The upcoming matchup between the Colorado Buffaloes and UCF Knights is a significant non-conference showdown in Week 5 of the 2024 college football season. UCF enters the game undefeated, with an offense that is firing on all cylinders. Led by quarterback KJ Jefferson and running back RJ Harvey, the Knights average 375.7 rushing yards per game, ranking first in the nation. Their ground game has been unstoppable, with Harvey already accumulating 448 rushing yards and eight touchdowns. UCF’s ability to control the game on the ground will be key against Colorado’s struggling run defense, which ranks near the bottom of the FBS, allowing 200+ yards per game. Colorado comes into this game following a miraculous comeback win against Baylor. Quarterback Shedeur Sanders has been a bright spot for the Buffaloes, completing nearly 68% of his passes for 1,340 yards and 11 touchdowns.

Wide receiver Travis Hunter has been his go-to target, racking up 472 receiving yards. However, Colorado’s lack of a consistent rushing attack (68.8 yards per game) makes them one-dimensional, which could be an issue against a UCF defense that allows only 17 points per game. For Colorado to stay competitive, they will need a near-flawless performance from Sanders and his receivers. Defensively, they will be tasked with slowing down UCF’s potent rushing attack, which has been the backbone of their success this season. If Colorado can limit UCF’s big plays and force them into passing situations, they may be able to keep the game within reach.