By Garin Turner
The Colorado Buffaloes (2-2) step into the national spotlight Saturday night as they travel to Provo to take on No. 25 BYU (3-0) in Big 12 action. Kickoff is set for 10:15 p.m. EST on ESPN.
Colorado’s Season So Far
It has been an up-and-down start for the Buffaloes. They opened the season with a narrow 27-20 loss to Georgia Tech before bouncing back in Week Two with a convincing 31-7 win over Delaware. Colorado then stumbled at Houston, falling 36-20, but responded last weekend with a 37-20 victory over Wyoming to even their record at 2-2.
By the Numbers
Offense (National Rank):
• Total Offense: 375 yards per game (83rd)
• Passing: 233.8 yards (68th)
• Rushing: 141.3 yards (90th)
• Scoring: 27 points (83rd)
Defense (National Rank):
• Total Defense: 409.3 yards allowed (112th)
• Passing: 214.8 yards allowed (79th)
• Rushing: 194.5 yards allowed (122nd)
• Scoring: 22.5 points allowed (66th)
The Buffaloes have been middle-of-the-pack offensively, but their defensive struggles — particularly against the run — could be a deciding factor against BYU.
Key Matchup
Colorado’s offense will need to find ways to score consistently to keep up with BYU. Quarterback Kaidon Salter has been steady so far, showing efficiency through the air and mobility on the ground, but the Buffs will need explosive plays from their receiving corps to hang with the Cougars.
Team Leaders
• Passing: Kaidon Salter – 565 yards, 4 TD, 0 INT
• Rushing: Kaidon Salter – 154 yards, 3 TD
• Receiving: Sincere Brown – 7 receptions, 203 yards, 2 TD
Prediction
This matchup has all the makings of a shootout. Both teams have the firepower to light up the scoreboard, and it could come down to whichever offense has the final possession.
Prediction: Colorado 45, BYU 44
