Senior wide receiver LaJohntay Wester runs up the field during the game against CSU at Canvas Stadium on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2024. (Rachel Glazer/CU Independent)
On Saturday night, a sold-out stadium at Colorado State University witnessed the University of Colorado Boulder defeat the Colorado State University Rams 28-9, marking the Buffaloes seventh consecutive win over the Rams.
Despite the Rams nine points, Colorado dominated offensively and defensively. The Buffaloes trailed 0-3 heading into the second quarter after a missed field goal attempt and a successful 25-yard field goal by the Rams.
In the second quarter, the Buffaloes surged to a 14-3 lead after LaJohntay Wester caught two touchdown passes from Shedeur Sanders. The quick turnaround left the Rams unable to respond.
As the game moved into the third quarter, the Buffaloes maintained their momentum. Preston Hodge intercepted a pass at the Rams’ 12-yard line, leading to a Travis Hunter touchdown that extended Colorado’s lead to 21-9.
Later in the third quarter, Colorado State fumbled, and Lavonta Bentley of Colorado recovered the ball, giving the Buffaloes a new set of downs. However, the ball was soon turned over to Colorado State with 1:24 left in the quarter.
With just 26 seconds remaining, Travis Hunter intercepted a pass from Colorado State quarterback Brayden Fowler-Nicolosi, advancing the ball to just inside the Rams’ 45-yard line. Following the interception, many players, including Hunter, celebrated, but the joy was cut short by a 15-yard unsportsmanlike conduct penalty.
With a substantial lead entering the fourth quarter, Sanders and Hunter continued to drive the Buffaloes, culminating in a 22-yard touchdown that set the final score at 28-9.
Hunter had an exceptional game, racking up 100 receiving yards and two touchdowns, while also contributing defensively. Sanders also performed well completing 36 of 49 passes for 310 yards, four touchdowns, with no turnovers.
The rivalry between the Rams and the Buffaloes intensified this year. Despite some social media disrespect from the Rams during the week, the Buffaloes remained focused and resilient throughout the game. Coach Deion Sanders described it as a “wonderful game, heartfelt game, and an emotional game.”
“They came to play,” Sanders said in
His team’s performance was highlighted as they secured the victory over Colorado State. The Buffaloes demonstrated determination throughout the game, building momentum for the rest of the season.
With no scheduled match up until 2029, Colorado fans will have to wait for their next chance to secure an eighth victory in a row against the CSU.
Contact CU Independent Staff Writer Lauren Stec at laurene.stec@colorado.edu
