Senior quarterback Shedeur Sanders prepares for a game against Utah on Folsom Field on Saturday, Nov 16, 2024 (Hunter Dee/CU Independent)
After a devastating loss to the University of Kansas, the University of Colorado (8-3) faces a dramatic drop in playoff contention heading into its final home game of the regular season against Oklahoma State University (3-8) on Friday at Folsom Field.
Despite the setback to Colorado’s record and potential distractions from the upcoming holidays, the Buffaloes enter this week’s game with a strong chance of success against a struggling OSU team. Colorado boasts powerful players such as Cam’ron Silmon-Craig, BJ Green II and Nikhai Hill-Green, who will lead the defense in an effort to shut down the Cowboys.
Friday’s game is expected to be played under chilly conditions in Boulder, with temperatures predicted to feel like 20 degrees due to wind. This stark contrast to Oklahoma State’s typical conditions could give the Buffaloes an advantage in the final regular-season matchup.
Standout players like Travis Hunter and Isaiah Augustave have continued to make an impact on the field, despite Colorado’s unexpected struggles in last week’s loss to Kansas, which saw the Buffaloes struggle with time of possession and short drives that failed to produce points.
“Tough week, of course, but we plan to respond accordingly – fix the things we let slide last week. Tremendous game … sometimes the little things creep up on you, and you remind yourself of the opportunity you had and pray that you still have an opportunity,” said Colorado head coach Deion Sanders.
Oklahoma State enters the game with low morale after consecutive losses, leaving the Cowboys at 3-8 and ineligible for a bowl game. Quarterback Alan Bowman has posted a 67.4 QB rating, with 16 touchdowns, 2,416 yards, and 12 interceptions this season.
“We had a lot of critical errors on special teams. I was pleased with the way we rushed the ball, and I was pleased with the young quarterback. But the critical errors really cost us the game,” OSU head coach Mike Gundy said.
The final home game of the season will take place at Folsom Field on Friday, Nov. 29, at noon and will be streamed live on ESPN and FOX.
Contact CU Independent football writer Julie Torten Rabinowitz at julie.torten.rabinowitz@colorado.edu
