The Cougars face a physical Buffalo defensive front but it has had gaps at times in 2024. Colorado surrenders 22 points per game, but BYU will need Jake Retzlaff and Co. to get more than that. A big key for the Cougars will be getting LJ Martin and the run game going to take some time off the clock, but even with some shuffling on the offensive line BYU is capable of making that happen.

Edge: BYU

BYU defense vs. Colorado offense

The Cougars have generally done pretty well against teams that like to pass, but the challenge elevates considerably when going up against a top quarterback like Shedeur Sanders and his talented receivers. BYU can’t afford to have too many big breakdowns but the Buffaloes will still score some points. The Cougars will need to get some turnovers to help even things out.

Edge: Colorado

Coaching

BYU head coach Kalani Sitake is a coaching veteran who has been to a lot of bowl games and had a decent amount of success. Colorado head coach Deion Sanders is the former superstar player who draws a lot of attention but also has shown he can have team put together a solid season in the Big 12. Both still have more to prove at this level, though.

Edge: Even

Intangibles

BYU is officially the visiting team but don’t be surprised if the Cougar fans in Texas show up in droves. Playing in the Alamodome negates some of the impact of weather, although the condition of the turf can be a factor. Both teams will be bolstered by forcing turnovers, something BYU has been good at during 2024.

Edge: BYU

Key Matchup: BYU wide receivers vs. Colorado secondary

This is a fascinating matchup as the Cougar group of Chase Roberts, Keelan Marion, Jojo Phillips, Parker Kingston and Darius Lassiter (for the second half, due to the ejection at the end of the Houston game) may be the biggest strength of the BYU offense. But Colorado has some good defensive backs, led by Heisman Trophy-winner Travis Hunter. The Cougars will need their guys to win some key one-on-one matchups to keep the BYU offense rolling.

Edge: Even

Prediction

Colorado will start fast and take the early lead, but BYU will score just enough to stay within striking distance at halftime. The Cougars will get the run game going after the break, controlling time of possession and moving in front. A big pass from Shedeur Sanders to Travis Hunter will put the Buffaloes on top in the fourth quarter, but Retzlaff will lead BYU to a late score and the Cougars defense will make the play it needs to for BYU to close out the win.

BYU 29, Colorado 26