UPDATE: The Colorado Buffaloes fought valiantly but ultimately fell to the Kansas State Wildcats, 24-14, during their season finale on November 25, 2023, at Bill Snyder Family Stadium. Despite having little on the line, CU showcased determination against the odds.
The Buffaloes, who concluded their season with a 3-9 overall record and 1-8 in the Big 12, extended their losing streak to five games under head coach Deion Sanders. Meanwhile, Kansas State improved to 6-6, earning bowl eligibility with this crucial victory.
Entering the game as 17.5-point underdogs, Colorado rallied back to within three points at 17-14 midway through the fourth quarter. However, Kansas State sealed the win with a decisive 75-yard scoring drive in the final minutes.
Star running back Joe Jackson was instrumental for the Wildcats, rushing for 142 yards and three touchdowns on 25 carries, including a pivotal 60 yards on the final drive. Colorado’s Micah Welch scored two touchdowns, while receiver Omarion Miller caught seven passes for 120 yards.
Quarterback Kaidon Salter, making his first start since November 1, threw for 172 yards but was hindered by an interception. The game opened with Kansas State dominating, completing a 13-play, 74-yard drive that culminated in Jackson’s 4-yard touchdown run.
Colorado struggled early, with a blocked field goal attempt stalling their progress. However, a second-quarter push saw Salter connect with Miller for a 38-yard pass, leading to a game-tying touchdown by Welch just before halftime, bringing the score to 7-7.
The second half saw Kansas State regain the lead with Jackson’s 1-yard touchdown run, making it 14-7 late in the third quarter. Following a field goal from Luis Rodriguez, the Wildcats extended their lead to 17-7 with just over ten minutes remaining.
Not to be outdone, CU responded with a strong offensive drive, highlighted by Salter’s 43-yard pass to Miller, which set up Welch’s second touchdown to bring the score closer at 17-14 with 7:03 left on the clock.
In a final push for victory, Kansas State orchestrated a nine-play drive that culminated in Jackson’s 17-yard touchdown run, securing the win at 24-14 with just 2:37 remaining. Colorado’s attempts to mount a comeback fell short.
This defeat underscores the challenges faced by the Buffaloes this season, including their struggles in the transfer portal. Fans and analysts will now look forward to the off-season and potential changes as the team aims to rebuild for the next year.
