UPDATE: The Colorado Buffaloes faced a staggering defeat against the Arizona Wildcats, losing 52-17 at Folsom Field on November 1, 2025. In a game marred by penalties, the Buffs were hit with a season-high 14 penalties for 110 yards, significantly impacting their performance.
This loss marks a troubling trend for the Buffs, who entered the game as one of the least-penalized teams in the Big 12. They more than doubled their previous season high of six penalties, a statistic that left head coach Deion Sanders bewildered. “We’ve been doing good. Today just horrible,” he stated, emphasizing the team’s lack of discipline.
Key moments in the game were overshadowed by penalties. In the second quarter, trailing 24-7, a potential 75-yard touchdown from quarterback Kaidon Salter to receiver Sincere Brown was nullified due to two penalties. Instead of a touchdown, the Buffs faced a daunting first-and-25 from their own 10-yard line.
Moreover, a crucial interception by Buffs’ defender Ivan Yates was wiped out when teammate Arden Walker was penalized for roughing the passer, further compounding the team’s woes. “It don’t make sense,” added Sanders, reflecting on the uncharacteristic performance.
Despite the disappointing outcome, there was a personal highlight for Coach Prime. His son, former CU quarterback and current Cleveland Browns rookie Shedeur Sanders, was in attendance, marking their first meeting since the season began. Coach Sanders expressed his joy in reuniting with his son amid the game’s chaos, stating, “I haven’t seen my son in a long time, so that was quite emotional for me.”
Arizona dominated the ground game, rushing for 204 yards, becoming the sixth team to exceed 200 rushing yards against the Buffs this season. Buffs running back Dallan Hayden managed to top 1,000 career rushing yards during the game, but the team’s overall performance left much to be desired.
In a silver lining, kicker Alejandro Mata set a new CU record with 104 consecutive extra points, now ranking third in program history for made extra points. He also moved into 11th place on CU’s all-time scoring list with 187 points, surpassing the legendary Byron White.
As the Buffs look to regroup following this defeat, the focus will shift to their next matchup. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if the team can address their penalty issues and regain their competitive edge.
Stay tuned for further updates as this season unfolds.
