday. The decision comes as the Buffaloes prepare for a road contest against the Sun Devils at 5:30 p.m. MT on ESPN2.

Sanders made the announcement after his team secured a 27-24 overtime victory over Kansas State earlier in the week. That win ended a five-game losing streak and halted a nine-game slide within the Big 12 Conference. The Buffaloes have not recorded back-to-back conference wins in the last two seasons, a hurdle Sanders believes the team is ready to overcome.

Young’s emergence against the Wildcats was immediate. The transfer from Alabama carried the ball 24 times for 120 yards and two touchdowns. He averaged 5.0 yards per carry in that game, a volume of touches he had not previously experienced in college football.

Prior to the Kansas State matchup, Young had limited playing time. He recorded only 16 carries in the four games he played during the current season. Sanders noted that an injury to Micah Welch created an opening for Young, though the coach expects Welch to return to practice this week. Despite the injury report, Sanders stated that Young would start at Arizona State regardless of Welch’s availability.

Sanders praised Young’s work ethic and composure during his breakout performance. “Richard runs hard, works hard, prepares, study. Does not miss anything,” Sanders said. The coach observed that Young did not change his demeanor after receiving more opportunities. “He hasn’t had a pity party,” Sanders added. “He got what he deserved.”

Young’s production moves him to third on the team’s rushing list with 169 total yards and a 4.2 yards per carry average. JaQuail Smith remains the team leader with 361 yards, followed by Micah Welch with 220 yards. The Buffaloes also receive contributions from Damian Henderson II and DeKalon Taylor, who have rushed for 144 and 115 yards respectively.

Sanders described the Tuesday practice session as one of the best of the season. He said the team responded well to changes in the game plan. The coach also provided a brief update on quarterback Julian Lewis, who was hospitalized last week after a medical incident at practice. Sanders said Lewis is doing well and that he spoke with the player’s father on Tuesday.