Travis Hunter penalized for unsportsmanlike conduct after praying vs. Stanford

Buffaloes star player had a breakout game in his return

Colorado Buffaloes two-way standout Travis Hunter returned after being sidelined with a lacerated liver for three past games. He ended up playing on both sides of the ball and contributed in Colorado’s 46-43 loss against Stanford on Friday night.

Hunter led the Buffs with 13 catches for 140 yards and two touchdowns. He also collected five tackles on defense. Many believed college football's star player would return Oct. 28 against UCLA after CU's bye week. But, Hunter got out there a bit early without a snap count.  

On Colorado’s second possession, Hunter scored on a 24-yard spin and run. He crossed the goal line, dropped the ball and hit his knees for a prayer. A flag was thrown by the officiating crew for unsportsmanlike conduct following his actions. Nobody was about to address the ruling on the play. It's was Hunter's first touchdown after returning to the Buffs lineup. 

According to the NCAA rules, examples of an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty includes, but is not limited to: "Taunting and screaming obscenities, cursing the officials in a loud and abusive manner, leaping to feet, beating chest, showboats to the crowd, and exchanging “high-fives” with the fans." There's no specific language on praying being tied to any rules. 

Hunter's penalty is similar to the one former NFL player Husain Abdullah received in a game in 2014. He got a 15-yard unsportsmanlike conduct penalty for sliding on his knees and praying after scoring. The NFL later came back and called it an error. 

Colorado hits a bye week before facing No. 13 UCLA at the Rose Bowl in two weeks.