No. 17 Colorado delivered a statement win on Saturday, dismantling Utah 49-24 at Folsom Field to move one step closer to the Big 12 Championship Game. Fueled by explosive plays on both sides of the ball and another Heisman-caliber performance from Travis Hunter, the Buffaloes improved to 9-1 on the season, keeping their College Football Playoff hopes alive.

A Rocky Start Quickly Reversed

The game didn’t begin as planned for Colorado. Shedeur Sanders threw an interception on the very first play from scrimmage, setting up Utah for an early field goal. However, the Utes’ offense stalled for much of the game, and Colorado quickly seized control.

Sanders redeemed himself by orchestrating a series of big plays, starting with a 40-yard touchdown pass to Will Sheppard. LaJohntay Wester followed shortly after with a dazzling 76-yard punt return for a score, giving the Buffs a commanding 14-3 lead in the first quarter.

Third-Quarter Surge Seals the Win

Leading 21-9 at halftime, Colorado opened the second half with a defensive spark. Linebacker Nikhai Hill-Green intercepted Utah quarterback Isaac Wilson, returning the ball to the Utes’ 37-yard line. On the very next play, Isaiah Augustave broke free for a 37-yard touchdown run, the longest rushing score for the Buffaloes since 2018, pushing the lead to 28-9.

That touchdown ignited Colorado’s offense, which added a 47-yard strike from Sanders to Drelon Miller in the fourth quarter to put the game out of reach.

Travis Hunter Shines on Both Sides of the Ball

Travis Hunter continued to build his Heisman Trophy résumé with another remarkable performance. The two-way star snagged his third interception of the season in the second quarter, picking off a deflected pass and returning it 21 yards. Though the Buffs didn’t capitalize on that turnover, Hunter’s impact extended beyond his defensive prowess.

As a wide receiver, Hunter made a critical 28-yard fourth-down catch late in the second quarter to set up a touchdown. He capped his performance in electrifying fashion with a highlight-reel touchdown run in the fourth quarter, reversing directions and cutting back through the middle of the field to find the end zone. It’s a play likely to be featured prominently in Heisman highlight reels if Hunter takes home college football’s top individual honor.

A Straightforward Path Ahead

With two regular-season games remaining, Colorado controls its own destiny in the Big 12. The Buffaloes face a road test at Kansas next week before returning home to close the season against Oklahoma State. Wins in both matchups will secure Colorado a spot in the Big 12 title game on Dec. 7 in Arlington, Texas.

Key Stats and Takeaways

• Explosive Plays: Colorado scored four touchdowns of 35 yards or more, including two passing TDs, a punt return, and a long rushing score.

• Defensive Standouts: The Buffs’ defense forced two turnovers, including Hill-Green’s pivotal interception early in the second half.

• Balanced Attack: Colorado dominated through the air and on special teams while adding a rare big play on the ground.

What’s Next?

The Buffaloes (9-1, 6-1 Big 12) head to Lawrence next week to take on Kansas in another pivotal conference matchup. With their eyes firmly set on the Big 12 title game, the Buffs will look to maintain their winning momentum and continue their quest for postseason glory.