In a commanding performance, Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders led the Buffaloes to a 48-21 blowout victory over UCF on Saturday, helping the team improve to 4-1 on the season. Sanders threw for 290 yards and three touchdowns, guiding the Buffaloes to match their total wins from last season. This marks Colorado’s third consecutive win following their road loss to Nebraska earlier this season.
Sanders, who emerged as one of the nation’s top quarterbacks last year after his father, head coach Deion Sanders, took over Colorado’s struggling program, once again showed why he’s a rising star. His connection with two-way sensation Travis Hunter was pivotal, with Hunter not only catching a touchdown but also grabbing a key interception that helped seal the victory.
Hunter’s touchdown came on a 23-yard reception in the first quarter, and his Heisman-worthy interception in the second half was a major momentum shift for Colorado. He finished the game with nine catches on nine targets, totaling 89 yards, showcasing his dual-threat ability. After the interception, Hunter struck the iconic Heisman pose, solidifying his star status on both sides of the ball.
Despite throwing an interception on the third play of the game, Shedeur Sanders bounced back quickly, completing 28 of 35 passes. He connected with Will Sheppard for a 47-yard touchdown and later found LaJohntay Wester for a 10-yard score. With a balanced offensive attack, the Buffaloes also got ground support from running backs Dallan Hayden and Micah Welch, who combined for 128 rushing yards and two touchdowns.
Defensively, Colorado was just as impressive, holding UCF’s high-powered rushing attack—averaging a nation-leading 375.7 rushing yards per game—well below its usual output. The Buffaloes forced four turnovers, including two key interceptions by KJ Jefferson, one of which came in the end zone, killing UCF’s momentum. Jefferson, who had led the UCF offense efficiently all season, struggled under pressure from Colorado’s defense.
The Buffaloes’ defense came up clutch late in the game when safety Cam’Ron Silmon-Craig scooped up a fumble in the closing minutes and returned it 95 yards for Colorado’s final touchdown. That play capped off a suffocating defensive performance that frustrated UCF and silenced their usually explosive ground game.
For Colorado, this victory not only extends their winning streak to three games but also signals continued progress under Deion Sanders’ leadership. After a 4-8 campaign last year, the Buffaloes are showing significant growth in the Big 12 and are poised to keep climbing the standings. Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter have become the faces of this resurgence, with their chemistry and talent on full display against UCF.
As the Buffaloes head into the heart of their Big 12 schedule, they’ll look to build on the momentum from this win. With Sanders continuing to shine at quarterback and Hunter making game-changing plays on both sides of the ball, Colorado appears to be a legitimate contender in the conference.
This 48-21 victory over UCF was not only a statement win but also a testament to how far the Buffaloes have come since Deion Sanders took over the program. With their defense clicking and their offense firing on all cylinders, Colorado looks ready to compete at the highest level as the season progresses.
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