Recapping Colorado's blowout win over the Wildcats
Despite losing two-way superstar Travis Hunter for the entire second half, the Colorado Buffaloes secured a dominant 34-7 road win over the Arizona Wildcats on Saturday afternoon. Head coach Deion Sanders' Buffs started fast and finished strong, cruising to their third Big 12 victory.
While four different Buffs scored either a rushing or receiving touchdown, Colorado's defense stole the show in Tucson. Arizona quarterback Noah Fifita was harassed throughout and star wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan was held to only 38 receiving yards.
Now sitting 5-2 overall (3-1 Big 12), the Buffs are one win away from becoming bowl-eligible for the first time in a full season since 2016.
Here's a quick recap of Colorado's strong showing against Arizona:
The good
Colorado's defense played arguably its best game of the year, tallying seven sacks, seven TFLs, one interception and two fumble recoveries.
The bad
Although his injury doesn't appear serious, Travis Hunter leaving early for "preventative measures" wasn't ideal. It might be wise to sit the two-way superstar against Cincinnati next Saturday with another bye week coming up after.
Offensive MVP
Wide receiver LaJohntay Wester hauled in a season-high 127 receiving yards on eight catches.
Defensive MVP
Besides his roughing the passer penalty, defensive lineman Samuel Okunlola enjoyed a big day blowing past Arizona's O-line. The Pitt transfer finished with two sacks and two tackles for loss.
Standout stat
Colorado's seven sacks on the afternoon marked the team's most in a single game since 2010.
Noteworthy quote
Here's what safety Shilo Sanders said following the win (h/t Jake Schwanitz of DNVR Buffs):
“This game was the biggest for the team, especially for me. It just shows you how we can go out there and accomplish anything.”
What's next?
Needing a win to secure bowl eligibility, the Buffaloes will host Cincinnati on Saturday, Oct. 26. The Bearcats are also 5-2 (3-1 Big 12) after taking down Arizona State in Week 8, 24-14.
Kickoff between Colorado and Cincinnati is set for 8:15 p.m. MT on ESPN.
This article originally appeared on Buffaloes Wire: Recapping Colorado's blowout win over the Wildcats