The No. 23 Colorado Buffaloes will face off against the No. 17 BYU Cougars in the Valero Alamo Bowl, with both teams having designs on playing in the Big 12 championship game last month but stumbling down the stretch. The stakes are significant, as a win for either team would earn them national credibility and a boost to their programs.
Colorado is led by Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter and future NFL first-round draft pick Shedeur Sanders, who have an impressive offense that has seen a steady increase in odds favoring the Buffs. BYU, on the other hand, boasts a formidable defense, particularly against the pass, with 20 combined interceptions tops in the country.
“We are very hungry to win it,” said BYU star receiver and All-American kick returner Keelan Marion. “They got some great guys over there — Travis, Shedeur, Shilo (Sanders). We even got some other guys who are under the radar over there who are good.”
BYU coach Kalani Sitake’s team is looking to prove a point after their No. 17 ranking and has developed a reputation for being outstanding in bowl games during his nine-year tenure. However, this is arguably the biggest postseason challenge he faces.
“We will see if it’s good enough to beat them,” Sitake said. “We’re focusing on being razor-sharp prepared and ready.”
Deion Sanders’ Colorado team is more balanced offensively, but relies heavily on Shedeur Sanders’ ability to spread the ball around. The Buffs are struggling in rushing yards per game, while BYU excels at pass efficiency defense.
“The last two weeks of practice has been as good as we have had on defense,” said BYU defensive coordinator Jay Hill. “I’m excited about that.”
With both teams showing excitement and confidence, this match-up promises to be one of the most exciting games in college football this month.
Source: https://www.deseret.com/sports/2024/12/23/can-byu-football-beat-colorado-in-alamo-bowl