When Shilo Sanders went down, many wondered who would step up in his absence. The answer has been clear: Carter Stoutmire. The sophomore safety has taken full advantage of his opportunity, catching the attention of none other than Coach Prime himself.
“He’s playing so well,” Sanders said. “Carter’s good.” Stoutmire’s performance hasn’t just filled the void left by Sanders; it’s added depth to the Buffaloes’ defense, giving them options they didn’t have before.
One of Stoutmire’s most significant contributions has been his versatility. “He can cover tight ends, receivers, and backs,” Coach Prime noted. “You may want to take a linebacker off the field and put him down there and let him do his thing.” Stoutmire’s ability to handle multiple roles in the secondary has allowed Colorado to adapt their defensive schemes, especially in dime packages, making them harder to attack.
Stoutmire’s physicality and aggressiveness have also been key. “He’s physical. He’s strong. He’s fast. He’s smart,” Sanders continued. But what sets Stoutmire apart is his mentality. “He’s not just sitting out there trying to prevent plays. He’s trying to make plays now,” Coach Prime explained. This shift in mindset shows how confident Stoutmire has become in his role.