Colorado vs. North Dakota State final score, results: Travis Hunter shines as Buffaloes survive scare from Bison
Plenty of questions surrounded Colorado entering Thursday’s season-opener against North Dakota State, but one thing was clear: If the Buffaloes are going to win games this season, they’re going to have to do it with their offense.
That’s exactly what they did in a 31-26 win against the Bison.
North Dakota State and Colorado traded blows in the first half, with Shedeur Sanders throwing for more than 250 yards through the first two quarters. But the mighty Bison carving up the Buffaloes’ defense for a halftime lead.
It looked like it might not be Colorado’s night when a pass from Sanders deflected off of a player’s calf and into the arms of a North Dakota State defender for an interception early in the third quarter. The Buffaloes’ defense, though, managed a quick stop, setting up the offense to take a lead that would hold up the rest of the way.
The Bison made it interesting down the stretch, cutting an 11-point deficit to five and giving themselves a chance in the final minute of play. But Cam Miller’s Hail Mary pass was caught four yards short of the end zone.
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Miller had a terrific night, throwing for 277 yards and rushing for 81 yards along with two touchdowns, but it was Colorado’s stars who put up the gaudy numbers. Sanders threw for 445 yards and four touchdowns, while Travis Hunter posted 132 yards and three touchdowns — the latter of which came on an unbelievable catch.
Sanders and Hunter weren’t alone, as Jimmy Horn Jr. exploded for 198 yards and a touchdown with the help of a massive first half.
Colorado’s defense likely needs to make adjustments for the program to have the season it’s looking for, but it’s clear the Buffaloes’ offense is going to be must-see TV again when Deion Sanders and co. travel to Lincoln to face Nebraska in Week 2.
The Sporting News tracked live scoring updates and highlights from Colorado’s Week 1 matchup with North Dakota State. Check out all of the moments you might have missed below.
