After getting to enjoy their bye in Week 6, Deion Sanders and the Colorado Buffaloes return to the field in Week 7 for a matchup against the No. 18 Kansas State Wildcats that could have major implications in both the Big 12 title race and their College Football Playoff hopes.
Ever since their blowout loss to Nebraska, the Buffaloes have been red hot, averaging 38 points per game and defeating UCF by 27 points. But Kansas State represent a brand new challenge for them, as they are the first ranked team that they have faced. A win at Folsom Field over the Wildcats would go a long way in showing that they’re legit.
But what’s the confidence level in Colorado right now? For one former college football star, the sky is the limit for them.
Appearing on Get Up, former All-ACC quarterback E.J. Manuel was asked if Coach Prime and Colorado could make the College Football Playoff. The ex-Florida State superstar declared “Hell yeah they can” because of the level of competition they’re facing in their current conference.
“Hell yeah they can, Greeny,” Manuel told ESPN’s Mike Greenberg. “The Big 12 is wide open. It’s Colorado, it’s Iowa State, it’s Kansas State. They’re about to play BYU, (who are) still sitting as an undefeated team. But I’m not going to count out Colorado anytime that Shedeur Sanders, their quarterback, is able to stand upright. I believe when they lost to Nebraska earlier in the season, they got out-physical’d up front. But their offensive line got better. Obviously with (CB/WR) Travis Hunter, (WR LaJohntay) Wester, all these great receivers that they have there for Colorado, I like their chances to not only make the Playoff but get their as an automatic qualifier and winning the Big 12.”
Can Deion Sanders and Colorado make the College Football Playoff? 👀@EJManuel3 says, “Hell yeah they can!” 🍿 pic.twitter.com/tQZXfn2mWX
— Get Up (@GetUpESPN) October 11, 2024
The Colorado Buffaloes control their own destiny right now. They’re fortunate-enough to not have to face either BYU or Iowa State – the two remaining undefeated teams in the conference and favorites to win the Big 12 title – but they do still have to play the likes of Utah and Texas Tech before they can even think about the postseason.
Can Colorado break through and reach the College Football Playoff?
Related: Travis Hunter Does The Heisman Pose After Epic Interception