UPDATE: The Colorado Buffaloes fought valiantly but ultimately fell to the Kansas State Wildcats 24-14 in their season finale on November 25, 2023, at Bill Snyder Family Stadium in Manhattan, Kansas. This loss marks the end of a difficult season for CU, who finished with a record of 3-9 and a five-game losing streak under head coach Deion Sanders.
The Buffaloes entered the game as 17.5-point underdogs but showed resilience, pulling within three points at 17-14 midway through the fourth quarter. However, Kansas State sealed the game with a decisive 75-yard drive that culminated in a touchdown with just under three minutes left.
Kansas State’s standout running back, Joe Jackson, dominated the field, rushing for 142 yards and scoring three touchdowns on 25 carries. His performance included a critical 60-yard run on the Wildcats’ final drive, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.
Colorado’s offensive efforts featured running back Micah Welch, who scored two touchdowns, and receiver Omarion Miller, who caught seven passes for 120 yards. Quarterback Kaidon Salter, making his first start since November 1, threw for 172 yards but also faced challenges, including an interception.
The game commenced with Kansas State executing an impressive 13-play, 74-yard drive that consumed 7 minutes and 40 seconds of the clock, leading to an early touchdown by Jackson. Colorado initially struggled, with a blocked field goal attempt stalling their response.
However, the Buffs found their footing late in the first half. A series of successful runs by Hayden, combined with a 38-yard pass from Salter to Miller, set up a game-tying touchdown just before halftime, concluding the first half at 7-7.
As the second half unfolded, Colorado’s momentum faltered. Despite a promising drive that ended without a first down, Kansas State capitalized, scoring again to take the lead 14-7 with a short touchdown run by Jackson.
The Buffaloes continued to battle, with Salter leading a 75-yard drive that resulted in another touchdown from Welch, narrowing the score to 17-14. Yet, Kansas State responded with a game-sealing drive, capped by a 17-yard touchdown run from Jackson.
With only 2:37 remaining, CU was unable to mount a comeback, concluding their season in disappointment. The loss highlights not only the challenges faced this year but also the potential for growth moving into the next season.
As the CU Buffaloes look to regroup, fans and analysts will be watching closely for potential changes and improvements in the offseason. The season may have ended, but the anticipation for what lies ahead is just beginning.
