In a thrilling matchup against Baylor, the Colorado Buffaloes showcased their resilience and talent, earning a hard-fought 38-31 overtime victory. With standout performances from Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter, Colorado’s offense and defense worked in tandem to overcome a strong Baylor team.

The final moments of regulation saw Colorado needing a Hail Mary to tie the score. Travis Hunter, the Buffaloes’ versatile star, was positioned as a decoy, despite his six receptions and 126 yards. The strategy aimed to draw Baylor defenders toward Hunter and create an opening for receiver LaJohntay Wester, whose smaller stature led Baylor to underestimate his potential.

“Travis was the attention grabber, and LaJohntay was one-on-one on the outside,” explained Buffaloes quarterback Shedeur Sanders. “They didn’t expect us to throw to him.” Sanders rolled to the left, as intended, while defenders followed Hunter. Trusting the play, Sanders heaved the ball toward Wester.

The throw from Baylor’s 49-yard line reached Wester, who leaped between two defenders and scored. The game-tying touchdown brought Colorado back to life, sending the game into overtime. The final score, 38-31, secured one of the most exciting finishes under head coach Deion Sanders. This marked Colorado’s first Big 12 win since rejoining the league.

“Great win,” Deion Sanders said. “Our players showed resilience and never gave up.” The sentiment was echoed across the Buffaloes team.

Shedeur Sanders, who ended the game with 341 passing yards, had a memorable performance. His touchdown passes included a 58-yard strike to Omarion Miller before halftime and a 43-yard throw to Wester as time expired in the fourth quarter. He also orchestrated the overtime drive, culminating in running back Micah Welch’s second rushing touchdown of the game.

“I live by the word ‘legendary,’” said Shedeur Sanders. “That’s ingrained in me and drives me through these moments.”

Travis Hunter’s Heisman-Worthy Performance

Travis Hunter, emerging as a Heisman Trophy contender, furthered his case with a stellar game. Hunter recorded 130 receiving yards on seven catches. But his most crucial play came on defense during overtime, when Baylor’s Dominic Richardson seemed destined for a game-winning touchdown. Hunter intervened, knocking the ball loose just before the goal line.

Colorado fans stormed the field after the officials reviewed the play and ruled the ball had been fumbled before crossing into the end zone.

“Shedeur told me to go and get the ball,” said Hunter. “I knew I had to make the tackle. They didn’t expect me to, but I had to prove them wrong.”

Wester’s Moment of Glory

On the final snap of regulation, Hunter’s role as a decoy created the perfect opportunity for LaJohntay Wester, a recent transfer to Colorado. Wester’s diving catch cemented his role as a key player in Colorado’s offense. Reflecting on the moment, Wester said, “As a receiver, your job is to make the quarterback look good, no matter the throw.”

Wester’s contributions to the Buffaloes were instrumental, providing Sanders with a reliable target and helping keep the game within reach.

Baylor’s Defensive Lapse

Baylor head coach Dave Aranda expressed regret over the defensive miscommunication during Colorado’s game-tying play. He explained that the defensive strategy, known as “victory cigar,” was supposed to force Sanders toward a contained rush. However, the plan fell apart when players didn’t follow the assignment.

“I take full responsibility,” said Aranda. “I need to coach that better.”

Despite Baylor’s defensive efforts, which included eight sacks and several tackles for loss, Colorado’s offensive line held firm when it mattered most.

A Party at Folsom Field

After the win, the Buffaloes celebrated on the field and in the locker room. Coach Sanders praised the fan base for their support but also mentioned he regretted missing the opportunity to shake hands with Baylor’s coach due to the field storming.

“We have amazing fans,” Sanders said. “They live and breathe Colorado football, and I’m thankful for that.”

Colorado’s offensive line also deserved credit, helping the Buffaloes rack up three rushing touchdowns. Despite giving up sacks, they made key plays during the overtime drive. Running back Micah Welch, responsible for two touchdowns, echoed the team’s excitement, saying, “We can run the ball, and we proved the doubters wrong.”

Baylor missed a critical field goal late in the game, allowing Colorado to take advantage and eventually win. Deion Sanders reflected on the tense moments, comparing them to Colorado’s dramatic games from the previous season.

“It felt like last year again,” Sanders joked. “But I’m thrilled with the result.”

Conclusion

Colorado’s victory over Baylor highlighted the leadership of Shedeur Sanders, the skill of Travis Hunter, and the depth of their receiving corps, including Wester. The Buffaloes’ ability to fight back from multiple deficits, execute key plays in critical moments, and withstand Baylor’s defensive pressure is a testament to their growth under Deion Sanders.

The road ahead for Colorado is promising, as they continue to build momentum in the Big 12.