On Saturday, the Colorado Buffaloes (4-2, 2-1 Big 12) are set to take on the Arizona Wildcats (3-3, 1-2) at 4 p.m. ET, broadcasted on Fox.
Colorado is currently favored by 3.5 points according to BetMGM College Football odds, with the historical series record showing Colorado in the lead at 16-10.
In their first meeting since transitioning from the Pac-12 to the Big 12, both teams face pressure after recent losses. Colorado suffered a narrow defeat against Kansas State, with a final score of 31-28, thanks to a last-minute touchdown pass. This game took a toll on the Buffaloes, leaving them with injuries, particularly among their wide receivers. However, they expect contributions from two-way star Travis Hunter and Jimmy Horn Jr., while Omarion Miller and Terrell Timmons Jr. will be sidelined indefinitely.
On the other hand, Arizona is returning to their home field after consecutive defeats—a heartbreaking loss to Texas Tech followed by a 41-19 setback against No. 13 BYU, where they committed four turnovers.
Among the pivotal matchups to watch is that of Colorado’s Travis Hunter versus Arizona’s standout receiver, Tetairoa McMillan. Hunter has emerged as a Heisman Trophy contender, showcasing his skills on both offense and defense. Although Hunter may not directly oppose McMillan on every play, he will certainly play a key role in strategizing to contain the preseason All-American. McMillan has had a fantastic season, leading the Big 12 with 42 receptions and ranking third in the FBS with 742 receiving yards and four touchdowns, all while facing heavy defensive pressure. Fortunately for the Buffaloes, Hunter is anticipated to play despite having injured his shoulder against Kansas State.
In terms of individual performers to spotlight, watch for Colorado’s Shilo Sanders. The son of head coach Deion Sanders returned from a broken forearm but had a challenging game in their recent loss, describing it as the “worst game of my life.” Coach Sanders acknowledged that his son was indeed rusty and emphasized that a noteworthy comeback is essential as they prepare to take on Arizona’s dynamic offense.
For Arizona, quarterback Noah Fifita is also one to watch, as he broke out last year after filling in for Jayden de Laura due to injury. However, his performance has been inconsistent this season, accumulating 1,636 passing yards but throwing more interceptions (9) than touchdown passes (8). His completion percentage has also dipped to 58.5.
Some interesting facts to note: Colorado recorded minus-29 rushing yards against Kansas State—the lowest in the program’s history—while also surrendering six sacks. Arizona’s Tre Smith ranks third nationally in quarterback hurries, with 19 to his name. Colorado’s quarterback, Shedeur Sanders, is fourth in the nation with 2,018 passing yards, whereas Arizona is ranked 14th nationally for the least number of sacks allowed, only six.