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This Saturday the Buffs will be taking on BYU in the Alamo Bowl
Welcome back, Buffs fans!
It’s been nearly a month since the Colorado Buffaloes last took the field, and in that time, plenty has transpired. Travis Hunter was awarded the Heisman Trophy, a handful of Buffs have entered the transfer portal, and over a dozen future Buffs have committed to the program. These storylines have been entertaining to follow, but now it’s finally time to get back to football.
This Saturday, the Colorado Buffaloes head to San Antonio to compete in the storied Alamo Bowl. This year’s opponent is the BYU Cougars. For much of the latter half of the season, it looked like this matchup might decide the conference championship. Although circumstances have changed, this game remains a must-watch as the two teams vie for bragging rights and a strong finish to the season. Some fans have expressed disappointment that this bowl game feels like a “third-place playoff” rather than a high-profile out-of-conference matchup. However, the game still holds weight, especially given that Colorado will field all of its starters, including Heisman winner Travis Hunter and star quarterback Shedeur Sanders.
Today, we’ll break down the matchup, explore what to expect from the Buffs, highlight key players, and offer a prediction for this game.
Matchup History
Historically, the Buffs have had the Cougars’ number, holding a 7-3-1 all-time record in the series. However, it’s been a long time since these teams last faced off—1988, to be exact. For most fans, this will feel like an entirely new matchup. Despite the gap in head-to-head history, both programs enter this game with plenty to prove.
The Buffs will look to reaffirm their dominance in the series and end their season on a high note. With their top players available and eager to compete, Colorado is clearly taking this game seriously.
What to Expect from the Buffs
The Buffaloes enter the Alamo Bowl with one of the most dynamic offenses in college football, led by Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter. Both players have already solidified their statuses as top-three draft prospects for April, yet their decision to play in this game underscores their leadership and commitment to the program. While some consider bowl games like this “meaningless,” it’s clear the Buffs aren’t treating it that way.
Offensively, Colorado will rely heavily on their aerial attack. The Buffs’ identity all season has been built on their passing game, and this matchup will be no different. With a deep receiving corps and an experienced quarterback in Sanders, expect the Buffs to light up the scoreboard. Colorado is unlikely to emphasize the run game in this one, instead opting for a “backyard football” style of play that will keep fans on the edge of their seats. Trick plays could be in the cards as well—after all, this is a no-pressure game for the Buffs, and they’ll be looking to have fun while putting on a show.
Defensively, the Buffs will stick to what has worked for them this season: man coverage across the board and an aggressive approach to creating pressure. The defense will aim to disrupt BYU’s quarterback and force turnovers, a strategy that has paid dividends throughout the season. Generating pressure will be key to containing the Cougars’ offense, which has shown flashes of explosiveness but lacked consistency near the end of the year.
Players to Watch
Jimmy Horn Jr.
Horn will be a focal point of the offense in this game after missing much of the second half of the season. The coaching staff has emphasized the importance of getting him involved to help him build film ahead of the draft. Expect Horn to see significant action, particularly out of the slot, as the Buffs spread the field with four or five receivers. Horn has the speed and agility to exploit BYU’s defensive weaknesses, and I predict he’ll finish the game with around 100 yards receiving and at least one touchdown.
Shedeur Sanders
Shedeur has been the heart and soul of this Colorado team, and this game will be another opportunity for him to showcase his elite skill set. Against a BYU defense that has struggled in coverage, Sanders should have plenty of opportunities to pick them apart. Look for him to deliver a high-volume performance, potentially throwing for 350 yards and three or more touchdowns. With nothing to lose, Shedeur will likely be aggressive in targeting his talented group of receivers.
Prediction
This matchup has all the makings of a high-scoring affair, with both teams capable of putting up points in bunches. The Buffs’ offensive firepower should prove to be the difference, as Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter lead the way in what could be a fitting finale to Colorado’s season.
Colorado 37
BYU 30
Outlook
A win in the Alamo Bowl would cap off a remarkable season for Colorado and provide momentum heading into next year. While this game won’t change the Buffs’ standings, it’s an opportunity for the team to showcase their talent on a national stage and send their seniors and NFL-bound stars off in style.
The Buffs have been one of the most exciting stories in college football this year, and Saturday’s game will be another chance for fans to see what makes this team special. Be sure to tune in to the action, and as always, Sko Buffs!
by Jacob.Thompson
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