Colorado head coach Deion Sanders announced Tuesday that junior quarterback Isaac Wilson will start for a second straight game when the Buffaloes host No. 11 Utah on Saturday at 8:15 p.m. on ESPN. The decision follows a period of discussion regarding the team's offensive performance and Wilson's recent struggles.
According to a October 13 report, Sanders noted that he maintains a strong relationship with Wilson, characterized by the ability to joke around. Sanders said that Wilson does not take such comments to heart and does not experience a pity party after difficult performances. This relationship was highlighted following a 29-7 loss to No. 12 Texas Tech on Oct. 3, 2026, in which Wilson threw three interceptions. Following that game, Wilson stated he needs to stop trying to do too much and focus on delivering the ball to playmakers.
The upcoming game presents a significant challenge for the Buffs, as Utah enters the matchup with a 5-0 record and a strong statistical profile. Sanders described the Utes as potentially the best team the Buffaloes will face this season, noting their strength in both offense and defense. The matchup is particularly notable because Wilson is a Utah native who played the first two seasons of his college career with the Utes, including starts in 2024.
The Colorado offense, led by first-year coordinator Brennan Marion, has struggled this season, averaging 18.6 points per game, which is the lowest in the Big 12. This compares to the 25.4 points per game averaged by the conference's second-worst offense. Sanders noted that while he hired Marion for his history of averaging over 30 points per game, the team's current offensive output needs to increase. He stated the team aims to reduce pass attempts from the 40-plus range seen in recent games to between 17 and 24 attempts, while relying more heavily on the run game.
The Buffaloes will host the Utah Utes at Folsom Field this Saturday, Oct. 18, 2026.
