In classic Coach Prime style, Colorado’s staff moved quickly to fix a major hole in the offensive line. Just days after standout center Cashius “Cash” Cleveland entered the transfer portal and signed with Texas Tech, Head Coach Deion Sanders added a big name to the roster: former Kansas Jayhawks and Big Ten offensive lineman Cooper Lovelace.
At 6’5″ and 315 pounds, Lovelace brings size, experience, and toughness to Colorado’s 2025 offensive line. Since Colorado is heading into the Big 12, where strong defenses are everywhere, Sanders knew the team needed to get bigger and better up front.
Why Did Cleveland Leave and Lovelace Join?
The offensive line took a big hit when Cash Cleveland, who was expected to be a key part of the unit, entered the portal. His sudden departure after spring practice left a huge gap in Colorado’s plans for the new season.
Coach Prime didn’t waste time finding a replacement. He picked up Cooper Lovelace, an experienced offensive lineman who transferred from Northwestern. Lovelace’s journey has been busy — he started at Butler Community College, moved to USC, and most recently played for Northwestern. His experience in different systems makes him a perfect fit for what Coach Prime wants to build.
In 2024, Lovelace played in 11 games for Northwestern and started eight. According to 247Sports, he was rated a three-star transfer and allowed only one sack all season.
What Does Lovelace Bring to the Buffaloes?
Lovelace’s size and strength fit perfectly with what offensive line coach Phil Loadholt wants: a group that’s tough and ready to protect quarterback Shedeur Sanders. Lovelace can play both guard and tackle, which gives Loadholt more options for finding the best lineup.
What makes Lovelace even more valuable is his experience with different styles of football. He has played in the physical, run-heavy Big Ten and in up-tempo spread offenses like the ones common in the Big 12. That flexibility will be important for Colorado as they figure out the best way to use him.
— Cooper Lovelace (@cooperlovelace1) May 31, 2025
Lovelace’s experience blocking top-level defenders early in his career will be a big help to the Buffaloes. With Cleveland gone, Lovelace’s leadership and ability to adjust will be key to improving the line and setting the tone up front.
The Colorado Buffaloes will kick off their season on August 29 against Georgia Tech at 8 PM ET, followed by a match with Delaware on September 6 at 3:30 PM ET.
