Two-way star Travis Hunter caught two of Shedeur Sanders’ four touchdown passes and also made an interception as Colorado won 28-9 over Colorado State on Saturday night.
Sanders completed 36 of 49 passes for 310 yards in the first Rocky Mountain Showdown held in Fort Collins since 1996. Sanders threw two touchdown passes to LaJohntay Wester and connected with Hunter 13 times for 100 yards.
Hunter, who is a Heisman Trophy contender, had a fantastic game. “He can be even better,” Sanders said. “There’s no ceiling.”
This win marked Colorado’s seventh straight victory over Colorado State. The Rams will have to wait until 2029 to try to end the losing streak, as the in-state rivalry is not on the schedule again until then.
“Great. Darn. Victory,” Colorado coach Deion Sanders said. “We just wanted it to be decisive.”
After a slow start following a 28-10 loss at Nebraska the previous week, Colorado’s offense found its rhythm. Sanders led the Buffaloes to 28 unanswered points after trailing 3-0 midway through the second quarter.
Sanders was well-protected by the offensive line, which has been searching for consistency. He was sacked only once, in the fourth quarter when the game was already secure.
To show his appreciation, Sanders brought the offensive line into the interview room, and they stood behind him.
“It meant everything to us to go out there and just prove the world wrong and prove each other right,” offensive lineman Tyler Brown said.
The Buffaloes, dressed in their new all-white uniforms, had a strong defensive performance as well, forcing four turnovers. Hunter and defensive back Preston Hodge both had interceptions, while LaVonta Bentley and B.J. Green recovered fumbles.
During his interception, Hunter and some teammates received an unsportsmanlike penalty when they spun the football and gathered around it as if it were a campfire, pretending to warm their hands.
