Kansas State edged out Colorado 31-28

In a closely fought game on October 12, 2024, Kansas State edged out Colorado 31-28. Colorado staged a strong comeback after trailing 21-7 in the third quarter. Shedeur Sanders connected with LaJohntay Wester for a late touchdown, putting Colorado ahead 28-24, but Kansas State's quarterback Avery Johnson led a game-winning drive, capped by a touchdown with just over two minutes left.

Key Injuries:

Travis Hunter, Colorado's standout two-way player, exited the October 12 game against Kansas State due to a shoulder injury. He left the field in the second quarter, appearing to be in pain after a hit during a 14-yard reception. Although he returned to the sideline in uniform, he did not re-enter the game and remained without his helmet for the rest of the match. After the game, coach Deion Sanders stated that there was no immediate update on Hunter's condition.

Omarion Miller, Colorado's promising wide receiver, suffered a leg injury during the game against Kansas State on October 12, 2024. The injury occurred after a 51-yard reception in the fourth quarter, and he had to leave the field in a wheelchair. Coach Deion Sanders did not provide any specific updates on Miller's condition immediately after the game, but his injury, along with others on the team, raises concerns about Colorado's offensive depth moving forward.

Stats:

Shedeur Sanders completed 34 of 40 passes for 388 yards and three touchdowns. He also set a school record by completing 16 straight passes during the game. Despite his impressive stats, Colorado fell short, losing 31-28

Avery Johnson threw for 176 yards and two touchdowns, including the game-winner late in the fourth quarter. Johnson also added 63 rushing yards and a rushing touchdown. Running back DJ Giddens led the ground attack with 182 rushing yards, becoming the first player to rush for over 100 yards against Colorado this season.

Kansas State outgained Colorado 185 to -29 in rushing yards Kansas State running back DJ Giddens had an outstanding game against Colorado on October 12, 2024, rushing for 182 yards. He became the first player to rush for over 100 yards against Colorado this season, playing a pivotal role in Kansas State's 31-28 victory

Colorado (CU) still has a strong chance to become bowl-eligible, as they currently have a 4-2 record. To qualify, they need two more wins to reach the six-win threshold for bowl eligibility. The remainder of their schedule includes winnable games, but they also face tough opponents in the Pac-12, such as Arizona, Washington, and Utah. If Shedeur Sanders and the team stay healthy and continue performing well, CU has a realistic shot at making a bowl game this season.

Colorado's upcoming football opponents for the rest of the 2024 season include:

1. October 19 – at Arizona

2. October 26 – vs Oklahoma State

3. November 2 – at Texas Tech

4. November 9 – vs Arizona State

5. November 16 – at Washington

6. November 23 – vs Utah

These matchups will be key in determining if Colorado can reach bowl eligibility