The Colorado Buffaloes achieved a thrilling 14-13 victory over the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets on Thursday night in Atlanta, showcasing a dramatic comeback that culminated in a crucial blocked field goal as time ran out. Quarterback Julian Lewis delivered a pivotal 20-yard touchdown pass to Charlie Williams with just 37 seconds remaining, putting Colorado ahead by a single point.
Following the touchdown, Georgia Tech mounted a determined drive, with quarterback Alberto Mendoza leading the team into field goal range. As the tension mounted, kicker Aidan Birr prepared for a 45-yard attempt that could have secured the win for the Yellow Jackets. However, Colorado's defense rose to the occasion, blocking the kick and sealing the victory for the Buffaloes.
Coach Deion Sanders celebrated his first win in Atlanta as a head coach, having previously faced challenges in the Peach State during his tenure at Jackson State. This victory also marked a significant milestone for Colorado, as it was their first win against an Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) opponent since the 1957 Orange Bowl. Furthermore, it was the Buffaloes' first road win since a victory over Texas Tech in Lubbock back in 2024.
Lewis finished the game with 124 passing yards and a touchdown, although he faced difficulties throughout the night until the crucial final drive. The Buffaloes' running game showed marked improvement under offensive coordinator Brennan Marion's Go-Go scheme, contributing to a total of 183 rushing yards on 48 carries. Colorado's commitment to a balanced offensive strategy proved beneficial, allowing them to remain competitive despite Georgia Tech's early lead.
Mendoza, who made his first college start, faced his own set of challenges, particularly with grip issues due to the humid conditions. The younger brother of last year's Heisman Trophy winner, Fernando Mendoza, struggled to find his rhythm but still managed to complete 17 of 23 passes for 237 yards. However, he was pressured consistently by Colorado's defense, which recorded three sacks throughout the game.
The game began with a scoreless first quarter, but Colorado took an early lead with a touchdown. Georgia Tech quickly responded, with Rahkeem Smith returning the ensuing kickoff 100 yards for a touchdown, leveling the score at 7-7. The Yellow Jackets then took the lead with a 22-yard field goal from Birr, ending the half at 10-7 in their favor.
As the game progressed, both teams struggled to score until the final moments. Birr added another field goal for Georgia Tech with just 1:43 left on the clock, pushing the Yellow Jackets ahead 13-7 and placing Colorado in a position where they needed a touchdown to secure the win. Lewis rose to the occasion, orchestrating an impressive 8-play, 75-yard drive in just over a minute, culminating in the decisive touchdown pass to Williams.
With this victory, the Colorado Buffaloes will return home to face Weber State next Saturday at 3:30 p.m. ET, aiming to maintain their momentum and continue their successful start to the season.
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