Backup QB Noyer ready to contribute if needed
BOULDER» Ideally, Steven Montez will start every game for the Colorado football team this season and prove he’s as good as advertised.
History suggests, however, that at some point in the season, Sam Noyer will be called upon to lead the offense, whether it’s for a few series or a few games.
“Honestly it’s just to prepare each day like it is my team,” Noyer said of his approach to the season. “Just take it day by day, keep learning and be prepared like I am the starting quarterback.”
Last year, Montez made three starts in the middle of the season in place of senior Sefo Liufau, who sprained an ankle. Montez made relief appearances in several other games, as well.
In 2015, Cade Apsay was called upon to play the final two and a half games after Liufau injured his foot.
The last CU quarterback to start every game in a season was Cody Hawkins, in 2007.
“I’m definitely looking forward to it,” Noyer said. “When the time comes, if it comes, I’ll be ecstatic.”
Montez knows the importance of being prepared as a backup and said Noyer is doing well to get ready.
“The thing I do is make sure Sam is good on his protections,” Montez said. “Other than that, (the other quarterbacks) are working on that on their own. Sam has been putting in tons of work getting in the playbook and knowing what he’s doing. He knows where he’s going with the ball most of the time.
“He has turned it up to another notch and picked up the playbook a lot quicker during this fall. He’s out there calling plays and running it and it looks smooth and good. He’s executing plays really well and it’s great.”
The 6-foot-4, 210-pound Noyer, who is from Beaverton, Ore., spent last season learning the offense from Liufau, Montez and the coaches.
So far, Noyer’s only chances to play in front of fans have come in a couple of scrimmages. He threw for 165 yards and two touchdowns in the spring game. Last Saturday in an open scrimmage at Folsom Field, he threw three touchdown passes.
Noyer has displayed good mechanics and a strong arm, and is also gaining more confidence.
“I feel strong,” he said. “I came out (this fall) and I’m just getting used to the offense again. We haven’t done it since spring. We’re taking steps each day, but so far I feel good, I feel confident back there.
“I’m starting to get a lot more confidence sitting in the pocket, knowing my reads and knowing the protection of the offense. If something breaks down, knowing where to go with the ball.”
In addition to Noyer, the Buffs have been pleased with the progress made by true freshman Tyler Lytle, who they hope to redshirt, and walk-on Casey Marksberry.