For the second week in a row, the Colorado Buffaloes limped out of the gate, with a slow start marred by Shedeur Sanders’ interception on the game’s first play. The miscue gave Utah excellent field position, allowing the Utes to open the scoring with a field goal. However, field goals were all Utah could muster in the first half, a reflection of their injury-plagued offense and Colorado’s defensive dominance. At halftime, the Buffaloes held a 21-9 lead with explosive plays and solid defensive efforts.

Colorado’s first-half performance, while effective, was not without flaws. In a controversial moment in the first quarter, what looked like a scoop-and-score from the defense was overturned as an incomplete pass. Despite the seemingly obvious catch and football move, the Buffs chose not to challenge the call. Coupled with costly penalties and instances of unnecessary taunting, Colorado left points and opportunities on the table – mistakes that could prove costly against a healthier or more disciplined opponent.

On the other hand, Utah’s offense struggled. Quarterback Isaac Wilson, who was reportedly having trouble walking, reported the numbers for the first half: 8 of 20 for 62 yards, no touchdowns and an interception. His 3.1 yards per attempt illustrated the Utes’ inability to stretch the field or generate meaningful offensive momentum. The ground game fared no better, with Utah’s running backs averaging 1.6 yards per carry. No backs surpassed 3.0 yards per rush, underscoring Colorado’s dominance at the line of scrimmage.

WATCH: Colorado’s LaJohntay Wester 76-yard punt return touchdown vs. Utah

The story of the half was the Buffaloes’ defense, led by Rob Livingston’s aggressive scheme. Players like Arden Walker, BJ Green, Nikhai Hill-Green, Cam’ron Silmon-Craig and Taje McCoy swarmed to the ball, holding Utah to just two passes for 15 yards and limiting yards after contact. Travis Hunter also impressed defensively, recording two tackles, an interception and a pass breakup, further fueling the Heisman chatter.

Offensively, Colorado standouts included Will Sheppard, who continued to shine with four catches for 59 yards and two touchdowns. Travis Hunter and LaJohntay Wester added nine combined receptions for 82 yards, while Isaiah Augustave showed potential with a solid yards-per-carry average despite limited touches.

Heading into the second half, Colorado must clear the penalties and maintain control of the trenches. Utah, trailing by 12, must find a way to score touchdowns as field goals won’t cut it against a Buffs team known for second-half surges.