Quarterback Shedeur Sanders during the football game at Folsom Field on Saturday, Oct. 12, 2024. (Linus Loughry/CU Independent)
The University of Colorado’s football team has become a focal point of Heisman contention, AP rankings, bowl eligibility and powerhouse status as they prepare to face Texas Tech University this weekend. With fans on the edge of their seats, Saturday’s matchup is set to affect both rankings and test the strength of the Buffaloes.
Colorado has taken the Big 12 by storm, securing blowout wins on the road against seemingly untouchable opponents. These victories have sparked hopes for a continued streak of success, both at home and away. Dominant performances at the University of Central Florida, the University of Arizona, and the University of Cincinnati – followed by a bye week – have provided the Buffs with an ideal boost heading into Lubbock, Texas, this weekend. When asked about the reasoning behind Colorado’s success on the road, head coach Deion Sanders credited it to their preparation.
“The way we prepare on the road. The way we concentrate from the time we wake up, go to practice before we leave, and the things we know we can accomplish. The unity, the focus in the walk-throughs – just the undaunting focus we have,” Sanders told reporters.
Key players on Colorado’s offense have had time to heal from injuries and will play integral roles in the team’s success. Wide receiver and defensive back Travis Hunter has averaged 12.6 yards per reception and totaled 757 receiving yards this season. Hunter is also a dynamic presence on defense with two interceptions. Quarterback Shedeur Sanders has thrown for 2,591 yards and 21 touchdowns.
Running back Isaiah Augustave has added explosiveness to the run game with 63 carries for 271 yards and three touchdowns. Wide receiver LaJohntay Wester, who will wear the #1 jersey this week after a breakout season with seven touchdowns and 501 yards, could be a game-changer on offense.
Additionally, the Buffs have excelled at converting third downs, with a 45.79% success rate compared to their opponents’ 33.94%. This efficiency, combined with a growing defensive strength, has been crucial to Colorado’s success. Although the Buffs have given up big plays and yards, their ability to stop drives and get the ball back to the offense has had a significant impact on their season.
Texas Tech, meanwhile, will be looking to build on last week’s upset win over No. 17 Iowa State, which shook up the Big 12 rankings. The Red Raiders’ rushing attack, led by Tahj Brooks – who has more than 1,000 yards and 10 touchdowns this season – is ranked sixth nationally in rushing yards. Quarterback Behren Morton has thrown for 2,300 yards and 19 touchdowns, making the Red Raiders’ offense a serious threat, especially at home.
Another advantage for Texas Tech is the weather. While Boulder is experiencing wintry conditions with snow on the ground, Lubbock’s cooler temperatures and clear skies will give the Red Raiders a weather-related practice edge. However, Texas Tech’s defense has struggled this season, ranking 120th nationally in points allowed per game.
The Red Raiders have given up between 21 and 51 points in various games and are dealing with injuries that have weakened an already below-average defense. This presents a challenge as the Red Raiders face one of the most talented offenses in college football.
Texas Tech defensive coordinator Tim Deruyter spoke about the challenges his team faces, particularly in defending Colorado’s playmakers.
“It’s a really big challenge this week. They are the best group of receivers that we have faced,” Deruyter said. “Led by [Travis] Hunter, an elite athlete and a great football player. The fact that he does it on both sides is unbelievable … And then you’ve got a quarterback who’s a Heisman candidate, playing extremely well, very poised, reading coverages well, throwing the ball on the run and extending plays. So, it’s a big challenge for our guys.”
Colorado enters the game with a 6-2 record and is ranked No. 21 in the AP Poll. The Buffaloes are favored to win against Texas Tech, who are currently 6-3. The game will take place Saturday at 2 p.m. CT in Lubbock and will be broadcast live on FOX.
Contact CU Independent staff writer Julie Torten Rabinowitz at julie.tortenrabinowitz@colorado.edu
