Travis Hunter, a two-way star for the Colorado Buffaloes, delivered a stunning performance on Friday, making a compelling case for the Heisman Trophy voters with an impressive stat line: 10 receptions for 116 yards, three touchdowns, an interception, and more than 110 plays on the field. This remarkable display came during Colorado’s dominant 52-0 win over Oklahoma State at Folsom Field in Boulder.
Quarterback Shedeur Sanders also shone for Colorado (9-3), completing 34 of 41 passes for 438 yards and five touchdowns in front of an enthusiastic crowd of 51,030. Despite the victory, Colorado’s hopes of making the Big 12 Conference championship game on December 7 remain uncertain, especially after their recent loss to Kansas.
To reach the title game, Coach Deion Sanders’ squad needs a favorable outcome involving other teams in the league. They require two of the top four teams—BYU, Iowa State, and Arizona State—to lose their games. Alternatively, if BYU loses and Texas Tech triumphs against West Virginia, Colorado would secure a spot in the championship match even in a three-way tie for first, due to a favorable tiebreaker.
Should the Buffaloes not make it to the championship, they are likely headed for either the Alamo Bowl on December 28 or the Holiday Bowl on December 27. Regardless of the outcome, the Buffaloes have made significant progress since last season, when they finished 1-11. Under Coach Sanders, they improved to 4-8 last year and have revitalized their roster this season.
Hunter, widely considered the favorite to win the Heisman according to BetMGM, had his last opportunity to impress voters before ballots are distributed on Monday, which are due back by December 9. Highlights from the game show Hunter’s ability on both sides of the ball, including multiple touchdown receptions and a key interception to start the game.
The Buffaloes took charge early, scoring on their first three possessions, while Oklahoma State struggled significantly, finishing the season with a disappointing 3-9 record. Colorado’s players, including LaJohntay Wester, who also had a stellar performance with 11 catches for 175 yards and two touchdowns, contributed to the convincing win.
Despite some struggles in the second quarter, including a series of punts and three quarterback sacks, Coach Sanders expressed determination to improve. The Buffaloes have showcased they can compete at an elite level, boosting excitement for Colorado football fans and providing optimism for their future, regardless of the postseason results.
In summary, the Buffaloes have transformed their performance over the past year, and with their sights set on future bowl games and potential playoff contention, fans can look forward to a bright future in Colorado football.