BREAKING: The Colorado Buffaloes fought valiantly but fell to the Kansas State Wildcats, losing 24-14 in their season finale at Bill Snyder Family Stadium on November 25, 2023. Despite a challenging season, CU showcased determination, battling back to make it a close game in the fourth quarter.
The Buffaloes, finishing the season with a disappointing 3-9 record and 1-8 in the Big 12, closed out their third season under head coach Deion Sanders with a five-game losing streak. Kansas State, on the other hand, improved to 6-6 and secured bowl eligibility with this crucial victory.
Initially entering the game as 17.5-point underdogs, the Buffaloes managed to pull within striking distance at 17-14 midway through the fourth quarter. However, Kansas State sealed the game with a decisive 75-yard scoring drive that culminated in a touchdown.
Star running back Joe Jackson was a standout for the Wildcats, amassing 142 yards and three touchdowns on 25 carries, including a vital 60 yards during the final drive. CU’s own running back, Micah Welch, made an impact by scoring two touchdowns, while receiver Omarion Miller caught seven passes for 120 yards.
The game kicked off with Kansas State asserting dominance, executing a methodical 13-play, 74-yard drive that took over 7 minutes off the clock, capped by a 4-yard touchdown run by Jackson. Colorado responded well, reaching the K-State 21-yard line, but a blocked field goal thwarted their scoring attempt.
As the first half progressed, CU’s defense stepped up, forcing two three-and-outs and a crucial fourth-down stop by Keaten Wade. The Buffaloes found their rhythm late in the half, with a drive led by impressive runs from Hayden and a connection from Salter to Miller for 38 yards, resulting in a game-tying touchdown just 18 seconds before halftime.
The second half saw CU attempt to build momentum, but they fell short on a crucial fourth down. Kansas State capitalized, scoring another touchdown through Jackson to take a 14-7 lead. A field goal from K-State’s Luis Rodriguez extended the lead to 17-7 early in the fourth quarter.
In a dramatic turn, the Buffs responded with a 75-yard drive, highlighted by a 43-yard pass from quarterback Kaidon Salter to Miller, followed by Welch’s second touchdown. With just 7:03 left, CU was within three points.
However, Kansas State quickly regained control, orchestrating a nine-play drive that ended with a 17-yard touchdown run from Jackson, pushing the score to 24-14 with 2:37 remaining. The Buffaloes failed to rally in the final minutes, unable to mount a comeback.
This season for Colorado has been marked by struggles, including issues with the transfer portal impacting team performance. As the team looks to regroup, fans are left wondering what changes may be made in the offseason to improve next year.
Stay tuned for more updates as the Buffaloes assess their future and prepare for the challenges ahead.
