ORLANDO, Fla. — Deion Sanders and the Colorado football team faced off against UCF as significant underdogs on the road.
The game, held at the Bounce House, concluded with the Buffaloes securing a comprehensive victory.
Final score: Colorado 48, UCF 21.
Colorado scored a defensive touchdown as Cam’Ron Silmon-Craig returned a UCF fumble 95 yards for a touchdown, extending their lead in the fourth quarter.
In another highlight, Colorado receiver LaJohntay Wester scored for the fourth consecutive week, catching a 10-yard touchdown pass, putting the Buffs ahead by 20 points.
UCF quarterback KJ Jefferson threw a 15-yard touchdown to Xavier Townsend, marking UCF’s most points allowed by Colorado in the second half this season.
Adding to the defensive prowess, Travis Hunter intercepted KJ Jefferson, showcasing his credentials as a Heisman contender.
The Buffaloes extended their lead with Micah Welch’s one-yard touchdown run, set up by a significant 32-yard pass completion from Shedeur Sanders to Will Sheppard.
UCF’s opportunity to narrow the gap faltered when they missed a 55-yard field goal on their first possession of the second half.
At halftime, Colorado led 27-14. Alejandro Mata contributed to the Buffs’ advantage with field goals of 36 and 46 yards just before the half.
Jefferson also found the end zone with a seven-yard rushing touchdown, capping a notable drive for UCF earlier in the half.
Colorado’s offense had a strong start, with Will Sheppard scoring his first touchdown of the season on a 43-yard pass from Shedeur Sanders.
RJ Harvey quickly responded for UCF with a 75-yard touchdown, tying the game at seven.
The game’s initial scoring drive for Colorado featured an 80-yard march finishing with a 23-yard touchdown pass from Shedeur Sanders to Travis Hunter.
UCF struggled early, with Jefferson intercepted in the end zone by Colorado’s Preston Hodge.
The Buffaloes’ first offensive series began poorly when Shedeur Sanders was picked off, following a tripping penalty and a negative yardage play.
Kickoff was delayed by 35 minutes due to heavy rain and lightning, with the game starting at 2:20 p.m. MT.
With plenty of attention on UCF’s outstanding rushing statistics this season, it’s notable that Colorado’s run defense has significantly improved compared to last year.
As of Saturday morning, UCF was favored by 14 points over Colorado in betting odds.
In injury news, Colorado welcomed back running back Dallan Hayden and defensive lineman Chidozie Nwankwo, both of whom had missed the past two games due to injuries.
Shilo Sanders’ status remains uncertain, though Coach Deion Sanders indicated he could return soon.
Thunderstorms were expected in the afternoon, with a high temperature of 88 degrees.