Colorado’s Gooden Becomes Division I’s Only Two-Way Lineman

Colorado’s 14-13 comeback victory over Georgia Tech showcased Deion Sanders’ emphasis on versatility, with 380-pound sophomore guard Chauncey Gooden playing 65 offensive snaps and seven defensive snaps as a rare two-way interior lineman. Gooden helped protect quarterback Julian Lewis, contributed on defense and earned national recognition as the Outland Trophy player of the week. Sanders said players must first excel on one side of the ball before being given opportunities elsewhere, a standard previously applied to Travis Hunter and now earned by Gooden. Colorado will host Weber State in its home opener as it seeks to move to 2-0. The Georgia Tech win has also energized the Buffaloes’ 2027 recruiting class, which includes about 20 commitments and ranks third in the Big 12, while four-star safety Gabe Jenkins has suggested he could play on both sides of the ball for Colorado.