Celebrities arriving in Orlando ahead of Colorado-UCF

A few notables will be on the sidelines with Coach Prime and the Buffs

Kris Miller/SI

As anticipation builds for the first-ever meeting between the Colorado Buffaloes and UCF Knights, a wave of celebrity arrivals has heightened the buzz in Orlando. Among the high-profile names spotted in the city are former NFL MVP Cam Newton, ex-NFL wide receiver Brandon Marshall, and renowned rapper Rick Ross. Their presence in town has stirred excitement ahead of the highly anticipated Saturday afternoon clash, set for 3:30 p.m. ET on FOX.

Kris Miller/SI

Kris Miller/SI

Kris Miller/SI

Colorado enters the matchup as a two-score underdog, a surprising twist given their attention-grabbing performances earlier in the season. The Buffaloes, led by head coach Deion Sanders, face a tough challenge against UCF in what is expected to be a hot and humid contest at the Bounce House. With temperatures projected to hit the high 80s and a chance of thunderstorms at kickoff, the weather conditions could become a factor in the game’s outcome.

Cam Newton, known for his electrifying play on the field, brings additional attention to the game with his presence. Newton’s ties to Deion Sanders run deep, as the two share a history of mutual respect within the football world. Similarly, Brandon Marshall, a former NFL star, is no stranger to spotlighting big events, especially ones involving Sanders. Meanwhile, Ross, a fixture in the music industry, adds to the star-studded atmosphere surrounding the event.

Pablo Banchero made the trip down the highway to see the Buffs and Knights. The NBA Rookie of the Year, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2022 Draft for the Orlando Magic earned his first All-Star nod, along with the franchise's first playoff appearance in four years

With a mix of celebrity glamour and the unpredictable Florida weather, this showdown between Colorado and UCF is shaping up to be an intriguing spectacle. Fans and analysts alike will be watching to see if Coach Prime and the Buffaloes can rise to the occasion despite the odds.