BOULDER, Colo. — In a thrilling matchup, No. 11 Utah narrowly defeated Colorado 27-24 early Sunday morning, surviving a late rally from the Buffaloes and a desperate Hail Mary attempt as time expired. Devon Dampier played a decisive role, throwing three touchdown passes for Utah.
The Utes, entering the game as 15-point favorites, dominated the first half, leading 13-0 at halftime. In stark contrast, Colorado struggled offensively, accumulating only 70 total yards compared to 82 yards in penalties before the break.
However, the Buffaloes, led by former Utah quarterback Isaac Wilson, made a significant comeback in the second half. Wilson completed 256 yards and two touchdowns, helping cut Utah’s lead to just three points with 1:21 remaining in the game. Unfortunately for Colorado, Utah recovered the onside kick that followed, though they were forced to punt shortly thereafter, setting up a dramatic final drive for the Buffaloes.
As time dwindled, Wilson connected with Quannell Farrakhan Jr., who sprinted to the Utah 38, only for the play to be ruled a forward lateral upon review, pushing Colorado back. Ultimately, the Utes’ defense held firm, securing their sixth consecutive win to remain unbeaten at 6-0 and 3-0 in the Big 12.
Utah’s victory extends their winning streak to 12 games, the longest in the Football Bowl Subdivision after top-ranked teams such as No. 2 Notre Dame and No. 5 Indiana suffered losses Saturday. Dampier finished the game with 278 passing yards and threw two touchdown passes to Braden Pegan, along with two interceptions.
Colorado, now 2-4 overall and 0-3 in conference play, has lost four straight games. Coach Deion Sanders has expressed frustration with his team’s discipline, as Colorado committed a total of 10 penalties for 93 yards during the game.
Looking ahead, Utah will host No. 20 Houston next Saturday, while Colorado prepares to face No. 18 Oklahoma State on the same day.
