Colorado falls to Utah 23-17 in final Pac-12 game
In a hard-fought battle, Colorado ultimately fell to Utah 23-17 in its final game as a member of the Pac-12. The Buffs (4-8, 1-8 Pac-12) faced the Utes (8-4, 5-4) without star quarterback Shedeur Sanders, who was ruled out earlier in the day Saturday due to arm and ankle injuries suffered in last week’s loss to Washington State. Freshman Ryan Staub made his first career start in Sanders’ place, facing off against a Utes team that has had its own share of injury problems.
During the game, both teams faced tough challenges, with the Utes harnessing the ground game early on and controlling the clock with methodical drives. However, the Buffs’ offense began to gain momentum as Staub led the team down into Utah territory. Playcaller Pat Shurmur pulled off a clever strategy, resulting in the first touchdown of the game. Staub flipped a quick lateral out to receiver Jimmy Horn Jr., who then found running back Dylan Edwards downfield for a 30-yard score, showcasing the Buffs’ offensive potential.
Midway through the game, controversy ensued as Staub found Travis Hunter deep down the right sideline for a potential go-ahead touchdown, only for the officials to overturn the catch to an incomplete pass upon review. Despite this setback, the Buffs were able to secure a field goal just before half, trailing 13-10.
In the third quarter, Utah continued to maintain a strong presence on the field, extending its lead with a Bottari rushing touchdown and a field goal. However, the Buffs weren’t ready to give up. Staub led the team to a comeback, ultimately connecting with Hunter for an 18-yard score to keep the Buffs within reach.
But in the end, Utah’s offensive line proved too formidable for Colorado to surmount. Hunter’s touchdown was the last time the Buffs saw the ball, as Utah dominated up front and controlled possession for the rest of the game.
Staub demonstrated his potential in his first career start, finishing the day 17 for 24 with 195 yards passing and a touchdown. Hunter, his favorite target, had an impressive performance, with the freshman finding the two-way star eight times for 107 yards and a touchdown.
On the other side, Bottari wasn’t asked to do much, as he finished just 6 for 10 with 61 yards and two rushing touchdowns. Utilizing a three-back committee of Sione Vaki, Ja’Quinden Jackson, and Jaylon Glover, Utah ran for 268 yards and consistently pushed the Colorado defensive line. The Utes improved to 8-4 and will be headed to a bowl game next month.
This loss marked the Buffs’ sixth in a row, finishing the season with a record of 4-8 and just 1-8 in Pac-12 play. Despite improvements in Year 1 under Deion Sanders, the team now faces a crucial offseason as they prepare for Year 2.
Scoring Summary
Q1
UTAH: Luke Bottari 2-yard run (Cole Becker Kick) Utah 7-0, 4:03
Q2
UTAH: Cole Becker 34-yard Field Goal, Utah 10-0, 11:17
COLO: Jimmy Horn Jr. 30-yard pass to Dylan Edwards (Alejandro Mata Kick), Utah 10-7, 8:17
UTAH: Cole Becker 22-yard field goal, Utah 13-7, 1:38
COLO: Alejandro Mata 47-yard Field Goal, Utah 13-10, 0:20
Q3
UTAH: Luke Bottari 1-yard run (Cole Becker Kick), Utah 20-10, 7:10
Q4
UTAH: Cole Becker 31-yard Field Goal, Utah 23-10, 11:32
COLO: Ryan Staub 18-yard pass to Travis Hunter (Alejandro Mata Kick), Utah 23-17, 7:31
Overall, the game was an intense battle that showcased the resilience and determination of both teams. While Colorado may have fallen short in its final game as a Pac-12 member, the season provided valuable learning experiences and set the stage for future success.
