Colorado returns to Folsom Field on Saturday night for a difficult Big 12 matchup against No. 11 Utah. The Buffaloes are looking to end a three-game losing streak, while the undefeated Utes hope to continue their strong start to the 2026 season.
Utah enters the game 5-0 overall and 2-0 in conference play, while Colorado sits at 2-3 and 0-2 in the Big 12. Kickoff is scheduled for 8:15 p.m. MT on ESPN. With the rivalry adding another layer of intensity, both teams have plenty at stake in Boulder.
Utah Brings a Dangerous Offense
The Utes have been one of the most productive teams in college football through the first five games.
Quarterback Devon Dampier has helped lead an offense averaging 42.8 points per game. He has thrown for 12 touchdowns while completing 71.8% of his passes, giving Utah an effective passing attack to complement its ground game.
Running back Wayshawn Parker has also been a major difference-maker. Parker has recorded 11 total touchdowns and has rushed for more than 170 yards in each of Utah’s last two games.
Head coach Morgan Scalley has his team playing with confidence on both sides of the football. Utah is allowing just 13 points per game, making the Utes a challenging opponent for a Colorado offense searching for consistency.
Colorado Needs an Offensive Breakthrough
Colorado enters the matchup coming off a bye week after a 29-7 loss to Texas Tech.
Head coach Deion Sanders will need his team to find answers against Utah’s defense. The Buffaloes have struggled to sustain drives and produce points during their recent losing streak.
Quarterback Isaac Wilson, who previously played at Utah, is expected to start for Colorado, adding an intriguing storyline to the matchup. Wilson and the Buffaloes will need to protect the football and take advantage of scoring opportunities.
Wide receiver Joseph Williams gives Colorado a potential playmaker downfield, but the offense will need a complete performance to keep pace with Utah.
A Major Test in Boulder
Colorado will have home-field advantage, but the challenge is significant. Utah has won eight of the last nine meetings between the programs and arrives with momentum on both sides of the ball.
For the Buffaloes, Saturday is an opportunity to reset their season. For Utah, it is another chance to protect an undefeated record and strengthen its position in the Big 12 race.
