The Colorado Buffaloes defense is teaming with young talent, but there are few players that are proven at the Pac-12 level. If you’re being cynical, the only defenders who are guaranteed to be difference makers are Rick Gamboa and Evan Wothington. Gamboa is a terrific player who sees everything on the field at inside linebacker, but he’s a limited athlete and can only do so much. Worthington, on the other hand, has the instincts and physical tools to be Colorado’s best defender.
In 2017, Worthington was an essential player. After missing 2016 due to a suspension, Worthington came back to the Buffs matured and focused.