Sanders, Colorado pulls off comeback to beat Baylor 38-31 in OT

The Buffs have an incredible stretch in the final minutes

Christopher Hanewinckel-Imagn Images

In a thrilling and dramatic comeback, the Colorado Buffaloes secured a 38-31 victory over the Baylor Bears in overtime on a rainy Saturday night. LaJohntay Wester caught a 43-yard Hail Mary from Shedeur Sanders as time expired in regulation, tying the game and sending it into overtime. The play was reminiscent of the legendary "Miracle at Michigan" from 1994, which saw the Buffaloes claim victory on a similar last-second play. This dramatic catch was followed by Alejandro Mata's extra point, which forced overtime and set the stage for more heroics.



In overtime, the Buffaloes capitalized on a short touchdown plunge from Micah Welch, giving them their first lead since the first quarter. However, the defining moment came when Travis Hunter, Colorado's two-way star, made a game-saving play. Hunter forced a fumble at the 1-yard line, knocking the ball loose from Baylor running back Dominic Richardson. The ball rolled out of the end zone, securing the win for Colorado as fans rushed the field in celebration.



Throughout the game, Shedeur Sanders was a constant force for Colorado, throwing for 341 yards despite being sacked eight times. His last-second throw to Wester, combined with his overall resilience under pressure, demonstrated his growing stature as a clutch performer. Wester’s catch was upheld upon review, and it will likely go down as one of the season’s most memorable moments. Meanwhile, Omarion Miller, in his first significant action of the season, scored on a 58-yard touchdown that kept Colorado within striking distance at halftime.



The game also showcased the dynamic play of Travis Hunter, who not only made critical contributions on defense but also caught seven passes for 130 yards. Hunter’s versatility continues to fuel his Heisman candidacy, and his game-changing fumble in overtime only adds to his growing legend.

TRAVIS HUNTER FORCES THE FUMBLE FOR THE COLORADO WIN 😤🔥@CUBuffsFootball pic.twitter.com/9HIumwyqCl

— FOX College Football (@CFBONFOX) September 22, 2024

The win marked Colorado’s first Big 12 conference victory under head coach Deion Sanders, as the Buffaloes showed resilience and grit throughout the game. Shedeur Sanders once again demonstrated his ability to deliver in the clutch, with the Hail Mary being the defining moment in a game filled with back-and-forth action.

For Baylor, the loss was heartbreaking. The Bears had multiple chances to secure the victory, including a missed 45-yard field goal by Isaiah Hankins that would have sealed the game. Despite Baylor’s big plays, including a 100-yard kickoff return by Jamaal Bell and a 45-yard touchdown run by Sawyer Robertson, the Buffaloes’ resilience ultimately proved too much. Baylor coach Dave Aranda described the loss as "heart-wrenching," as his team fell to 2-2 on the season. Colorado, meanwhile, improved to 3-1 and celebrated a triumphant return to Big 12 Conference play.