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The Buffs won their fourth straight and control their destiny in the Big 12 race.
This weekend, we saw the Buffaloes take on a Utah team that has historically had our number, but this time was much different. The game was never really in doubt, and it became clear early on that Utah’s offense was extremely limited in their attack. From turnovers to big pass plays, long runs and a punt return, this game was filled with chaotic moments. Today, we’ll dive into the top five pivotal plays that determined the outcome of this game.
#5: Travis Hunter’s Touchdown
This play was chaotic from start to finish, but it all worked out in the end. Many will remember it as a moment late in the game where the Buffs were clearly trying to get Travis Hunter the ball to boost his Heisman campaign. The play began with Travis coming in motion and receiving a handoff from Shedeur Sanders, but nobody in the stadium could’ve predicted what happened next. Travis reached the numbers, reversed field, turned upfield, and found just enough space to leap into the end zone—but that wasn’t how the play was drawn up.
The original plan was for Travis to get the ball, Shedeur to leak out of the backfield, and for Travis to hit him on a pass for the touchdown. Once Shedeur leaked out, it was obvious he wasn’t going to be open. Travis improvised and created a moment of magic.
#4: Drelon Miller’s Touchdown
The Buffs may have a future star in true freshman Drelon Miller. He’s a unique talent, described by Deion Sanders as Colorado’s version of Deebo Samuel. Built like a running back but with the skillset of a receiver, Drelon was utilized in both the slot and the backfield against Utah, showcasing his versatility.
Drelon’s biggest plays came from running seam routes out of the slot. Designed to beat two-high safety coverage, or “shell,” this route is relatively straightforward. While we haven’t yet seen the full scope of his potential, plays like this provide a glimpse of what’s to come in the years ahead.
Here’s a look at Drelon’s play that best highlighted his dual-threat ability:
#3: Will Sheppard’s First Touchdown
Let’s take a moment to acknowledge Will Sheppard. This guy is a legitimate talent. At 6’4” he’s every bit as dominant as he looks from the sidelines. His length, speed and polished skillset make him a clear NFL prospect. When scouts watch him, they’ll see a player with great physical tools, a knack for creating separation and soft hands to secure one- and two-handed catches.
The formula for Will is simple: if he’s in single coverage, throw him the ball. Early in the game, Shedeur Sanders did just that. Spotting a free play, Shedeur lobbed it up, trusting Will to come down with it. This connection is only going to grow stronger down the stretch for the Buffs.
#2: Travis Hunter’s Miraculous Catch
By now, we’ve all seen this highlight, but the unbelievability of the catch can’t be overstated. Shedeur threw the ball into double coverage, trusting Travis Hunter to make something spectacular happen—and that’s exactly what he did.
#1: LaJohntay Wester’s Punt Return
This play was a turning point for Colorado for a couple of reasons, but most importantly, it showed that the Buffs could be explosive on special teams. Colorado’s special teams unit delivered their best performance of the season, from Mark Vassett’s consistent punting to kickoffs sailing through the end zone on kick-offs. And, of course, that punt return touchdown.
The immediate impact of Wester’s return was giving Colorado a two-score lead in the first quarter, but the long-term significance was even greater. Punt returns force the opposing offense back into play, and with Utah’s offense already struggling, Isaac Wilson and company were the last ones who wanted to return to the field so quickly.
Congratulations to LaJohntay Wester on his first punt return touchdown of the season. Special teams were a major strength for Wester before his transfer to Colorado and it was fantastic to see him shine again. Coach Prime credited personnel and schematic adjustments for the unit’s success and expects even more improvement going forward.
Here’s a look at Wester’s incredible return:
by Jacob.Thompson
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