ASU vs. Colorado: Buffaloes' Top RB & Leading Pass Rusher Not Expected To Play Tonight

When you're a 22-point underdog, you need all the help you can get. Unfortunately, Colorado will receive no such help, as their leading rusher and top offensive weapon in running back Christian Powell will likely miss tonight's game. As if that weren't enough, defensive end Chidera Uzo-Diribe will join him on the sidelines.

As first reported by Adam Munsterteiger of Rivals.com:

DE Chidera Uzo-Diribe and RB Christian Powell are among the #CUBuffs not expected to play tonight. #Buffs S Ray Polk is listed as doubtful.

— Adam Munsterteiger (@adamcm777) October 11, 2012

Powell suffered a quadricep contusion during Colorado's previous game against UCLA on September 29th and has not practiced during the the week. Uzo-Diribe suffered a sprained ankle in that same game.

Powell has been one of the most positive surprises in the Pac-12 this season. The 235-pound freshman came to Colorado as a fullback, but moved to running back during Week 2's game against Sacramento State and responded with 147 yards and three touchdowns in the Buffaloes' shocking 30-28 loss. On the season, he has a team-high 294 yards.

In his absence, sophomore Tony Jones will see more action. As opposed to the powerful Powell, the 190-pound Jones relies on speed and shiftiness, and is a quality pass-catcher out of the backfield.

Uzo-Diribe has been one of the few bright spots on a Colorado defense that ranks among the worst in the nation. The junior has a team-high five sacks on the year. Freshman Samson Kafovalu is Uzo-Diribe's backup at right defensive end.