Colorado Buffaloes Fall to Arizona State Sun Devils in Home Finale: A Tough Battle Ends in Defeat
The Colorado Buffaloes faced off against the Arizona State Sun Devils in their home finale, putting up a strong fight for three quarters. However, a series of unfortunate events, including a costly fumble and a questionable personnel decision, led to their downfall. Arizona State, ranked No. 25 in the College Football Playoff rankings, ultimately emerged victorious with a 42-17 win at Folsom Field. The Buffaloes' record fell to 3-8 (1-7 Big 12) after suffering their fourth consecutive loss, while ASU improved to 8-3 (6-2) with their third straight win.
Despite ASU committing four turnovers, CU had a chance to secure a win as they entered the fourth quarter trailing 21-17. A critical fumble by walk-on running back Ronald Coleman, who was inserted into the game over regular backs Dallan Hayden and Micah Welch, shifted the momentum in ASU's favor. The Sun Devils capitalized on the turnover, with Raleek Brown scoring an 88-yard touchdown on the next play to extend their lead to 28-17. ASU further solidified their victory with additional touchdowns, sealing the game at 42-17.
ASU's offense, despite the turnovers, dominated the game with 580 total yards, including 355 rushing yards, 205 of which came in the fourth quarter alone. Running back Raleek Brown led the charge with 255 yards on 22 carries. CU's freshman quarterback JuJu Lewis faced constant pressure throughout the game, completing 19-of-38 passes for 161 yards and a touchdown. While CU's defense showed promise early on, the team struggled to capitalize on opportunities, ultimately falling short against ASU's offensive prowess.
The Buffaloes initially took a 7-3 lead in the first quarter but relinquished it late in the second quarter as ASU surged ahead. Despite briefly regaining the lead in the third quarter, CU couldn't maintain their momentum, allowing ASU to pull away and secure a decisive victory. The game highlighted the Buffaloes' resilience but also underscored the challenges they faced against a formidable opponent like Arizona State.