BOULDER, Colo. — The Colorado Buffaloes are gearing up for their upcoming match against Arizona, with the anticipated return of injured wide receivers Travis Hunter and Jimmy Horn Jr. confirmed by head coach Deion Sanders. The duo, who are battling injuries—Hunter with a shoulder issue and Horn with a knee problem—are projected to be fit enough to play, bringing relief to the team.
However, not all injury updates are encouraging for the Buffaloes’ receiving squad. Coach Sanders revealed during his weekly press briefing that Omarion Miller, who recently had surgery for a broken lower left leg, and Terrell Timmons Jr., whose injury details remain unspecified, will be sidelined for an undetermined period. Miller’s surgery raises concerns about his possible absence for the rest of the season.
In light of these setbacks, receiver LaJohntay Wester expressed confidence in the team’s depth, stating, “Our receiving room is really deep. Even the young guys who don’t have actual game-time experience, just the way they practice and attack the day, I’m real confident in our group. I don’t think it’s going to be any fall off.”
Travis Hunter, who is gaining traction as a Heisman contender for his exceptional dual-role play, faced injury during a close game against No. 17 Kansas State that ended in a 31-28 defeat. He suffered his shoulder injury in a fierce collision while making a catch. Despite the hit, he managed to retain possession but signaled to the sideline for a substitution shortly after, illustrating the commitment he embodies on the field.
Last season, Hunter missed three games due to a lacerated liver caused by a tough hit against Colorado State, amplifying concerns about his current injury status. So far this season, Hunter has showcased his skills, making 49 catches for 587 yards while also contributing defensively with two interceptions and a forced fumble.
Despite having a weakened receiving lineup, quarterback Shedeur Sanders delivered an impressive performance against Kansas State, setting a program record by completing 16 consecutive passes at one point. He concluded the game with 34 completions out of 40 attempts, amassing 388 passing yards, three touchdowns, and one interception. His strong performance has also placed him in the Heisman race, alongside current favorites Ashton Jeanty from Boise State and Dillon Gabriel from Oregon.
Reflecting on the team’s injury woes, Sanders expressed disbelief, stating, “I never thought four receivers would get injured in one game. That’s just ridiculous. But things happen, life happens, so we’ve just got to roll with it and do what we’ve got to do for next week. We have to keep going no matter what.”