BYU Faces Must-Win Game Against Colorado in Boulder

BOULDER, Colo. — The BYU Cougars face a critical test Tuesday night as they take on the Colorado Buffaloes in a must-win game to keep their March Madness hopes alive. With a 2-4 record in conference play, BYU is seeking its first road victory of the season, while Colorado, winless in Big 12 play at 0-6, looks to break its losing streak.

The Cougars, led by first-year head coach Kevin Young, have struggled in close games this season, going 0-4 in overtime and games decided by five points or fewer. Despite their road woes, BYU has dominated in victories, with all wins coming by double digits. Colorado, on the other hand, has been competitive in its losses, with all six defeats by 10 points or fewer.

KenPom, a leading college basketball analytics platform, gives BYU a 56% chance to win, predicting a narrow 73-71 victory. ESPN’s Basketball Power Index (BPI) is more optimistic, projecting a 68% chance for the Cougars to secure their first road win.

BYU’s defense, allowing just 67.0 points per game, could be the key to victory. Colorado’s offense, averaging 73.8 points per game, has struggled with consistency, shooting 46% from the field and 34% from beyond the arc. The Buffaloes’ defense has also been inconsistent, making the Under 145.0 a popular betting pick for the game.

“Winning close games is something we need to figure out,” said Casey Lundquist, publisher of Cougs Daily. “This game could be the turning point for BYU’s season.”

The game tips off at 11:00 PM ET at the CU Events Center in Boulder and will be broadcast on ESPNU.