Under the leadership of the enigmatic Deion Sanders, the Colorado Buffaloes football team showcased their offensive prowess, posting a 31-26 victory over the North Dakota State Bison in their season opener.
In the second year of Coach Prime's transformative tenure at the University of Colorado, the Buffaloes displayed a remarkable offensive firepower that propelled them to a resounding victory over North Dakota State. Thursday's season opener marked Colorado's inaugural game as a member of the prestigious Big 12 conference.
Colorado Football Soars in Coach Prime's Second Season, Defeats North Dakota State
Colorado ignited the game with an explosive start, scoring touchdowns on their first two drives. Travis Hunter's electrifying 41-yard touchdown run and Sheduer Sanders' pinpoint pass to Jimmy Horn Jr. for a 70-yard score set the tone. However, Colorado's defense faltered early, allowing North Dakota State to surge ahead with a 20-17 halftime lead.
The second half witnessed the dynamic duo of Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter torment the Bison defense. With Hunter hauling in a deep reception, Colorado marched into the NDSU red zone but were denied a touchdown due to a fortunate interception. Undeterred, Sanders and Hunter reconnected for a spectacular 24-20 lead, showcasing their exceptional talent.
Colorado Football Soars in Coach Prime's Second Season, Defeats North Dakota State
Colorado's defense asserted itself in the third quarter, forcing NDSU to punt on both of their possessions. Simultaneously, Sanders and Hunter continued to mesmerize, culminating in an audacious catch by Hunter in the end zone, extending the Buffs' lead to 31-20 midway through the fourth quarter.
NDSU quarterback Cam Miller found the endzone with just under three minutes remaining, but the Bison's two-point conversion attempt failed. With 31 seconds left, NDSU had one final opportunity but their desperate pass fell incomplete at the five-yard line, sealing Colorado's victory.
Colorado Football Soars in Coach Prime's Second Season, Defeats North Dakota State
Shedeur Sanders orchestrated an impressive performance, completing 26 of 34 passes for 445 yards and four touchdowns. Hunter and Horn combined for 330 receiving yards, with Hunter's 132-yard output and Horn's 198-yard effort showcasing their exceptional playmaking ability.
This victory marks Colorado's first since October 2023, breaking an eight-game losing streak that culminated in a disappointing end to last season. With the upcoming season filled with conference matchups, the Buffs seek to establish themselves in the highly competitive Big 12. Their next two games on the road, against Nebraska and Colorado State, will provide further tests before their home conference opener against Baylor in Week 4.
Colorado Football Soars in Coach Prime's Second Season, Defeats North Dakota State
