Colorado Football Schedule 2024: Dates, Times, TV Channels & Analysis
Colorado Buffaloes Football Schedule 2024: A Complete Guide
Get ready, Buffaloes fans! The 2024 college football season is shaping up to be another exciting one for the University of Colorado. After a whirlwind 2023 season under Coach Prime, expectations are high, and the schedule is packed with intriguing matchups. This comprehensive guide will provide you with the most up-to-date information on the Colorado Buffaloes football schedule, including dates, times, TV channels, game analysis, and more. We'll also delve into key games, potential challenges, and provide expert insights to help you stay informed throughout the season.
Why This Schedule Matters
The 2024 schedule is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it's Colorado's second season under Coach Prime, Deion Sanders. The program aims to build on the foundation laid in 2023, showcasing further development and improvement. Secondly, the competitive landscape of college football is constantly evolving with the addition of new programs, the transfer portal, and NIL deals impacting team dynamics. Colorado's ability to navigate this landscape will heavily depend on how they perform against their opponents in the schedule.
Finally, the schedule’s difficulty plays a significant role in postseason aspirations. A favorable schedule can lead to more wins, improving their bowl eligibility and College Football Playoff contention. A challenging schedule requires the Buffs to prove their mettle against top-ranked teams.
Complete Colorado Buffaloes 2024 Football Schedule
Here's the complete Colorado Buffaloes football schedule for the 2024 season. Note that game times and TV networks are subject to change, so be sure to check back frequently for the latest updates. All times are Mountain Time (MT).
- August 29 (Thursday): vs. North Dakota State – Folsom Field, Boulder, CO – Time: 6:00 PM MT – TV: ESPN
- September 7 (Saturday): at Nebraska – Memorial Stadium, Lincoln, NE – Time: 5:30 PM MT – TV: NBC
- September 14 (Saturday): at Colorado State – Canvas Stadium, Fort Collins, CO – Time: 5:30 PM MT – TV: CBS
- September 21 (Saturday): vs. Baylor – Folsom Field, Boulder, CO – Time: TBD – TV: TBD
- September 28 (Saturday): at UCF – FBC Mortgage Stadium, Orlando, FL – Time: TBD – TV: TBD
- October 5 (Saturday): vs. Arizona – Folsom Field, Boulder, CO – Time: TBD – TV: TBD
- October 12 (Saturday): vs. Arizona State – Folsom Field, Boulder, CO – Time: TBD – TV: TBD
- October 19 (Saturday): at Kansas State – Bill Snyder Family Stadium, Manhattan, KS – Time: TBD – TV: TBD
- October 26 (Saturday): BYE WEEK
- November 2 (Saturday): at Utah – Rice-Eccles Stadium, Salt Lake City, UT – Time: TBD – TV: TBD
- November 9 (Saturday): vs. Kansas – Folsom Field, Boulder, CO – Time: TBD – TV: TBD
- November 16 (Saturday): vs. Oklahoma State – Folsom Field, Boulder, CO – Time: TBD – TV: TBD
- November 23 (Saturday): at Cincinnati – Nippert Stadium, Cincinnati, OH – Time: TBD – TV: TBD
- November 29 (Friday): vs. Texas Tech – Folsom Field, Boulder, CO – Time: TBD – TV: TBD
TBD: To Be Determined
Key Games to Watch
Several games on the Colorado Buffaloes' schedule stand out as particularly important or intriguing. Here's a closer look at some of the key matchups:
North Dakota State (August 29)
Significance: Season opener, opportunity to build momentum.
The season opener against North Dakota State is crucial for setting the tone. North Dakota State is an FCS powerhouse program, consistently ranked at the top of their division. This provides a valuable test for Colorado and the opportunity to showcase improvements made during the offseason. A strong performance can boost team morale and provide confidence heading into the tougher games ahead.
Keys to Victory: Establish a strong running game early, minimize turnovers, and maintain discipline on defense.
at Nebraska (September 7)
Significance: Revival of a classic rivalry, early-season test against a Power Five opponent.
The rivalry between Colorado and Nebraska has a long and storied history, making this game a highly anticipated matchup. Playing in Lincoln presents a hostile environment, testing Colorado's ability to perform under pressure on the road. This game offers a significant opportunity for Colorado to gain national attention and solidify their position as a rising program. After last year’s thrilling victory, Nebraska will be looking for revenge in front of their home crowd.
Keys to Victory: Control the line of scrimmage, limit Nebraska's rushing attack, and execute efficiently in the red zone.
at Colorado State (September 14)
Significance: In-state rivalry game, crucial for bragging rights and regional dominance.
The annual matchup against Colorado State is always a heated affair, with bragging rights and state pride on the line. This game provides an opportunity for Colorado to assert their dominance within the state and build momentum for the rest of the season. With the game being in Fort Collins, the Rams will be eager to prove their mettle against the Buffaloes.
Keys to Victory: Contain Colorado State's offensive playmakers, win the turnover battle, and maintain composure in a hostile environment.
vs. Baylor (September 21)
Significance: First Big 12 Conference game since rejoining the conference.
This game marks the first conference game since Colorado rejoined the Big 12 Conference, adding an extra layer of significance. Baylor, a historically strong program, will present a tough challenge for Colorado, testing their ability to compete within the conference. A victory in their first conference game can set the tone for their Big 12 campaign and boost their confidence.
Keys to Victory: Execute a balanced offensive attack, limit Baylor's big plays, and force turnovers.
at UCF (September 28)
Significance: Road game against a new Big 12 opponent in Orlando, Florida.
Traveling to Orlando to face UCF presents a unique challenge for Colorado. UCF, known for their high-powered offense, will test Colorado's defensive capabilities. This game provides an opportunity for Colorado to demonstrate their ability to compete on the road against a quality opponent and expand their national reach.
Keys to Victory: Control the tempo of the game, limit UCF's explosive plays, and maintain possession.
at Kansas State (October 19)
Significance: Challenging road game against a traditionally strong Big 12 program.
A trip to Manhattan to play Kansas State is always a tough task. Kansas State, known for their disciplined play and strong defense, will test Colorado's offensive versatility. This game offers a significant opportunity for Colorado to prove their ability to compete against the top teams in the Big 12 and improve their conference standing.
Keys to Victory: Establish a strong running game, protect the quarterback, and win the special teams battle.
at Utah (November 2)
Significance: Road game against a conference rival.
Utah has consistently been one of the top teams in the Pac-12/Big 12 over the last decade. This late-season matchup in Salt Lake City will be a tough test for Coach Prime's squad.
Keys to Victory: Limit Utah's rushing attack, create turnovers, and capitalize on scoring opportunities.
vs. Kansas (November 9)
Significance: Home game against a Big 12 opponent, aiming for a crucial conference win.
Hosting Kansas provides an opportunity for Colorado to secure a valuable conference win at home. Kansas, known for their offensive firepower, will test Colorado's defensive capabilities. A victory in this game can improve Colorado's conference standing and boost their bowl eligibility chances.
Keys to Victory: Control the line of scrimmage, limit Kansas' passing game, and execute efficiently on offense.
vs. Oklahoma State (November 16)
Significance: Late-season matchup against a Big 12 contender.
Oklahoma State has consistently been a strong program in the Big 12 conference, making this a crucial late-season matchup for Colorado. A win against the Cowboys would be a major statement for the Buffaloes.
Keys to Victory: Contain Oklahoma State's star players, control the tempo of the game, and make key plays on special teams.
at Cincinnati (November 23)
Significance: Challenging road game late in the season.
Cincinnati's Nippert Stadium is a tough place to play, making this a difficult late-season road game for the Buffaloes. The Bearcats are looking to establish themselves in the Big 12 and will provide a stern test.
Keys to Victory: Establish a strong running game, win the turnover battle, and maintain composure in a hostile environment.
vs. Texas Tech (November 29)
Significance: Final game of the regular season.
The final game of the regular season against Texas Tech provides an opportunity for Colorado to finish strong and potentially improve their bowl game prospects. Texas Tech, known for their high-scoring offense, will test Colorado's defensive abilities. A victory in this game can send a positive message to recruits and fans heading into the offseason.
Keys to Victory: Control the tempo of the game, limit Texas Tech's big plays, and execute efficiently on offense.
Analyzing the Colorado Buffaloes 2024 Schedule
The 2024 Colorado Buffaloes schedule presents a mix of challenges and opportunities. Here's a breakdown of the schedule's overall difficulty and potential impact on the team's success.
Schedule Difficulty
The schedule can be considered moderately challenging. Games against Nebraska, Colorado State, Kansas State, Utah, Oklahoma State and Cincinnati represent significant tests. The Baylor and Kansas games are also crucial within the conference.
Potential Challenges
- Road Games: The Buffaloes face several tough road games, including trips to Nebraska, Colorado State, UCF, Kansas State, Utah, and Cincinnati. Playing in hostile environments can be challenging, requiring the team to maintain composure and execute effectively under pressure.
- Conference Play: The Big 12 Conference is known for its competitive balance, with several teams vying for the top spot. Colorado will need to be prepared for tough matchups week in and week out.
- Injuries: Injuries are an inevitable part of football, and the Buffaloes will need to have depth at key positions to withstand potential setbacks. Maintaining player health and conditioning will be crucial throughout the season.
Opportunities for Success
- Home-Field Advantage: Folsom Field can be a significant advantage for the Buffaloes, providing a supportive environment for the team. Capitalizing on home games is crucial for building momentum and securing key victories.
- Non-Conference Games: The non-conference schedule presents opportunities for Colorado to build confidence and gain momentum heading into conference play. Strong performances in these games can boost team morale and improve their national ranking.
- Experienced Players: The returning experienced players will provide valuable leadership and stability. Their experience can help the team navigate challenging situations and execute effectively in critical moments.
Expert Predictions and Analysis
While predicting the outcome of an entire college football season is always challenging, here's some expert analysis and predictions for the Colorado Buffaloes in 2024:
Preseason Expectations
Most analysts predict the Buffaloes will improve on their record from 2023. With a year of experience under Coach Prime and some key additions to the roster via the transfer portal, expectations are cautiously optimistic.
Key Factors for Success
- Quarterback Play: The performance of the quarterback will be crucial to Colorado's success. Improved decision-making, accuracy, and leadership from the quarterback position can elevate the entire offense.
- Defensive Improvement: Strengthening the defense is essential for Colorado to compete against the top teams in the Big 12. Improved tackling, pass coverage, and pass rush can significantly impact the team's overall performance.
- Special Teams: Consistent and reliable special teams play can provide a significant advantage. Improved punting, kicking, and kick coverage can help the Buffaloes win close games.
Realistic Expectations
A realistic expectation for the Colorado Buffaloes in 2024 is to compete for a bowl game berth. While competing for a conference championship may be a stretch, showing improvement and competitiveness throughout the season is a reasonable goal.
How to Stay Updated on the Colorado Buffaloes Football Schedule
Staying updated on the latest information regarding the Colorado Buffaloes football schedule is essential for fans. Here are some ways to stay informed:
- Official University of Colorado Athletics Website: The official athletics website is the primary source for schedule updates, game times, TV information, and other important announcements. Visit cubuffs.com for the latest news.
- Social Media: Follow the official Colorado Buffaloes football accounts on social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram for real-time updates and behind-the-scenes content.
- Sports News Websites: Reputable sports news websites such as ESPN, CBS Sports, and Fox Sports provide comprehensive coverage of college football, including the Colorado Buffaloes.
- Local News Outlets: Local news outlets in the Denver and Boulder area offer in-depth coverage of the Colorado Buffaloes football program.
Conclusion
The 2024 Colorado Buffaloes football schedule presents a challenging but exciting opportunity for the program. With key matchups against Nebraska, Colorado State, Kansas State, Utah, Oklahoma State and Cincinnati, the Buffaloes will have ample opportunities to prove their competitiveness and establish themselves as a rising force in the Big 12 Conference. By staying informed and supporting the team, fans can play a crucial role in the Buffaloes' success. Get ready for another thrilling season of Colorado Buffaloes football!
Additional Resources
For more in-depth coverage and analysis of Colorado Buffaloes football, check out the following resources:
