Got a chance to hang with "Hawk" yesterday.This guy is an impressive football coach. Sort of reminds me of Jon Gruden. Excellent with the X's and O's, but also a really good motivator. Success has been limited for him at Colorado. And with Colorado jumping to the Pac-12 next season, Hawkins sits on the Hot Seat. Much like Richt, there is a portion of the fan base that is barking for him to be pushed out the door. But you would never know it. 
    "Buck, I know you've got some boys playing the game," Hawkins said. "How old are they?" 
    "Coach, they love the game, but they are only 3 & 4," I responded. "Check back in a few years."
    Hawkins son Cody holds the Colorado school record with 46 TD passes, but Dad benched him late last season. Now, in this his senior season, he's backing up starter Tyler Hansen. Man, that's got to be one of the toughest things a coach would ever have to deal with. 
    I asked him about that trip to Athens back in 2006, when the Buffs led late 13-0. Joe Cox came off the bench to rally the 'Dogs to a 14-13 win.
    "Everytime I see Pope in an NFL game", he admitted, "it brings back nightmares." Actually coach, it was Martrez Milner.
    These are 2 programs at a crossroads. Two teams desperate for a win. Two great men trying to hold off the critics. And it should be a heck of a game. Don't understimate Colorado. They are much improved from a year ago. They can run it. The defense is better than that stat sheet says. Hawkins Buffs are 8-3 after a bye. The 'Dogs better bring their A-Game, because we'll get their best shot, after the Buffs mascot Ralphie takes the field. 
    The 'Dogs need to set the tone early. Hunker Down from the first whistle. Otherwise, this one will be another nail-bitter.