The Colorado Buffaloes will host the unbeaten No. 11 Utah Utes this Saturday at Folsom Field for a Family Weekend game, according to a October 16 report. The matchup features several key players and significant statistical contrasts between the two programs.
Colorado quarterback Isaac Wilson will start against his former team, having led Utah with 1,510 passing yards two years ago. While Utah head coach Morgan Scalley noted that Wilson has arm talent, he downplayed any advantage from Wilson's knowledge of Utah's terminology. The Buffs' defense will rely on several players, including defensive lineman Santana Hopper, who is tied for the Big 12 lead with 9.5 tackles for loss. Edge defender Toby Anene also enters the game with 5.5 tackles for loss and three sacks.
The Utah Utes enter the game with a 5-0 record and lead the Big 12 in scoring with 42.8 points per game. Running back Wayshawn Parker has recorded 499 yards and 11 total touchdowns this season. Utah's offense also ranks second in the league for rushing with 238.0 yards per game. Quarterback Devon Dampier has completed 94 of 131 passes for 1,134 yards and 12 touchdowns, while backup Byrd Ficklin has recorded 150 rushing yards and two touchdown passes.
Defensive matchups will be critical, as Colorado's offense ranks last in the Big 12 in scoring with 18.6 points per game. Conversely, Utah's defense has allowed 13 points per game and leads the conference in pass efficiency defense. Utah's leading tackler, linebacker Trey Reynolds, has recorded 32 stops, three tackles for loss, and an interception.
Utah leads the series 36-33-3 and has won eight of the past 10 meetings, including a 53-7 victory last season in Salt Lake City. Colorado's most recent win in the series occurred in 2024. The game is scheduled for 8:15 p.m. MT on ESPN.
