Quentin Gibson, a freshman receiver for the Colorado Buffaloes, is poised for a significant breakthrough in his kickoff return efforts as the team prepares to face Utah on October 14, 2023. Although he has not yet scored a touchdown on a return, Gibson has emerged as a vital part of the Buffaloes’ special teams, ranking second nationally with 427 kickoff return yards.
Gibson’s Growing Impact
Despite lacking a touchdown return, Gibson’s speed and agility have injected new energy into Colorado’s return game. As he approaches the matchup against Utah, which will take place at 20:15 local time and broadcast on ESPN, Gibson remains optimistic about his potential for a big play. “Yes, I feel like it’s coming soon,” he stated. The 2024 MaxPreps national player of the year believes he has missed out on opportunities but is eager to capitalize on his skills.
The 5-foot-9, 155-pound athlete has already recorded four returns of over 31 yards, including a season-best 46-yard return against Wyoming. His willingness to take the ball out from deep in the end zone demonstrates his commitment to improving the team’s field position. “Him being able to pick up those yards that he’s getting on those kickoffs and punts is something that you just don’t see a lot of nowadays,” commented Colorado quarterback Kaidon Salter.
Although Gibson has only caught nine passes for 43 yards and added four punt returns for 29 yards, he understands the importance of his role in changing the game’s momentum. “I feel very grateful to be in that role ’cause that’s very important in football,” he noted. “Say I return one, that could change the whole momentum of the game.”
Learning Patience and Strategy
Gibson’s journey has required patience. At North Crowley High School in Texas, he was a key player, contributing to a perfect 16-0 season with impressive individual statistics, including 2,009 yards and 36 touchdowns. The transition to college football has taught him valuable lessons about strategy and game knowledge. “Last year I played a lot in high school,” he remarked. “So, coming in and not really being able to play off the rip, it just taught me a little patience to wait.”
His experience has deepened his understanding of the game. “Knowledge of the game has developed a lot more,” Gibson explained. “In high school, I was really playing off talent. Now I get more in-depth… just becoming a student of the game more.”
In addition to Gibson’s contributions, fellow team member and safety Tawfiq Byard has emerged as a vocal leader despite being new to the program. Since transferring from South Florida, Byard has consistently demonstrated his value, leading the team with 51 tackles and contributing significantly in recent games, including a pivotal interception against Iowa State on October 11, 2025.
Byard’s leadership qualities have not gone unnoticed by his teammates. Freshman defensive end London Merritt praised Byard’s communication skills and his ability to keep the defensive line coordinated. “He’s definitely a leader for sure,” Merritt stated, noting Byard’s efforts to ensure players stay focused and in sync during practices and games.
As the Buffaloes prepare for their upcoming match against Utah, they aim to break a six-game losing streak at Rice-Eccles Stadium, with their last victory in Salt Lake City occurring on November 24, 2011. Gibson’s electrifying potential on kickoff returns, coupled with Byard’s leadership, could play a crucial role in their efforts to secure a long-awaited win.
With the stakes high and anticipation mounting, both Gibson and Byard are poised to leave their marks on the game, contributing to the Buffaloes’ quest for success this season.