The upcoming game between the Baylor Bears and Colorado Buffaloes on September 21, 2024, is set to be a critical matchup in the Big 12 Conference. Both teams come into the game with a 2-1 record and are looking to make a statement as they enter the core of their conference schedules. The Colorado Buffaloes, under head coach Deion Sanders, have shown flashes of brilliance, especially in their passing game. Shedeur Sanders, the coach’s son, has been highly effective, throwing for 999 yards and nine touchdowns with a completion rate above 70%. The offense has been potent, particularly when Sanders can connect with standout receiver Travis Hunter, who has 342 yards and five touchdowns on 30 receptions this season. However, Colorado’s offensive line has shown some vulnerabilities, particularly against strong defensive fronts like Nebraska’s, which managed to exploit them in a 28-10 loss.

The Buffaloes have averaged 333 passing yards per game but only 61.3 rushing yards, making them somewhat one-dimensional. Defensively, Colorado has allowed 21 points per game, which is not terrible, but there is room for improvement, especially against well-rounded offenses. On the other hand, Baylor comes into this game after a strong defensive showing against Air Force, where they won 31-3. The Bears’ defense has been solid this season, allowing only 9.7 points per game, one of the better marks in the country. Offensively, Baylor relies on a balanced attack led by quarterback Sawyer Robertson, who has completed 72.4% of his passes for 315 yards and a touchdown. The running game, led by Bryson Washington, has also been effective, averaging 167.3 rushing yards per game. For Baylor, the key to victory will be controlling the tempo of the game and limiting turnovers, something they struggled with in their loss to Utah.