Colorado secured bowl eligibility for the first time since 2016 after defeating Cincinnati 34-23. The Buffaloes improved their record to 6-2 with a 4-1 conference standing, while Cincinnati fell to 5-3 overall and 3-2 in the Big 12.
The game featured a pivotal fourth-down stop by Colorado just before halftime, which allowed them to seize the momentum. Leading 17-14, Colorado took advantage of a turnover on downs by Cincinnati to drive downfield, with Shedeur Sanders connecting with Travis Hunter for a touchdown, extending their lead to 24-14 at the break.
In the fourth quarter, Cincinnati narrowed the gap to 31-23 with a touchdown, but Colorado’s Alejandro Mata sealed the game with a 47-yard field goal, putting the Buffaloes ahead by 11 points with just under two minutes remaining.
Travis Hunter impressed on both sides of the ball, recording nine catches for 153 yards and two touchdowns while also contributing defensively with four pass breakups. Sanders completed 25 of 30 passes for 323 yards, throwing two touchdowns and adding a rushing score. Isaiah Augustave contributed significantly with 91 rushing yards and a touchdown.
Cincinnati’s Brendan Sorsby completed 16 of 30 passes for 180 yards and threw two touchdown passes, although the team struggled to keep pace in the second half. Corey Kiner ended up with 94 rushing yards after being held to 32 yards by halftime.
As the game progressed, Cincinnati attempted to rally back but ultimately fell short, allowing Colorado to maintain control and finish the game with a comfortable lead.