No. 11 Utah Holds Off Colorado’s Late Comeback to Remain Undefeated at 6-0.
No. 11 Utah escaped with a 27-24 victory over Colorado after defending a late-game rally to preserve its undefeated record and extend its winning streak to 12 games. Quarterback Devon Dampier threw three touchdown passes as the Utes improved to 6-0 overall and 3-0 in Big 12 play. Utah built a 13-0 halftime advantage, taking control early while limiting Colorado to just 70 total yards in the opening half. Colorado, which entered the matchup as a 15-point underdog, struggled offensively and committed several costly penalties before finding its rhythm after halftime. The Buffaloes finished with 394 total yards, including 324 in the second half. Former Utah quarterback Isaac Wilson helped lead Colorado's comeback effort. He completed the game with 256 passing yards and two touchdowns, but also threw two interceptions. With 1:21 remaining, Wilson connected with the Buffaloes' offense to cut Utah's advantage to three points. Colorado's attempt to regain possession through an onside kick failed, but Utah's ensuing punt gave the Buffaloes another opportunity.
The closing moments nearly produced a dramatic finish. Wilson completed a pass before attempting a lateral to Quanell Farrakhan Jr., who advanced the ball to Utah's 38-yard line. However, officials ruled the play an illegal forward pass, resulting in a penalty that erased the gain and eliminated Colorado's opportunity to attempt a long field goal.
Utah then stopped Colorado's final passing attempt to secure the three-point victory.
Dampier finished with 278 passing yards and two touchdown connections with Braden Pegan, while also throwing two interceptions. His performance helped the Utes maintain their perfect start despite facing significant pressure in the second half.
Utah head coach Morgan Scalley acknowledged that his team did not deliver a complete performance but was pleased with the result. The victory gives Utah its first 6-0 start since 2015. The Utes have also outscored their opponents 75-3 in the first quarter this season and have recorded a touchdown on their opening offensive possession in every game.
For Colorado, the loss marked its fourth consecutive defeat, dropping the Buffaloes to 2-4 overall and 0-3 in conference play. Head coach Deion Sanders praised Wilson's effort and commitment while emphasizing that the team's struggles cannot be placed on one player. Colorado finished with 10 penalties for 93 yards, continuing an issue that has affected its performance.
What's Next
Utah will return home next Saturday to face No. 20 Houston as it looks to extend its unbeaten run. Colorado will travel to face No. 18 Oklahoma State, hoping to end its four-game losing streak.
