Sep 273 min read

Eye of the Storm: Colorado Meets UCF in Inaugural Clash

Colorado | QB Shedeur Sanders — © Christopher Hanewinckel-Imagn Images

Fresh off of come-from-behind victories, the Colorado Buffaloes and UCF Knights will clash in the Sunshine State after Hurricane Helene blew through. The game is set for Sept. 28 at 3:30 p.m. ET. As the Big 12 Conference schedule marches on, the victor of this epic matchup could end up making some serious noise come October and November.

Series History

This thrilling showdown on Sept. 28 marks the first-ever football meeting between Colorado and UCF. The Knights, who became a Division I program in 1996, joined the Big 12 on July 1, 2023. Entering his fourth season as head coach, Gus Malzahn had high expectations for his team prior to the season. As members of the American Athletic Conference, UCF celebrated a landmark achievement in 2017, claiming its first National Championship with a perfect 13-0 record. Alabama, though, is recognized as the "official" National Champion from that season.

On the other hand, Colorado has deep roots in the Big 12, having been a founding member in 1947 when it was known as the Big 8. The Buffaloes boast a rich history, with 726 all-time wins, compared to the Knights' 298 victories since their ascent to Division I.

Keys to Victory: Colorado Buffaloes

Without a doubt, things looked dire for head coach Deion Sanders and the Colorado Buffaloes after they were shellacked 28-10 by the Nebraska Cornhuskers. However, credit where credit is due: CU has rebounded nicely, silencing critics with back-to-back wins. Still, the offensive line remains more miss than hit, having surrendered 8 sacks in the victory over Baylor. Despite the chaos in the backfield, the hog mollies up front showed promise against Colorado State, allowing just 1 sack. Ultimately, keeping QB Shedeur Sanders upright will be priority No. 1. Fortunately for the Buffs, UCF's pass rush has accounted for only 1 sack this season, and CU will certainly aim to keep it that way.

Keys to Victory: UCF Knights

On paper, the Knights present the Buffaloes with their toughest challenge of the young season. UCF's offense has shown no signs of slowing down, boasting the nation's top rushing attack at an impressive 336 yards per game. This physical brand of football is driven by running back RJ Harvey, who is making waves in his senior campaign with 448 rushing yards, ranking eighth nationally. While Colorado has yet to allow a 100-yard rusher and limits opponents to just 3.34 yards per carry, winning the battle in the trenches will be crucial for UCF's success.

Offensive Maestros

Shedeur Sanders versus K.J. Jefferson: A clash of experience with a combined 77 starts between them. Truly, experience is the best teacher. Each signal caller can inflict significant damage with their arms and extend plays with their feet. If this contest goes down to the wire, then the quarterback who has the ball last may very well lead their team to victory.

Quick on the Draw

Just like Clint Eastwood in a Western, being the first to pull the trigger by reaching the end zone in this showdown could mean being the last one standing. As the first month of the college football season draws to a close, it's still challenging to gauge what Colorado and UCF are truly made of. Are the Buffaloes making significant strides in Year 2 of the "Coach Prime" era? Can they put together two solid halves? Have the Knights faced a real test through their first three games? These are questions that need to be addressed. Until more clarity emerges, a swift start in the scoring department could provide some possible answers as this contest progresses to its later stages.

Final Thoughts

Buckle up for a scoring frenzy in this high-flying clash between two Big 12 rivals. With rumors swirling about a significant number of recruits in town for one of the weekend's biggest college football matchups, both teams donning black and gold will be eager to put their best foot forward. A perfect 2-0 start in conference play could elevate either side to contender status in the Big 12. UCF may be favored, but it would be unwise to underestimate Colorado at this point.