Colorado vs. Baylor: Big 12 Conference Opener at Folsom Field

Deion Sanders and the Colorado Buffaloes are poised to kick off a new chapter in their football program as they host Baylor at Folsom Field on Saturday for their conference opener in the Big 12. The Buffaloes, currently holding a 2-1 record, are returning to the Big 12 after 13 seasons in the Pac-12. They aim to continue their momentum following a 28-9 victory over Colorado State in Week 3.

Quarterback Shedeur Sanders and two-way star Travis Hunter were instrumental in their recent triumph. Meanwhile, Baylor enters the game riding high from a significant 31-3 win against Air Force last week. The Bears, noted for their formidable passing defense, aspire to regain their standing with a bowl appearance in 2024 after concluding last season with a 3-9 record.

The game, scheduled to commence at 8 p.m. ET in Boulder, positions the Buffaloes as a slight 2-point favorite, according to SportsLine consensus odds, with an over/under of 51.5 points. Expert analysis and betting considerations are being closely monitored by NFL and college football analyst Matt Kaylor, whose impressive track record in sports betting includes a 107-45-2 record from the previous year.

Travis Hunter, a standout cornerback and wide receiver, remains a pivotal player for Colorado, boasting 30 catches for 342 yards and five touchdowns on offense, along with 11 tackles, two pass break-ups, and an interception on defense this season. Hunter’s dual capabilities present a unique challenge for Baylor.

Baylor’s defense, leading the nation in allowing just 75.7 passing yards per game, will be pivotal against Colorado’s aggressive passing strategy. Although the defense’s strong statistics partly stem from facing Air Force, they remain the toughest defense the Buffaloes have encountered this season.

Offensively, Baylor relies on a robust ground game, led by running backs Dominic Richardson and Qualan Jones, who have collectively amassed almost 300 rushing yards this season. The weather forecast suggests a potential advantage for Baylor’s running game in rainy conditions on game night.

As both teams prepare for Saturday’s showdown, Kaylor highlights a crucial X-factor in the matchup, advising caution on the point total and spread. The altitude in Colorado may also play a significant role in the outcome, particularly in the latter stages of the game.

The Buffaloes and the Bears both aim to kickstart their Big 12 journey with a significant win in Boulder, promising an exciting clash for football enthusiasts and sports bettors alike.