Deion Sanders and the Colorado football team began the 2024 college football season by facing off against North Dakota State at Folsom Field.
Stay tuned for live updates and insights as the game unfolds, starting at 6 p.m. (MT) on Thursday, Aug. 29.
Colorado football narrowly defeats NDSU
The Buffaloes managed to secure a hard-fought victory against the Bison on Thursday evening.
Here’s a breakdown of the game and key highlights.
Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter team up for a touchdown
Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter connected once again, giving Colorado the lead back. The star quarterback and receiver duo teamed up for a 13-yard touchdown, marking their second score of the night and Shedeur Sanders’ third touchdown overall. Hunter made an impressive leaping catch on a back-shoulder throw, accumulating 116 yards on five receptions. Colorado regained control, leading NDSU 24-20 with seven minutes left in the third quarter.
Shedeur Sanders faces an unexpected interception
Colorado’s quarterback, Shedeur Sanders, known for his minimal interceptions last season, threw one in 2024 after his pass got deflected by an NDSU player’s leg. Fortunately for the Buffaloes, the Bison couldn’t capitalize on the turnover, as defensive lineman Chidozie Nwankwo sacked the NDSU quarterback on third down, forcing a punt. Colorado took possession again trailing 20-17 with 9:49 remaining in the third quarter.
NDSU leads Colorado at the half
A successful 27-yard field goal from Alejandro Mata as the first half ended brought Colorado within three points, narrowing NDSU’s lead to 20-17. Shedeur Sanders completed 12 of 15 passes for 254 yards and two touchdowns at halftime, while NDSU’s Cam Miller was 10 for 13 with 144 yards and two touchdowns, contributing an additional 39 yards on the ground. The outcome will hinge on the second half.
NDSU capitalizes on Colorado’s turnover on downs
In a surprising decision, Colorado opted to go for it on 4th and 1 from deep within its own territory but was stopped short, allowing NDSU to take advantage and extend their lead with a 31-yard field goal. The Bison led 20-14 with 4:33 remaining in the first half.
NDSU’s quarterback Cam Miller puts his team back in front
After executing a solid 75-yard touchdown drive, Cam Miller led another 77-yard scoring drive capped with a seven-yard rushing touchdown. The Bison amassed 189 total yards, putting pressure on the Colorado defense. NDSU led 17-14 with over 10 minutes left in the first half.
Shedeur Sanders connects with Jimmy Horn Jr. for a long touchdown
Shedeur Sanders displayed great accuracy, completing five consecutive passes for 134 yards and two touchdowns with three minutes remaining in the first quarter. He delivered a deep throw to Jimmy Horn Jr., who sprinted in for a 69-yard touchdown. Both offensive teams started strong, with Colorado leading 14-10 after one quarter.
NDSU regains the lead against Colorado
The Bison showed they could handle pressure by scoring on consecutive drives to start the game, finishing a 10-play, 75-yard drive with a score to take a 10-7 lead over Colorado. Cam Miller was efficient, going 6 for 7 for 117 yards and a touchdown. Colorado regained possession with 3:59 left in the first quarter.
Travis Hunter scores Colorado’s first touchdown of the season
Travis Hunter marked his first catch of the 2024 season with a touchdown. Quarterback Shedeur Sanders completed four passes for a total of 65 yards on the opening drive, leading to Colorado’s 7-3 lead with 9:31 left in the first quarter.
NDSU scores first against Colorado
NDSU’s first offensive play included a 51-yard pass from quarterback Cam Miller to running back TK Marshall, resulting in a 36-yard field goal. Colorado’s offense took the field for its first possession with 12:12 remaining in the first quarter.
Deion Sanders takes a pre-game lap around Folsom Field
Colorado coach Deion Sanders, appearing in better health than the previous year, jogged around Folsom Field to the cheers of fans about an hour prior to kickoff.
Colorado football unveils new uniforms against NDSU
Fans finally got to see the Buffs’ new jerseys as Colorado debuted their all-black uniforms with gold numbers and white lettering, featuring a design of the flatirons on the shoulders. NDSU opted for its traditional white uniforms.
Projected depth chart for Colorado football against NDSU
While Colorado has not released an official depth chart, the projected offensive and defensive starters for the Buffs’ 2024 season opener have been identified.
NDSU’s coach discusses the challenges of preparing for Colorado
Colorado’s integration of 50 scholarship newcomers has made game planning tricky for NDSU’s coaching staff. Bison running game coordinator Dan Larson noted the difficulties in identifying starters, highlighting the complexities of coaching against a team with such diverse talent.
NDSU’s record against FBS teams
NDSU is a consistent powerhouse in the FCS, with a history of successfully challenging FBS teams. Recent matchups illustrate the Bison’s ability to pull off upsets since 2010.
Guide to watch Colorado football vs NDSU
For those unable to attend the game at Folsom Field, a comprehensive guide on how to watch and listen to the match between Colorado and North Dakota State is available.