The Rumble in the Rockies will be a critical moment in the schedule

Buffs and Utes renew the rivalry with a lot on the line

Christopher Creveling-Imagn Images

The Colorado Buffaloes hosting the Utah Utes is shaping up to be a pivotal matchup, one that could redefine the trajectory of Colorado's season. This late-season clash highlights the stark contrast between two teams that entered 2024 with very different expectations and have taken paths no one could have foreseen. The stakes for both programs are high, and the narratives surrounding this game make it one of the most intriguing contests of the season.

For Utah, the season began with aspirations of a College Football Playoff berth. Head coach Kyle Whittingham had a roster stacked with talent, a proven system, and a veteran quarterback in Cam Rising to lead the charge. However, injuries have derailed what should have been a dominant campaign. The absence of Rising has been particularly damaging, as his leadership and playmaking ability are central to Utah's identity. Without him, the offense has struggled to maintain its usual efficiency, forcing the Utes to rely heavily on their defense. While Utah's defensive unit remains formidable, the inability to sustain drives and control the clock has put the team in an unfamiliar position: playing for pride rather than championships.

On the other side, Colorado entered the season with plenty of hype but tempered expectations. Head coach Deion Sanders, in his first year at the helm, brought a level of energy and attention to Boulder that the program hadn’t experienced in decades. Critics questioned whether the Buffaloes could back up the noise on the field. Four months later, those doubts have largely been silenced. Despite a couple of setbacks, Colorado has emerged as one of the most compelling stories in college football. With only two losses—one of which was a close game against a highly-ranked opponent—the Buffaloes find themselves in control of their destiny within the Big 12 Conference.

This game against Utah is critical for Colorado not only to maintain momentum but to solidify their legitimacy as a conference power. However, overlooking Utah would be a dangerous mistake. Whittingham’s teams have long been known for their resilience, and even a depleted Utah squad is capable of pulling off an upset. The Utes will bring a level of physicality and discipline that could disrupt Colorado's rhythm, especially if the Buffaloes aren’t fully prepared.

Colorado to wear 'Salute to Service' uniforms vs. Utah

For the Buffaloes, this game is about staying focused and avoiding the pitfalls of complacency. Colorado has navigated a tough schedule admirably, with their only poor performance coming in a game that now feels like an outlier. The Buffaloes have shown they can adapt, execute, and thrive under pressure. With the stakes as high as they are, this is no time to let up. Beyond the tactical elements, the emotional weight of the week cannot be ignored. It’s Peggy Coppom’s 100th birthday week, and the energy surrounding the program reflects a desire to honor one of Colorado’s most beloved fans with a victory.

If the Buffaloes handle their business, they’ll set themselves up for a strong finish to the season and a chance to make noise in the Big 12 Championship. However, a lapse in focus could lead to a costly setback. This game is about more than just rankings or records—it’s about proving that Colorado’s rise is no fluke and that they are here to stay.