The Colorado Buffaloes hosting the Utah Utes will be a pivotal game, one that could redefine the trajectory of Colorado’s season. This late-season clash highlights the stark contrast between two teams that entered 2024 with very different expectations and took paths that no one could have foreseen. The stakes are high for both programs, and the stories surrounding this game make it one of the most intriguing contests of the season.

For Utah, the season started with aspirations of a College Football Playoff berth. Head coach Kyle Whittingham had a roster loaded with talent, a proven system and an experienced quarterback in Cam Rising to lead the charge. However, injuries have derailed a dominant campaign. Rising’s absence has been particularly damaging, as his leadership and playmaking ability are central to Utah’s identity. Without him, the offense has struggled to maintain its usual efficiency, forcing the Utes to rely heavily on their defense. While Utah’s defensive unit remains formidable, the inability to sustain drives and control the clock has left the team in an unfamiliar position: playing for pride rather than championships.

On the other hand, Colorado started the season with plenty of hype, but tempered expectations. Head coach Deion Sanders brought a level of energy and attention to Boulder in his first year at the helm that the program had not seen in decades. Critics wondered if the Buffaloes could back up the noise on the field. Four months later, those doubts have largely been silenced. Despite a few setbacks, Colorado has become one of the most compelling stories in college football. With just two losses (one of which was a close game against a highly ranked opponent), the Buffaloes control their destiny within the Big 12 Conference.

This matchup against Utah is crucial for Colorado, not only to maintain momentum, but also to solidify their legitimacy as a conference power. However, it would be a dangerous mistake to overlook Utah. Whittingham’s teams have long been known for their resilience, and even a depleted Utah squad is capable of pulling off an upset. The Utes will bring a level of physicality and discipline that could disrupt Colorado’s rhythm, especially if the Buffaloes aren’t fully prepared.

Colorado will wear ‘Salute to Service’ uniforms against Utah

For the Buffaloes, this game is about staying focused and avoiding the pitfalls of complacency. Colorado has weathered a tough schedule admirably, with their only poor performance coming in a game that now feels like an outlier. The Buffaloes have shown they can adapt, perform and thrive under pressure. With the stakes so high, this is no time to give up. In addition to the tactical elements, the emotional weight of the week cannot be ignored. It’s Peggy Coppom’s 100th birthday week and the energy around the program reflects the desire to honor one of Colorado’s most beloved fans with a victory.

If the Buffaloes take care of business, they will set themselves up for a strong finish to the season and a chance to make noise in the Big 12 Championship. However, a lack of focus can lead to a costly setback. This game is about more than just rankings or records; it’s about proving that Colorado’s rise is not a fluke and that they are here to stay.