Chris Harris Dazzles On Opening Night

Sept. 5, 2009

Statistically, one of the only things missing for junior safety Chris Harris was an interception.

It did not take long for Harris to make his presence known. On Northern Colorado’s first offensive drive, Harris began his dazzling night with a forced fumble in UNC territory that was recovered by defensive tackle Steven Foster.

Harris ended the night with seven total tackles; two tackles for losses, a pass breakup and a forced fumble. The forced fumble marked Harris’ first career forced fumble.

Harris’ quick start in the first half and solid play in the second helped the Kansas defense hold Northern Colorado to 246 total yards on offense and a near shutout.

“I think we came out and played pretty well,” said Harris. “There were a lot of mental mistakes on the penalties where we could have done better. I am pretty excited about the defense and what we can do to keep getting better.”

Coach Mangino complemented Harris on his ability to stay in position and make the big plays tonight.

“He did a lot of good things well,” said Mangino. “They tried to throw some screens and he did a beautiful job of containing. He came up to the line of scrimmage and made tackles.”

Harris has moved back to the safety position after his stint at cornerback last season. Mangino said last year, Harris was out of position at cornerback, but has been getting better all the time.

“He’s not a pure corner,” Mangino said. “He is a better safety and that’s where he is now and he’s doing well. I think Chris is one of our most improved players since last season.”

Harris said he felt comfortable at corner last year, but playing safety allowed him to be more aggressive.

“The reason why I love this position is because they just let me go out there and play, let me be free, have my input and help this defense,” Harris said.