Arden Walker Aims for Bowl Game as CU Buffs Face Arizona

Arden Walker, a senior defensive end for the CU Buffs, is focusing on the final stretch of his college football career as the team prepares for a crucial matchup against Arizona on October 14, 2023. With the Buffs currently holding a record of 3-5 overall and 1-4 in the Big 12, Walker is keenly aware that their performance in these remaining games will significantly influence his prospects for the future, including the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft.

“We’ve got to get to six wins, really,” Walker stated regarding the team’s goal for bowl eligibility. “That’s the bowl eligibility number, so that’s what I’ve been preaching to a lot of guys in the locker room.” The Buffs need three more victories to qualify for a bowl game, a target that Walker emphasizes as critical for both the team’s future and his personal ambitions.

After suffering an embarrassing 53-7 defeat to Utah, Walker is determined to help the team rebound. “We’ve got to respond,” he remarked, acknowledging the need to move past the poor performance. His leadership is essential as the Buffs prepare to face Arizona, a team with a record of 4-3 and 1-3 in the conference. The game is scheduled for 5 p.m. at Folsom Field, and will be broadcast on FS1.

Prior to the loss against Utah, the Buffs had notable success, defeating then-No. 22 Iowa State 24-17 on October 11. They also experienced close losses against top-10 opponents like No. 7 Georgia Tech and No. 10 BYU, indicating that they have the potential to turn their season around.

Walker, a graduate of Cherry Creek High School, is committed to making the most of his remaining games. “I want to make the most of my situation,” he said, highlighting the urgency he feels as the end of the season approaches. Walker’s current statistics show 32 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss, and 1.5 sacks this season, numbers he hopes to improve.

The senior defensive end recognizes that individual performance is closely linked to team success. “I want to help the team, and the success of the team is going to help me,” he explained. His coach, Deion Sanders, has instilled the belief that winning games will increase exposure for players and enhance their prospects for the NFL.

Walker has experienced bowl games throughout most of his college career, having only missed one during his time with the Buffs. He began his collegiate journey at the University of Missouri in 2021 and 2022. Now, he is determined to reach one more bowl game before concluding his college career.

“If I do my part and make sure that we get the wins that we need to, I think the exposure and the plays will come,” Walker asserted. His focus remains steadfast on helping the Buffs achieve their goal of bowl eligibility while also enhancing his draft stock for the future. As the team gears up for Saturday’s showdown, Walker’s leadership and performance will be crucial in determining their fate.