‘Resilient’ Buffaloes win in OT after Hail Mary

Sep 22, 2024 at 6:04 AM

Hail Mary Heroics: Colorado's Stunning Comeback Stuns Baylor

In a thrilling college football showdown, the Colorado Buffaloes pulled off a remarkable comeback against the Baylor Bears, capping off the victory with a last-second Hail Mary touchdown that sent Folsom Field into a frenzy. The game was a testament to the resilience and playmaking abilities of Colorado's young stars, led by quarterback Shedeur Sanders and wide receiver Travis Hunter.

A Dramatic Finish for the Ages

Shedeur Sanders' Heroic Heave

With the game tied at 31-31 and the clock winding down, Colorado faced a daunting task: score a touchdown on a Hail Mary pass to force overtime. Quarterback Shedeur Sanders, son of head coach Deion Sanders, knew he had to make a play. Lining up at the Baylor 49-yard line, Sanders unleashed a prayer of a pass, trusting his talented receiving corps to make a play. The ball found its way into the hands of LaJohntay Wester, a diminutive but determined wide receiver, who dove into the end zone to complete the improbable touchdown. The Buffaloes had erased a three-point deficit in the final seconds, setting the stage for an overtime thriller.

Travis Hunter's Defensive Heroics

While Shedeur Sanders' arm provided the offensive fireworks, it was the defensive prowess of Travis Hunter that sealed the victory for Colorado. With the game tied in overtime, Baylor's Dominic Richardson appeared to have a clear path to the end zone for the game-winning score. But Hunter, the Buffaloes' do-it-all star, had other plans. He knocked the ball free from Richardson's grasp, and the ball scooted out of the end zone, denying the Bears the touchdown. Officials reviewed the play, confirming that the ball was out before Richardson crossed the goal line, preserving Colorado's lead.

A Resilient Comeback

The Buffaloes' victory was not without its challenges. They had to overcome three separate deficits throughout the game, including a 100-yard kickoff return touchdown by Baylor. But Colorado's young squad, led by the Sanders duo, refused to be deterred. Shedeur Sanders finished the game with 341 passing yards and three touchdowns, including the game-tying Hail Mary and the overtime-clinching score. Travis Hunter continued to solidify his Heisman Trophy candidacy, racking up 130 receiving yards and making the game-saving play on defense.

Deion Sanders' Emotional Reaction

The victory was a significant milestone for Colorado's second-year head coach, Deion Sanders. The former NFL superstar praised his team's resilience and the support of the passionate Buffaloes fan base. However, he expressed regret over the field storming, as it prevented him from shaking hands with Baylor's coach, Dave Aranda. Deion Sanders acknowledged the growth of his team, particularly the much-maligned offensive line, which helped the Buffaloes record three rushing touchdowns on the night.

A Thrilling Big 12 Debut

Colorado's victory over Baylor marked the Buffaloes' first Big 12 win since rejoining the conference. The game was a testament to the program's progress under Deion Sanders' leadership and the emergence of a new generation of stars, led by Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter. The dramatic finish at Folsom Field will undoubtedly be etched in the memories of Colorado fans, who witnessed a truly unforgettable college football spectacle.