Salt Lake City, UT – Utah continued their winning streak against Colorado in their rivalry series, marking their seventh consecutive victory. Ryan Staub, in his first career start for Colorado, threw for 195 yards and a touchdown, connecting with Travis Hunter for 107 yards and another touchdown on eight receptions.
Despite Colorado’s efforts, they managed 262 yards against Utah’s defense. Utah favored a ground-based strategy in the first half, with Bottari attempting only three passes before halftime, all completed. Their rush-heavy approach amassed 135 yards by halftime, opting for conservative play-calling that proved effective.
The opening drive saw Utah dominating with eight consecutive rushing plays, capped off by Bottari’s 2-yard keeper, propelling them to a 7-0 lead. A pivotal moment came when Connor O’Toole sacked Staub, causing a fumble that Van Fillinger recovered, setting up Utah’s scoring drive.
Colorado found a breakthrough with a trick play in the second quarter, as Jimmy Horn, Jr. connected with Dylan Edwards for a 30-yard score, narrowing Utah’s lead to 10-7. However, Colorado couldn’t bridge the gap further after halftime.
Bottari’s 16-yard pass to Luca Caldarella on 4th down set the stage for his second touchdown run in the third quarter, a 1-yard keeper. Becker’s 31-yard field goal extended Utah’s lead to 23-10 early in the fourth quarter. Despite Colorado’s efforts with Hunter’s 18-yard catch, Utah managed to run the clock down in the final 7:25, denying the Buffaloes a chance to level the score.
Staub acknowledged, “We scored and left enough time, but they executed that last drive really well,” reflecting on Utah’s ability to control the ball in the game’s closing moments.
In a game where Utah maintained their dominance over Colorado. Next up is bowl game for the Utes as they watch the PAC-12 Championships from the outside. The Buffs will start looking at the next class in the Transfer Porter that opens Dec 4th.
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