The college football season opener between the Colorado Buffaloes and North Dakota State Bison on August 29, 2024, is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing matchups of the year. This Thursday night showdown at Folsom Field (ESPN 6pm) will mark the beginning of the second season under head coach Deion Sanders, who brought a wave of excitement and transformation to the Buffaloes in his inaugural year. Facing off against the perennial FCS powerhouse North Dakota State, Colorado will be tested right out of the gate as they seek to build on the momentum from last season.
Key Storylines
Colorado Buffaloes Under Deion Sanders:
Deion Sanders, known for his larger-than-life personality and Hall of Fame NFL career, made an immediate impact in his first year as head coach of the Buffaloes, even though the team fell short of a bowl game with a 4-8 record. Despite the challenges, Sanders has recruited aggressively, bringing in top-tier talent through the transfer portal. And notably, Colorado landed a top national 5-star recruit, Jordan Seaton, an offensive lineman who is expected to make an immediate impact. The Buffaloes’ 2024 season opener is more than just a game; it’s an opportunity for Sanders to prove that his program is on the rise and ready to compete at the highest levels of college football.
North Dakota State’s FCS Dominance:
The Bison of North Dakota State have long been the gold standard in FCS football, with nine national championships since 2011. Their success is built on a disciplined, physical style of play, and they have a track record of success against FBS opponents. This game represents a significant challenge for Colorado, as North Dakota State is known for pulling off upsets against FBS teams, leveraging their experience, and executing at a high level.
Team Analysis
Colorado Buffaloes: Strengths and Weaknesses
The Buffaloes enter the 2024 season with a roster brimming with talent and potential. Key returning players include quarterback Shedeur Sanders, who excelled in his first year under center, and wide receiver Travis Hunter, a two-way star expected to be one of the most dynamic players in the nation. Colorado’s offense is expected to be explosive, with a deep receiving corps and a solid offensive line anchored by experienced veterans.
However, questions remain on the defensive side of the ball. While the Buffaloes have upgraded their talent through recruiting, the defense struggled at times last season, particularly against the run. The challenge will be containing North Dakota State’s power running game, which has been the foundation of their success.
North Dakota State Bison: Strengths and Weaknesses
North Dakota State’s strength lies in its consistency and physicality. The Bison boast one of the most formidable offensive lines in the FCS, and their power-running attack, led by All-American running back TaMerik Williams, will be the focal point of their game plan. Defensively, North Dakota State is known for its discipline and ability to stifle opposing offenses, particularly against the run.
However, the Bison face the challenge of replacing key contributors from last year’s squad, particularly on defense, where they lost several starters to graduation. Additionally, while they are well-coached and execute at a high level, the jump in competition from FCS to FBS, especially against a team as talented as Colorado, presents a significant challenge.
Matchups to Watch
Colorado’s Offense vs. North Dakota State’s Defense:
One of the most intriguing matchups will be Colorado’s high-powered offense against North Dakota State’s disciplined defense. The Buffaloes will look to spread the field and utilize their speed on the outside, with Shedeur Sanders leading the charge. Travis Hunter will be a key target, and his ability to make plays both as a receiver and a cornerback could tilt the game in Colorado’s favor. North Dakota State will need to pressure Sanders and force him into mistakes, while also containing the run to prevent Colorado from establishing a balanced attack.
North Dakota State’s Rushing Attack vs. Colorado’s Defense:
The Bison’s game plan will revolve around their ability to run the football and control the clock. Colorado’s defensive line will be tested early and often, as North Dakota State will try to wear them down with their physicality. The key for Colorado will be to stack the box and force the Bison into passing situations, where they may be less comfortable.
Coaching Strategies
Deion Sanders’ Approach:
Sanders will likely emphasize speed and aggression, looking to capitalize on Colorado’s athleticism and depth. Expect the Buffaloes to take shots downfield and use misdirection plays to keep the Bison defense off balance. Defensively, Sanders and his staff will need to develop a game plan that prioritizes stopping the run while being mindful of North Dakota State’s play-action passing game.
Tim Polasek Strategy:
Tim Polasek, the new head coach of North Dakota State, will stick to what has made the Bison successful—playing fundamentally sound football, controlling the line of scrimmage, and minimizing mistakes. Polasek will rely on his team’s experience in big games and will look to keep the game close, knowing that North Dakota State’s methodical approach can frustrate more explosive teams.
Predictions and Implications
This game will set the tone for both teams’ seasons. For Colorado, a win would reinforce the belief that they are a team on the rise under Deion Sanders, capable of competing with anyone. For North Dakota State, an upset would further cement their legacy as giant killers and could propel them to another dominant season at the FCS level.
In the end, the talent disparity and home-field advantage may give Colorado the edge, but the game is likely to be closer than many expect. The Bison will not go down without a fight, and their ability to control the game with their running attack will keep the outcome in doubt until the final whistle.
Final Prediction: Colorado Buffaloes 27, North Dakota State Bison 20.
This primetime matchup will be a must-watch for college football fans, as it offers a compelling clash of styles and a glimpse into what both teams might achieve in the 2024 season.
Feature photo by David Zalubowski/AP
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