The depth chart for the start of the 2016 season has been released and for the first time in years upperclassmen are well-represented as starters. The Buffs have a majority of returning players on the roster from last season, giving Mike MacIntyre much needed experienced players going into the Rocky Mountain Showdown on Friday, Sept. 2.

Here's a look at the position breakdown in detail.

On offense the Buffs will be led by quarterback Sefo Liufau, with backups Steven Montez and Jordan Gehrke. Liufau was named one of five captains on the team along with George Frazier, Jeromy Irwin, Phillip Lindsay and Kenneth Olugbode. The senior's third option at wide receiver will be Bryce Bobo, replacing Juwann Winfree (torn ACL).

Shay Fields and Devin Ross return as deep threat options and the junior trio (including Bobo) will be relied on heavily this season to make plays, but won't be alone in the effort. The Buffs deep corps of receivers also includes Kabion Ento, Johnny Huntley, Jay MacIntyre, Justin Jan and Derrion Rakestraw.

The upperclassmen domination in the depth chart shows three exceptions with redshirt freshman Tim Lynott, and sophomores Rick Gamboa and Isaiah Oliver. A total of 11 seniors and 11 juniors will contribute at starting positions on both sides of the ball.

Colorado opens the season in less than a week against Colorado State. The 6:05 p.m. MT kickoff will be at Mile High Stadium in Denver (TV: ESPN, Radio: 850 KOA).