Via SI’s Jason Jones considers Shilo Sanders’ possible upcoming return to Colorado football against K-State on Oct. 12 as a “difference maker” for a Buffs defense that has had an up-and-down season so far.

“Since joining the Buffaloes in Boulder, Sanders has been a key player in the secondary,” Jones began, before saying, “His hard-hitting style, football IQ and tenacity have made him one of the team’s most important defenders. Shilo has thrived under his father’s leadership and helped instill a winning mentality in the Colorado locker room. His likely return against the Wildcats could be the difference as the Buffs look to secure a clean sweep in the national spotlight.

Sanders left the Nebraska game in the first half with a broken forearm. Shilo suffered a simple fracture that allowed him to return to the field just over a month after the injury.

The return of Coach Prime’s middle son raises an interesting question that only the Buffs’ record of wins and losses after their first bye week can answer.

Shilo is a necessary cog in the Colorado machine. Although Sanders isn’t the best tackler or cover man, he is one of the most active safeties in football. His return gives the Buffs a legitimate future third-day draft pick in the NFL.

But does Shilo’s presence change the secondary at all? No, in it he keeps his starting position. Yes, because he steps in somewhere else if necessary Scott Procter of the Coloradoan.

“Most coaches will say players don’t lose their spot because of injury, especially a player as experienced and productive (who led the team in tackles last season) as Shilo Sanders,” Procter wrote. “Therefore, it is safe to assume that Shilo Sanders will return to his starting spot in the Buffs’ secondary and Stoutmire will return to his backup role with valuable experience.”

“There’s also a possibility that Shilo Sanders could take over Trevor Woods’ role on third downs,” Procter introduced, before saying: “Deion Sanders said after the UCF win that Woods decided to redshirt, which means Shilo Sanders could potentially depart.” Moving into the hybrid, pass-covering position would allow Shilo Sanders to use his tackling skills closer to the line of scrimmage and allow Stoutmire to continue to gain confidence in the secondary.

If CU struggles against K-State, things will be hot for Shilo, even though the Week 7 schedule is nearly unmatched all year.