Buffs have new vibe, feel less pressure after coaching change

It’s generally not too difficult to get a smile out of Colorado receiver KD Nixon, who seems to wear it permanently.

On Tuesday, however, the sophomore was particularly upbeat as he and his teammates finished practice.

“We’re happy,” Nixon said. “Our vibe is totally different. I love it.”

That’s not the message one would expect out of a team riding a six-game losing streak, but the Buffaloes (5-6, 2-6 Pac-12) go into their regular season finale on Saturday at California (6-4, 4-3) perhaps feeling a little relief.

Last week, the Buffs dealt with rumors about the future of head coach Mike MacIntyre. A Denver Channel 7 report that MacIntyre would be fired at season’s end cast a shadow over the Buffs all last week, and they responded with a 30-7 loss to Utah.

On Sunday, MacIntyre was fired, and while it sent shock and some sadness through the locker room, there’s been a bit of pressure taken off of them, as well.

“It’s the new wave,” Nixon said. “Just being free, having fun, enjoying the process, enjoying the moment. I know it’s the last game, but you never get these moments back, so you’re going to take advantage of this week and focus on Cal.”

Interim head coach Kurt Roper said his message to the team was to approach this week like the others, but he’s also aware that the Buffs needed some work on their mental health.

“They’re not blind to the fact of what’s going on and what’s being said and talked about all season long,” he said. “You better be a tough minded person in anything