Devon Dampier threw three touchdown passes to lead No. 11 Utah to a 27-24 victory over Colorado on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026, at Folsom Field. The win improved the Utes to a perfect 6-0 on the season and extended their Big 12 Conference record to 3-0, narrowly overcoming a late rally by the Buffaloes in Boulder.
Dampier Leads Early Offensive Surge
The Utes established an early lead in the first half through the arm of Dampier. He connected with Hunter Andrews for an 8-yard touchdown pass on the opening drive, which covered 75 yards in 12 plays. Following that score, Utah kicker Dillon Curtis added two field goals, a 27-yard strike in the second quarter and a 29-yard field goal just before halftime, to build a 13-0 lead.
Colorado Mounts Third Quarter Rally
Colorado responded with significant momentum in the third quarter, scoring 17 unanswered points to take a 17-13 lead. The Buffaloes' rally began with a 68-yard touchdown pass from Isaac Wilson to JaQuail Smith. This was followed by an 18-yard touchdown run by DeKalon Taylor and a 32-yard field goal by Elliott Arnold, bringing the home crowd to a crescendo.
Utah Reclaims Lead in Fourth Quarter
Utah reclaimed the lead in the final period as Dampier continued his efficient performance. He completed a 16-yard touchdown pass to Braden Pegan to make it 20-17, and later added a 6-yard touchdown pass to Pegan with 1:26 remaining in the game. This scoring sequence pushed Utah's total to 27 and gave them a four-point cushion heading into the final minutes.
Late Buffaloes Surge Falls Short
Colorado attempted a final comeback in the closing moments of the game. With 1:21 left on the clock, Isaac Wilson threw a 2-yard touchdown pass to DeAndre Moore Jr., which brought the Buffaloes within three points at 27-24. Despite the score, Utah was able to withstand the pressure until the game concluded at 12:13 AM.
Individual Statistical Breakdown
Dampier finished the game with 278 passing yards on 24 of 41 attempts, including three touchdowns and two interceptions. He also recorded negative rushing yardage of -8 yards on eight carries. His primary targets included Braden Pegan, who caught two touchdown passes for 86 yards, and Creed Whittemore, who recorded 88 yards on three receptions.
Colorado Offensive Performance
The Colorado offense was led by Isaac Wilson, who completed 256 passing yards. Key receiving contributors for the Buffaloes included JaQuail Smith, who recorded 73 yards, and DeAndre Moore Jr., who finished with 70 yards. Colorado's rushing attack was led by Wayshawn Parker, who accumulated 98 yards on 23 carries.
Game Atmosphere and Conditions
The atmosphere at Folsom Field was significant for the matchup, with an official attendance of 52,489 spectators. The game lasted a total duration of 3 hours, 43 minutes, and was played in clear weather conditions with temperatures around 59 degrees and winds from the west at 12 mph.
