The Colorado Buffaloes kicked off their 2026-27 season with a stunning 14-13 victory over the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets on Thursday night. This matchup marked a significant moment for the Buffaloes as they prepare for their upcoming game against Northwestern, a team that has been a formidable opponent in recent years.
Under the leadership of Coach Deion Sanders, the Buffaloes entered this season with less fanfare compared to previous years, particularly after the departure of star players like Shedeur Sanders, Shilo Sanders, and Travis Hunter to the NFL. This shift in roster dynamics positioned Colorado as the underdog against Georgia Tech, who were favored by 6.5 points going into the game.
Despite the odds, Colorado displayed a gritty performance, demonstrating their ability to win in challenging circumstances. The Buffaloes' defense was particularly impressive, effectively neutralizing Georgia Tech's running game, which featured Justice Haynes, a highly touted transfer from Alabama and Michigan. Haynes, who had previously shown great promise, was limited to just 64 yards on 19 carries, averaging only 3.4 yards per attempt, and he failed to make an impact in the passing game.
On the other hand, Georgia Tech's quarterback, Alberto Mendoza, had a solid outing, completing 17 of 23 passes for 237 yards. However, the Buffaloes' defense remained resilient, forcing a critical turnover and blocking a potential game-winning field goal attempt that sealed their victory and ignited celebrations at Bobby Dodd Stadium.
Offensively, Colorado found success on the ground, with their running backs Damian Henderson, Micah Welch, and JaQuail Smith combining for 165 rushing yards and a touchdown on 35 carries. Each of these players averaged over four yards per carry, showcasing the depth and effectiveness of the Buffaloes' rushing attack. Quarterback Julian Lewis had a mixed performance, completing 14 of 27 passes for 124 yards and one touchdown, but he managed to avoid turnovers, which proved crucial in this tightly contested game.
As the Buffaloes look ahead to their matchup against Northwestern on September 19, they will need to build on this victory. The upcoming game presents a clash of styles, with Northwestern boasting a strong passing game led by Caleb Komolafe, while Colorado will rely on their defense and running game to dictate the pace. Early indications suggest that Northwestern may enter the game as slight favorites, especially if they can secure a win against South Dakota State before their bye week.
This victory over Georgia Tech not only boosts Colorado's confidence but also sets the stage for an exciting non-conference battle against the Wildcats. With both teams looking to establish themselves early in the season, fans can anticipate a competitive matchup that highlights the strengths and strategies of each program.
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