Coach Deion Sanders and the Colorado football team delivered a strong statement to the Big 12 Conference with their recent performance. After demonstrating their competitiveness against one of the best teams in the league last week, they showcased their prowess on the road by defeating Arizona 34-7 at Arizona Stadium on Saturday, even without their star two-way player Travis Hunter for much of the game.
Hunter made a brief return from a shoulder injury during the first half, catching two passes for 17 yards and making a tackle before exiting the game as the Buffaloes established a significant 28-7 lead at halftime. Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders had an impressive outing, completing 23 of 33 passes for 250 yards, contributing two touchdowns, and throwing two interceptions. The Buffaloes’ defense was formidable, totaling seven sacks and keeping the Wildcats scoreless after their early touchdown.
This win elevates Colorado’s record to 3-1 in the Big 12 and 5-2 overall, exceeding their total wins from the previous season. They are one victory away from bowl game eligibility, with five regular-season games still on the schedule. Next, they will host Cincinnati (5-2) at home.
Arizona’s record fell to 3-4, with an announced crowd of 50,724 witnessing the game. Wildcats’ star receiver Tetairoa McMillan, who ranked third nationally for receiving yards per game, had a quiet outing with only five catches for 38 yards. Meanwhile, linebacker Nikhai Hill-Green led the Colorado defense with eight tackles and a sack.
In the closing moments of the game, Colorado’s backup players helped extend the lead to 34-7, with backup quarterback Ryan Staub guiding a scoring drive set up by an interception from cornerback Colton Hood. Kicker Alejandro Mata capped the possession with a 34-yard field goal.
Colorado maintained its dominance throughout, scoring a field goal early in the second half to push the score to 31-7. Hunter, who had previously made an impactful play, was held out for the second half as a precaution against aggravating his shoulder injury.
Arizona faced its own challenges, dealing with injuries, including the loss of leading tackler Jacob Manu to a knee injury during the first half.
Despite a turbulent second quarter marked by three turnovers in quick succession, Colorado managed to pull ahead significantly. Sanders had his best half of football under Coach Deion Sanders, completing 15 of 21 passes for 173 yards and two touchdowns before halftime.
With strong performances from wide receiver LaJohntay Wester, who had six catches for 106 yards, and the continued contributions from quarterback Sanders, the Buffaloes are demonstrating their potential in the Big 12.