Powell nears four-year distinction
boulder» It still amazes Christian Powell to look back and see what he has accomplished as a running back at Colorado.
“That’s the last thing I would have expected, to be moved to a running back,” said Powell, who is now entering his senior season with the Buffaloes. “It was a sudden change, something to adapt to. It’s something I’ve been able to adapt to.”
That’s an understatement.
Recruited as a fullback and not expected to carry the ball very much, Powell has led the Buffs in rushing in each of the past three seasons. He has a chance to join Rodney Stewart (200811) as the only players in CU history to lead the team four years in a row.
“That would definitely be an honor, and I’ll just do all I can to have a great season. And if it all falls into place, it’ll happen,” he said. “It’ll definitely mean a lot to me.”
Powell, a 6-foot, 235pounder from Upland, Calif., was brought to CU by former coach Jon Embree, who envisioned him playing as a blocking back. Upon Powell’s arrival in fall 2012, though, the coaches saw something else in Powell.
CU struggled to run the ball in the opener that season, and in Week 2, they gave Powell the surprise start at tailback. He had 28 carries for 147 yards and three touchdowns.
Powell comes into this year with 1,701 career rushing yards, needing just 299 more to become the 18th player in CU history with 2,000.
“Coming straight from fullback, that’s all you know to do is run downhill,” said Powell, whose power has always been a part of his game. “I can’t let that leave my game, but at the same time trying to learn different fundamentals as a running back and develop a little more.
“It’s just a different game to learn, from being a blocker to being a ball carrier. Each and every year I’ve been able to develop.”
CU running backs coach Klayton Adams said he’s been impressed with how Powell has worked on different areas of his game each season.
“Every year the guy works so hard all offseason to make sure he’s in peak condition and he works on the things he needs to improve on,” Adams said. “He’s one of those guys that is so bought in and really works hard. He’s a humble, blue-collar guy.”
Powell has also battled some minor bumps and bruises over the years, limiting his effectiveness at times. He missed two games in 2012 and two last year.
“Last year he had the concussion in the middle of the season that really hurt us,” CU coach Mike MacIntyre said. “I’m very hopeful he stays healthy the whole year, because he’s a bona fide leader and he brings a toughness to our team and he shows up every Saturday when he’s there.”