Colorado hosts Northern Colorado, eyes better start than in opener

(AP) —

After starting the season with a disappointing home loss, the Colorado Buffaloes will host FCS opponent Northern Colorado looking to get their offense going Saturday.

The Buffaloes (0-1) lost to TCU 38-13 last week, despite not allowing the Horned Frogs to score an offensive touchdown.

Colorado's offense was held to 196 yards of total offense and just seven first downs.

The Buffaloes are hoping for a better performance against Northern Colorado (0-1), which lost to Northern Arizona 31-14 last week.

Here are three things to watch for when Colorado hosts Northern Colorado:

1. Can Colorado's offense get going?

The Buffaloes' offense was anemic against TCU, and they will need to be much better if they want to win this game.

Quarterback Brendon Lewis was just 9-of-24 passing for 74 yards, and the running game was held to 122 yards.

Colorado will need to find a way to generate more offense against Northern Colorado.

2. Will Colorado's defense continue to play well?

The Buffaloes' defense was the only bright spot in their loss to TCU, as they held the Horned Frogs to just 10 points.

Colorado will need to continue to play well on defense against Northern Colorado, which has a talented offense led by quarterback Jacob Knipp.

Knipp threw for 230 yards and two touchdowns in the loss to Northern Arizona, and he will be looking to have a big game against Colorado.

3. Can Colorado avoid a letdown?

The Buffaloes are a heavy favorite against Northern Colorado, and they will need to avoid a letdown after their disappointing loss to TCU.

Colorado has a talented team, and they should be able to win this game if they play to their potential.

However, the Buffaloes will need to be focused and prepared, or they could be upset by Northern Colorado.