In a decisive 49-24 victory over Utah, the Colorado Buffaloes made significant strides towards clinching a spot in the Big 12 Championship and potentially the College Football Playoff. The win, which took place at Folsom Field, marks a notable change in fortune for Colorado, which had previously struggled against Utah, losing seven straight contests to them.
Utah, facing a challenging season marked by injuries, fielded true freshman quarterback Isaac Wilson, who struggled against a relentless Colorado defense. Wilson completed 21 of 40 passes for 236 yards, but he also threw two touchdowns and three interceptions, struggling to find rhythm against the Buffs’ physicality.
In contrast, Colorado’s quarterback Shedeur Sanders showcased his talent, completing 30 of 41 passes for 340 yards, alongside three touchdowns and one interception. His performance further solidified his status as a top contender for the upcoming NFL Draft.
The Buffaloes seized an early lead after overcoming a first-play interception by Sanders. They quickly answered with a touchdown, and their momentum grew, bolstered by an impressive 76-yard punt return for a touchdown by LaJohntay Wester. Travis Hunter then emerged as a standout player, recording an interception, making a jaw-dropping 28-yard catch in double coverage, and scoring on a spectacular touchdown run. His all-around performance, including defensive and offensive contributions, drew accolades from coach Deion Sanders, who called him “the epitome of a football player.”
Despite a few missteps, including three turnovers, Colorado exhibited resilience and the ability to rally, essential skills for their championship aspirations. The Buffs, ranked No. 17 in the latest College Football Playoff standings, remain in contention with two regular-season games left against Kansas and Oklahoma State.
For Utah, now 4-6, the road to bowl eligibility has become steeper. They will need to win their remaining games against Iowa State and UCF, but the experience gained by Wilson amid adversity could prove beneficial for the future.
In summary, while Colorado celebrates a vital win and looks forward to their next challenges, Utah is left to regroup and find a way to end their losing streak. The outlook for Colorado remains promising as they continue to build momentum, seeking to capitalize on their potential as they approach the postseason.