Utah vs Colorado Picks and Prediction – 11/16/2024

The Utah Utes (4-5) will face the 20th-ranked Colorado Buffaloes (7-2) at Folsom Field this Saturday. Utah, coming off a close 22-21 loss to BYU, is looking to rebound, while Colorado continues its strong season after a 41-27 victory over Texas Tech. Dominate the college scene with our College Football picks.

Utah’s offense has struggled this season, with quarterback Isaac Wilson throwing for 171.4 yards per game, eight touchdowns, and eight interceptions. Running back Micah Bernard has added some balance with 147 rushing yards and three touchdowns, though the Utes rank only 141st nationally in rushing yards per game at 150.4. Dorian Singer has been a consistent target, with 616 receiving yards, though Utah’s passing game ranks 136th with an average of 212.4 yards. As a unit, Utah averages 362.9 yards per game, putting them at 152nd nationally, and they’ve only managed 203 total points this season.

On the defensive side, the Utes have been more effective, allowing only 154 points across the season and ranking 61st in points allowed. The Utes have proven to be tough on the field, but with recent narrow losses, they’ll need to find a way to limit Colorado’s passing attack. While Utah’s defense ranks respectably, containing Colorado’s prolific quarterback, Shedeur Sanders, and his 320.2 yards per game will be the biggest test.

Colorado’s offense is driven by Sanders, who has thrown for 24 touchdowns against only six interceptions, establishing the Buffaloes as one of the top passing teams in the country, ranking 10th with 320.2 passing yards per game. Running back Isaiah Augustave has been less of a focal point with only 303 rushing yards, reflecting Colorado’s lower rushing yards per game at 78.3, ranked 268th nationally. However, Travis Hunter’s nine touchdowns and 856 receiving yards have been crucial for Colorado, keeping them explosive through the air and placing them at 92nd overall in total yards.

Defensively, Colorado has room for improvement, allowing 203 points this season, placing them 116th in points allowed. The Buffaloes will need to strengthen defensive efforts to contain Utah's offense, even with the Utes' struggles. However, given the recent momentum from the win over Texas Tech, Colorado’s defense will aim to disrupt Utah’s passing and force turnovers to maintain control of the game. 

Despite Utah’s defensive abilities, Colorado’s high-powered passing attack led by Sanders is likely to overpower the Utes. Look for Sanders and Hunter to exploit Utah’s secondary, while Colorado’s defense limits Utah’s already struggling offense. Final Score Prediction: Colorado Buffaloes win 31-21.