Instructions, playtime and television

The Colorado Buffaloes have become one of the most intriguing teams in college football since athletic director Rick George hired Deion Sanders as head coach. Under Coach Prime’s spotlight, the Buffaloes have consistently drawn millions of viewers each week, and that trend continues as they prepare to face the BYU Cougars in the Alamo Bowl. This primetime matchup gives CU a national stage with no other games competing for attention in the slot.

Throughout the season, Colorado averaged 3.86 million viewers per game, peaking at 6.22 million for the game against Kansas. The appeal comes not only from the team’s performance – although the impressive 9-3 record speaks volumes – but also from the magnetic presence of Coach Prime. Whether fans tune in to cheer on CU or hope to see them stumble, interest remains constant. Beyond Sanders’ personality, the Buffs’ success can be attributed to outstanding performances from key players such as Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter and Johnny Unitas Golden Arm winner Shedeur Sanders. Defensive power BJ Green also proved to be a crucial asset and earned the title of Big 12 Defensive Newcomer of the Year. Together, these players form the foundation of a team that has exceeded expectations and brought excitement back to Boulder.

While Hunter and Sanders get most of the attention, other players have also made significant contributions. CamRon Silmon-Craig, CU’s leading tackler with 87 tackles and 11.5 tackles for loss, was a crucial figure on defense. His journey from Jackson State to Colorado reflects the larger narrative of transformation within the program. Another key player, wide receiver LaJohntay Wester, transferred from Florida Atlantic University and quickly emerged as one of the team’s best offensive weapons. Wester finished the season with 82 receptions and 10 touchdowns, surpassing only Hunter. His commitment extended beyond the field – reclaiming his No. 1 jersey after improving his academic performance demonstrated his commitment to excellence both on and off the field.

Shilo Sanders, another permanent member of the Buffaloes, will make his final appearance alongside his brother Shedeur. Known for his hard-hitting style and leadership in the secondary, Shilo has given the CU defense a physical edge. This game marks not only the end of their college careers, but also the final chapter of Deion Sanders coaching his sons at the college level. The sight of Coach Prime giving his final words of encouragement to his sons on the sideline will be an emotional highlight of the game.

BYU, on the other hand, poses a formidable challenge. The Cougars began their season with an impressive 9-0 run, including a decisive win over SMU, a College Football Playoff team. Despite late-season losses to Kansas and Arizona State, BYU proved to be one of the Big 12’s best teams. Their defense, which allowed just 20.1 points per game, led the conference and excelled at forcing turnovers 20 of 12 interceptions were scored by different players. This opportunistic defense could spell trouble for a CU offense that has struggled to establish a consistent running game.

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While BYU’s offense doesn’t have Colorado’s star power, their cohesive game and explosive special teams make them a dangerous opponent. Return specialists like Keelan Marion and Talan Alfrey have demonstrated game-changing abilities, leading the nation with three kick return touchdowns.

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For Colorado, the Alamo Bowl represents a chance to earn its first bowl victory in two decades, a milestone that would underscore the program’s resurgence. With rumors swirling that Deion Sanders may be eyeing a coaching job in the NFL, this game could mark the conclusion of his tenure in Boulder. A win would cement his legacy and transform CU from a struggling program into one of college football’s rising powers. As the Buffaloes take the field Saturday night, the nation will be watching intently, eager to witness the next chapter of Coach Prime’s extraordinary journey.

Alamo Bowl – San Antonio, Texas

No. 23 Colorado vs. No. 17 BYU

Kickoff: 7:30 p.m. ET

TV: ABC