URGENT UPDATE: The Colorado Buffaloes fought valiantly but ultimately fell to the Kansas State Wildcats, losing 24-14 in their season finale at Bill Snyder Family Stadium on November 25, 2023. Despite having little to play for, CU displayed significant grit throughout the game, but a late surge from K-State sealed their defeat.
The Buffaloes (3-9, 1-8 Big 12) concluded their season on a disappointing five-game losing streak under head coach Deion Sanders. Meanwhile, Kansas State (6-6, 5-4) secured bowl eligibility with this crucial win.
Entering the game as 17.5-point underdogs, Colorado clawed back to within three points at 17-14 in the fourth quarter, but K-State’s decisive 75-yard scoring drive late in the game proved insurmountable.
Star running back Joe Jackson led the Wildcats with an impressive 142 yards and three touchdowns on 25 carries, 60 of those yards coming on the pivotal final drive. CU’s own Micah Welch shined with two touchdowns, while receiver Omarion Miller caught seven passes for 120 yards.
Quarterback Kaidon Salter made his first start since November 1, throwing for 172 yards despite an interception. K-State opened the scoring with a methodical 74-yard drive, capped by a 4-yard touchdown run from Jackson, taking over 7 minutes off the clock.
CU’s response was strong, driving to the Wildcats’ 21-yard line, but a blocked field goal attempt stymied their effort. However, the Buffs didn’t give up; they found rhythm late in the first half, with Welch scoring a game-tying touchdown just 18 seconds before halftime, making it 7-7 at the break.
The second half saw more back-and-forth action. Kansas State regained the lead with a 1-yard touchdown run by Jackson, making it 14-7 in the third quarter. Following a K-State field goal that extended their lead to 17-7, CU mounted a spirited drive that culminated in Welch’s second touchdown, narrowing the gap to 17-14 with just over seven minutes remaining.
In a critical moment, Kansas State responded with a nine-play, 75-yard drive that ended with Jackson scoring again, bringing the final score to 24-14 with just 2:37 left on the clock. CU was unable to rally in the closing moments, marking a tough end to their season.
As the Buffaloes look ahead, the focus will shift to addressing the challenges of the past season, including recruitment and building a stronger team for the next year. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how Coach Sanders will turn the program around after this disappointing finish.
The game and its outcomes resonate deeply with fans, as the Buffaloes aim to reclaim their competitive edge. With the offseason approaching, all eyes will be on the changes and strategies that unfold in Boulder.
