2018 FloXC Countdown: #6 Colorado Men
2018 FloXC Countdown: #6 Colorado Men
The No. 6 men's spot goes to Colorado.
Follow our 2018 FloXC Countdown, where FloTrack ranks the top 25 cross country teams and individuals in the NCAA this season which will be LIVE on FloTrack. And, be sure to watch our LIVE FloXC Podium Reveal Show Tuesday, September 11th at 10 AM CT. The No. 6 men's spot goes to Colorado, and here's why:
Probable Top Five:
JR Joe Klecker (3:41 1500; 7:51 3K; 13:30 5K; 67th at ‘17 NCAA XC; 28th at ‘16 NCAA XC)
SR Ryan Forsyth (7:46 3K; 13:41 5K; 29:32 10K; 57th at ‘17 NCAA XC, 74th at ‘16 NCAA XC)
JR John Dressel (7:51 3K; 13:42 5K; 29:20 10K; 33rd at ‘16 NCAA XC; 26th at ‘16 NCAA XC)
SO Eduardo Herrera (3:43 1500; 8:03 3K; 13:57 5K; 33rd at ‘17 NCAA XC)
SR Ethan Gonzales (8:03 3K; 14:02 5K; 29:33 10K; 177th at ‘17 NCAA XC)
Impact Freshmen/Transfers:
Gabe Fendel via Fishers, IN (4:07 Mile; 8:50 3200)
Jericho Cleveland via Albuquerque, NM (1:52 800; 4:07 Mile)
Analysis:
The Buffaloes took eighth last year, but their firepower up front and experience should put them on the cusp of the top five this fall. Joe Klecker redshirted the outdoor season, but comes back as one of the top runners in the nation. After placing 67th in 2017, look for him to break into the top ten this year and get back to his All-American status of 2016.
John Dressel redshirted last fall and will be looking to add a third top-40 finish to his list of accomplishments.
Eduardo Herrera was the top finisher for Colorado at the 2017 edition of the meet. He placed 33rd as a redshirt sophomore. Like Klecker, Dressel (and senior Ryan Forsyth), Herrera has a 5000m track personal best under 14 minutes.
Colorado does have some incoming talent as well. 4:07 high schoolers milers Gabe Fendel and Jericho Cleveland join the team after distinguished prep careers.