In a significant college football matchup, the Colorado Buffaloes took a crucial step toward securing a spot in the Big 12 Championship and potentially the College Football Playoff with a commanding 49-24 victory over Utah at Folsom Field. This win not only marked a turnaround against the Utes, who had previously dominated the series with seven consecutive victories, but it also highlighted the impressive performance of Colorado’s standout player, Travis Hunter.
Utah was hampered by injuries, most notably losing three quarterbacks this season, which impacted their offensive output. Their third-string quarterback, true freshman Isaac Wilson, struggled against Colorado’s robust defense, completing 21 of 40 passes for 236 yards, with two touchdowns and three interceptions.
In contrast, Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders, considered a top prospect for the 2025 NFL Draft, showcased his talent by completing 30 of 41 passes for 340 yards, with three touchdowns and only one interception. Although the game started poorly for him with an early interception, the Buffaloes quickly regained control and maintained momentum throughout.
One of the game’s highlights was Hunter’s incredible performance, which included an interception and a remarkable catch in double coverage that set up a touchdown. His electrifying play style not only invigorated his team but also furthered his Heisman candidacy. Coach Deion Sanders praised Hunter as the “epitome of a football player,” recognizing his pivotal role in the game.
Despite some inconsistencies in both offense and defense, the Buffaloes managed to secure their eighth win of the season, positioning themselves well for the Big 12 title. They have two regular-season games left against Kansas and Oklahoma State, and winning both would guarantee their place in the championship game.
On the other hand, the Utah Utes, now at 4-6, face a challenging road ahead for bowl eligibility, needing victories in their final two games against Iowa State and UCF. While injuries have plagued their season, Wilson’s playing time offers a silver lining, as he gains invaluable experience against top-tier opponents.
As the season progresses, Colorado’s potential and talent are on full display, promising a thrilling finish as they aim for college football’s top honors. Meanwhile, Utah’s resilience in the face of adversity could lead to future improvements as their younger players gain experience.
In summary, this decisive win for Colorado not only emphasizes their growing strength in the Big 12 but also showcases the remarkable abilities of Travis Hunter, who is on the road to potentially achieving a Heisman nomination if his performance continues at this level.