Football History

The Colorado Buffaloes football team has a long and storied history, and their helmet design has been a constant throughout their journey. The iconic golden helmet, adorned with the silhouette of their beloved mascot, Ralphie the Buffalo, has become a symbol of the program.

The helmet's color scheme has remained consistent over the years, with gold as the primary color, representing the state's rich mineral resources. This is paired with black, which adds a touch of sophistication and contrast. The "CU" cutout within Ralphie's silhouette is a subtle nod to the university's name and has been a feature of the helmet for decades.

The shade of gold has varied from a straight gloss version to a metallic, goldleaf shell base color. Recent version of the headgear have seen glos and matte black shells with a gold logo, and even gray and white base shells with goldm gray and black "Ralphies" on the side.

While there have been minor variations in the design over time, such as changes in the helmet brand or the addition of decals, the core elements have remained unchanged. The Colorado Buffaloes helmet is a testament to the program's tradition and a symbol of the state's pride.

On October 10, 2009, the #2 Texas Longhorns traveled to Boulder, Colorado, to face the unranked Colorado Buffaloes in a crucial Big 12 Conference matchup. Despite expectations, the game unfolded as a defensive struggle, showcasing the grit and determination of both teams.

Defensive Dominance:

The star of the show was undoubtedly defense. Both units held their opponents to under 20 points, creating a tense and low-scoring affair. Texas, led by the "Wrecking Crew" defense, managed to stifle Colorado's potent running attack, while Colorado's defense forced crucial turnovers from Texas quarterback Colt McCoy.

Late-Game Heroics:

With the score tied at 14 and time winding down, the Longhorns needed a spark. Quarterback Colt McCoy delivered, orchestrating a decisive drive that culminated in a 32-yard field goal by Hunter Lawrence with just 1:55 remaining on the clock. Colorado's final attempt at a comeback fell short, securing a hard-fought 17-14 victory for Texas.

Key Takeaways:

The 2009 Colorado-Texas game was a defensive battle, with both teams showcasing their strength on that side of the ball.
Texas' defense, led by the "Wrecking Crew," was instrumental in securing the victory.
Quarterback Colt McCoy orchestrated a late-game drive to lead Texas to victory.
The win kept Texas' Big 12 championship hopes alive.

Born February 10, 1946, in Midland, Michigan, was the University of Colorado's Safety Dick Anderson.

-College Career

Dick Anderson's collegiate career at Colorado State University laid the foundation for his professional success. Playing defensive back for the Rams, Anderson quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with. His speed, agility, and instincts made him a ball-hawking presence in the secondary. While specific statistics from his college years may be challenging to pinpoint, anecdotal evidence and recollections from teammates and coaches paint a picture of a dedicated and impactful player. He was a key contributor to the Rams' defensive efforts, often tasked with covering the opponent's top receivers. Anderson had the size and athleticism to play multiple positions on the Buff’s defense. At 6’-2” and weighing in at 198 pounds with speed and quickness, he was mainly a safety but often rolled up closer to the line to play what we now call a hybrid linebacker; according to the NFF’s website bio on him, Dick against Oregon in 1967 intercepted three passes, knocked two others down to the turf, made two touchdown-saving tackles, and blocked two men on a teammate’s pick-six. It was performances like that that aided in Anderson becoming an All-America selection at safety. In three years, Dick had 14 interceptions and 123 unassisted tackles; both were school records. Dick Anderson received the great honor of being selected for inclusion into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1993. His performance at the collegiate level garnered attention from professional scouts, setting the stage for his entry into the NFL. Although Colorado State wasn't a traditional football powerhouse, Anderson's brilliance shone through, making him a sought-after prospect.

-Road to the Pro Game

Anderson's path to the professional ranks began with the Miami Dolphins selecting him in the third round of the 1968 NFL Draft. This marked a turning point in his career, as he joined a Dolphins team that was on the rise under the legendary coach Don Shula. The transition from college football to the NFL was significant, but Anderson's talent and work ethic allowed him to adapt quickly. He found a home in the Dolphins' secondary, playing alongside other talented defensive backs and contributing to the team's burgeoning reputation as a defensive juggernaut. He was a key part of the Dolphins' famed "No-Name Defense" that played a crucial role in their Super Bowl victories. His ability to read quarterbacks, cover receivers, and make timely interceptions solidified his place as a cornerstone of the Dolphins’ defense. Anderson's impact was immediate, and he quickly became a fan favorite in Miami.  

-Football Legacy

Dick Anderson's legacy is defined by his integral role in the Miami Dolphins' dominant teams of the early 1970s.

He was a starting safety on the Dolphins teams that won back-to-back Super Bowls (VII and VIII) and were part of the only undefeated season in modern NFL history (1972). His contributions to the "No-Name Defense" were essential to their success. While not always the most statistically celebrated member of the defense, his consistent play, reliability, and understanding of the game made him invaluable. Anderson's legacy extends beyond the Super Bowl rings. He exemplified the hard-nosed, disciplined style of play that characterized the Dolphins teams of that era. He is remembered as a smart, tough, and dependable player who played a vital role in one of the most successful periods in franchise history. His name is often mentioned alongside other Dolphins defensive greats, solidifying his place in the annals of the team's rich history.  

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This game is an instant classic!

The Storyline of Deion Sanders' making his FBS Coaching Debut for the Colorado Buffaloes as they played the TCU Horned Frogs, whose last game had been playing in the national Championship in January.

The 'expert" said Coach Sanders was doing it all wrong. From former Buff's stars leaving in the transfer window, to naming his son the starting QB, and some of the kids he coached since they were 4-years old to starting positions. and White helmets? C'mon Coach Prime!

Well Sander's innovations and culture change had the University of Colorado shock the college football world on September 2, 2023 by outlasting No. 17 TCU 45-42 on the Horned Frogs' home turf in the season opener for both teams.

Quarterback Shedeur Sanders threw for a school record 510 yards and four touchdowns, freshman running back Dylan Edwards scored four times, and four different Buffs had at least 100 yards receiving (another school record) to highlight a potent Colorado offense.
It was a shootout right to the last minute!

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The 2001 Big 12 Championship Game was a thrilling encounter between the #7 Colorado Buffaloes and the #3 Texas Longhorns. In a game marked by offensive fireworks and late-game drama, Colorado emerged victorious, securing their first Big 12 title.

-Date: December 1, 2001

Location: Reliant Stadium, Houston, TX
Final Score: Colorado 39, Texas 37

Key Moments:

Colorado jumped out to an early lead, taking advantage of a Texas fumble to score a quick touchdown.
The Longhorns responded with a dominant second quarter, scoring three unanswered touchdowns to take a 24-14 halftime lead.


The second half saw a back-and-forth battle, with each team trading touchdowns.


With just over a minute remaining and the score tied at 37, Colorado quarterback Bobby Pesavento orchestrated a crucial drive.


Pesavento capped the drive with a 4-yard touchdown run to give Colorado the lead with 28 seconds left.
Texas' desperate attempt to tie the game fell short, sealing Colorado's victory.


Impact:


Colorado's win over Texas was a major upset, solidifying their place as a top team in the nation.
The game marked the culmination of a remarkable turnaround for Colorado, who had finished the previous season with a 3-8 record.


The victory cemented the legacy of Colorado head coach Gary Barnett and quarterback Bobby Pesavento.
The 2001 Colorado-Texas game remains a classic encounter, remembered for its high-scoring action and dramatic finish.


Additional Notes:


The game featured outstanding individual performances, including Colorado wide receiver Jeremy Bloom's 168 receiving yards and Texas quarterback Chris Simms' 393 passing yards.


The attendance at Reliant Stadium was over 72,000, setting a new record for a Big 12 Championship Game.

Travis Hunter’s journey from a groundbreaking Heisman Trophy-winning season to emerging as the most electrifying prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft is a testament to his exceptional talent and versatility. His rare ability to excel as both a cornerback and wide receiver at an elite level has set him apart in modern football.

The Image of Travis Hunter 2024 courtesy of Scott T. via Wikimedia Commons (Creative Commons attribution 2.0.Sponsored Post

Early Life and High School Stardom

Travis Hunter’s football journey began in West Palm Beach, Florida, where his athletic prowess was evident from a young age. His grandmother, Shirley Hunter, recalls a five-year-old Travis throwing perfect spirals left-handed, despite being naturally right-handed. This ambidextrous skill hinted at the extraordinary talent that would later captivate the football world. ​

During his high school career, Hunter emerged as one of the nation’s top recruits, showcasing his abilities on both offense and defense. His performances attracted attention from major college programs, setting the stage for his unconventional college decision.​

College Career and Unconventional Path

In a move that shocked the college football community, Hunter committed to Jackson State University to play under head coach Deion Sanders. This decision highlighted his desire to forge his own path and make a significant impact at an HBCU. ​
thirddownthursdays.com

Following Sanders’ appointment as head coach at the University of Colorado, Hunter transferred to join the Buffaloes. This move to a Power Five conference provided Hunter with a larger platform to showcase his dual-position talents against top-tier competition.​

Historic Heisman Trophy-Winning Season

In the 2024 season, Hunter’s offensive contributions were nothing short of spectacular. He led the Big 12 Conference with 96 receptions, amassing 1,258 yards and 15 touchdowns. His ability to make contested catches and generate yards after the catch made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. ​

On the defensive side, Hunter’s impact was equally profound. He recorded 35 tackles, 11 pass breakups, and four interceptions, tying for fifth nationally in passes defended. His instinctive play and ball-hawking skills earned him the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year award. ​

Hunter’s unprecedented two-way performance culminated in winning the 2024 Heisman Trophy, making him the first full-time two-way player to receive the honor since Charles Woodson in 1997. He secured 552 first-place votes and amassed 2,231 points, becoming Colorado’s second Heisman winner after Rashaan Salaam in 1994. ​

Awards and Honors

In addition to the Heisman, Hunter’s stellar season earned him the Biletnikoff Award as the nation’s top wide receiver and the Bednarik Award for the best defensive player. This rare combination of accolades underscores his exceptional versatility and impact on both sides of the ball. ​

Hunter also received the Walter Camp Award, further cementing his status as college football’s most outstanding player in 2024. ​

NFL Draft Projections

Hunter’s unique skill set has positioned him as a top-five prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft. His ability to impact the game as both a cornerback and wide receiver makes him a coveted asset for NFL teams seeking versatility and playmaking ability. ​

Teams like the Tennessee Titans, Cleveland Browns, and New York Giants have shown interest in Hunter. His potential to contribute immediately on both offense and defense makes him an intriguing option for franchises looking to maximize talent and flexibility. ​

The Debate: Cornerback or Wide Receiver?

Some analysts believe Hunter’s instincts, coverage skills, and ball-hawking ability make him a natural fit at cornerback in the NFL. His capacity to shut down opposing receivers could provide immense value to any defense. ​

Others argue that Hunter’s route-running precision, reliable hands, and playmaking after the catch make him an ideal wide receiver. His offensive contributions could be game-changing for teams needing a dynamic pass-catcher. ​

Hunter’s Stance on Dual Roles

Hunter has expressed a strong desire to continue playing both positions at the professional level, aiming to make NFL history as a true dual-threat player. This ambition challenges traditional NFL norms and presents both opportunities and concerns.

While most teams hesitate to use a player on both offense and defense, Hunter’s unique talent makes it difficult to confine him to just one position. If any prospect in the modern era can redefine what’s possible in the NFL, it’s Hunter.

Deion Sanders, who excelled as a two-sport athlete in football and baseball, has been one of Hunter’s biggest supporters in his bid to play both sides of the ball. Sanders has frequently stated that if the right team is willing to give Hunter the opportunity, he will prove that a two-way player can thrive at the highest level.

With Sanders as his mentor, Hunter has been groomed to push the boundaries of what’s expected in the NFL. His ability to dominate both offensively and defensively could lead to a revolutionary shift in roster construction.

For fans in Colorado, his success has only fueled excitement ahead of the draft, sparking increased interest in top Colorado sports betting promos
before the draft unfolds.

The Future of Versatility in the NFL

If Hunter successfully carves out a role as a two-way player in the NFL, he could open the door for future athletes with similar ambitions. Teams may start to explore ways to maximize elite talent without restricting players to one side of the ball. His success could influence coaching philosophies, roster construction, and even draft scouting approaches.

Travis Hunter’s versatility extends beyond the field. His unique skill set and charisma make him one of the most marketable athletes entering the NFL. Brands looking for dynamic and game-changing athletes have already lined up endorsement opportunities for him. If he thrives in the pros, his name could become synonymous with versatility, much like Bo Jackson’s did in the late 1980s.

The 2001 Big 12 Championship Game saw the #7 Colorado Buffaloes pull off a stunning upset against the #3 Texas Longhorns, claiming their first Big 12 title in a dramatic 39-37 victory.

-An Offensive Showstopper:

The game was a high-scoring affair, with both teams showcasing their offensive firepower. Colorado's Bobby Pesavento and Texas' Chris Simms combined for over 600 passing yards and five touchdowns. The offensive fireworks kept fans on the edge of their seats throughout the contest.

-Late-Game Heroics:

With the score tied at 37 and just over a minute remaining, Colorado's defense forced a crucial turnover. Capitalizing on the opportunity, Pesavento led the Buffaloes on a game-winning drive, culminating in a 4-yard touchdown run to seal the victory with 28 seconds left.

-An Unforgettable Upset:

The 2001 Big 12 Championship Game is remembered as a classic in college football history. Colorado's unlikely victory against the heavily favored Longhorns was a testament to their resilience and offensive prowess. The game cemented the legacy of Colorado head coach Gary Barnett and quarterback Bobby Pesavento.

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The great Colorado Buffalo back went much higher in life than football took him.