Background of the Rivalry
The Rocky Mountain Showdown, one of college football’s oldest rivalries, began in 1893. Over 98 meetings, the Colorado Buffaloes hold a commanding 66-22-2 lead over the Colorado State Rams. Since 1995, the game has been an annual event, except for 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The rivalry’s intensity stems from its in-state pride, with both teams vying for the Centennial Cup. CSU Football vs Colorado Buffaloes Football Match Player Stats head coach in 2023 has elevated the matchup’s profile, drawing national attention to this storied clash.
Team Context Leading into the Game
Both teams entered the 2024 matchup with 1-1 records. The Colorado Buffaloes, coming off a 4-8 season in 2023, started with a win against North Dakota State but fell to Nebraska. Under Coach Deion Sanders, the Buffaloes aimed to build momentum.
The Colorado State Rams, with a 5-7 record in 2023, suffered a heavy loss to Texas but rebounded against Northern Colorado. Coach Jay Norvell emphasized improving the rushing game, targeting 4.0 yards per carry.
Game Summary
The 2024 Rocky Mountain Showdown, held at Canvas Stadium, saw Colorado dominate with a 28-9 victory. The game began with Colorado State taking a 3-0 lead via a 25-yard field goal by Jordan Noyes.
However, Colorado responded with two touchdown passes from Shedeur Sanders to LaJohntay Wester in the second quarter, leading 14-3 at halftime. In the second half, Sanders connected with Travis Hunter for two more touchdowns, while Colorado State managed a late touchdown by Justin Marshall.
Detailed CSU Football vs Colorado Buffaloes Football Match Player Stats Analysis
The CSU Football vs Colorado Buffaloes Football Match Player Stats from the CSU football vs Colorado Buffaloes football match reveal the key contributors to the game’s outcome. Below, we break down the performances of standout players from both teams.
Colorado Buffaloes
- Shedeur Sanders (QB): Sanders completed 36 of 49 passes for 310 yards, throwing four touchdowns without an interception. His ability to spread the ball to multiple receivers was crucial in maintaining offensive momentum.
- Travis Hunter (WR/DB): Hunter caught 13 passes for 100 yards and two touchdowns while also recording an interception on defense. His dual-threat performance was a game-changer, showcasing his versatility.
- LaJohntay Wester (WR): Wester hauled in four receptions for 80 yards, including two touchdowns in the second quarter. His early scores set the tone for Colorado’s dominance.
- Charlie Offerdahl (RB): Offerdahl contributed 15 rushing yards, providing a complementary ground game to Colorado’s passing attack.
- Alejandro Mata (K): Mata successfully kicked extra points after each of Colorado’s four touchdowns, ensuring maximum points from their scoring drives.
Colorado State Rams
- Brayden Fowler-Nicolosi (QB): Fowler-Nicolosi completed 22 of 39 passes for 209 yards but threw two interceptions and no touchdowns. His struggles limited Colorado State’s offensive output.
- Justin Marshall (RB): Marshall was a bright spot, rushing for 54 yards on 12 carries and scoring a 5-yard touchdown. He also added 29 receiving yards on three catches.
- Avery Morrow (RB): Morrow led the Rams with 67 rushing yards, including a notable 62-yard run, showcasing his potential as a key offensive weapon.
- Tory Horton (WR): Horton caught four passes for 24 yards and returned a punt for 15 yards, totaling 39 yards. Despite a quieter game, he remained a vital playmaker.
- Dylan Goffney (WR): Goffney contributed 37 receiving yards, providing a secondary option in the passing game.
- Jordan Noyes (K): Noyes scored Colorado State’s first points with a 25-yard field goal in the first quarter.
| Player | Team | Total Yards | TDs | Rush Yds | Rush TD | Rec Yds | Rec TD | KR Yds | KR TD | PR Yds | PR TD |
| Shedeur Sanders | COLO | 310 (Pass) | 4 | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – |
| Travis Hunter | COLO | 100 | 2 | – | – | 100 | 2 | – | – | – | – |
| LaJohntay Wester | COLO | 81 | 2 | – | – | 80 | 2 | – | – | 1 | – |
| Charlie Offerdahl | COLO | 15 | 0 | 16 | – | -1 | – | – | – | – | – |
| Justin Marshall | CSU | 83 | 1 | 54 | 1 | 29 | – | – | – | – | – |
| Avery Morrow | CSU | 67 | 0 | 67 | – | – | – | – | – | – | – |
| Tory Horton | CSU | 39 | 0 | – | – | 24 | – | – | – | 15 | – |
| Dylan Goffney | CSU | 37 | 0 | – | – | 37 | – | – | – | – | – |
Key Takeaways from the Stats
The statistics highlight Colorado’s offensive efficiency, particularly in the passing game. Shedeur Sanders’ 310 passing yards and four touchdowns overwhelmed Colorado State’s defense. Travis Hunter’s dual-threat performance, including his interception, shifted momentum in Colorado’s favor.
Conversely, Colorado State’s four turnovers, including two interceptions by Fowler-Nicolosi, hindered their ability to compete. The Rams’ rushing game, led by Morrow and Marshall, showed promise but couldn’t compensate for their passing struggles.
Historical Context
The Rocky Mountain Showdown has produced many memorable moments. In 2019, Colorado State stunned Colorado with a 51-44 double-overtime victory, one of the rivalry’s greatest games.
In 2023, Colorado, under Deion Sanders, won 43-35 in another double-overtime thriller, setting high expectations for 2024. The rivalry’s history, combined with its modern star power, continues to captivate fans.
Game Highlights
The game’s turning points included Colorado State’s early 3-0 lead via Noyes’ field goal. Colorado responded with a 12-play, 85-yard drive, capped by a 4-yard touchdown pass to Wester. Before halftime, Sanders threw a 34-yard touchdown to Wester, extending the lead to 14-3. In the third quarter, Hunter’s interception set up a quick touchdown, and his 21-yard touchdown catch in the fourth sealed the victory.
Post-Game Reactions
Post-game comments reflected the emotional stakes of the rivalry. Travis Hunter said, “It meant a lot. I was out for a good portion last year, so just being able to play and help my team win, it felt good.” Shedeur Sanders noted, “Just a little bit of extra motivation when they’re talking crazy.
So, yeah, they just asked for it.” Deion Sanders praised his lines, stating, “I’m so darn proud of the offensive line, the defensive line, and Buff Nation as well.” Colorado State’s Jay Norvell admitted, “We just weren’t good enough. We need to get players better or replace players.”
Significance for Players and Teams
For Shedeur Sanders, this game was a defining moment, showcasing his potential as a top quarterback. Travis Hunter’s all-around performance further solidified his status as a generational talent.
For Colorado State, Justin Marshall and Avery Morrow demonstrated their value, offering hope for future games. Colorado’s win boosts their momentum for Big 12 play, while Colorado State aims to improve in the Mountain West.
Statistical Comparison
The following table compares key team statistics:
| Statistic | Colorado | Colorado State |
| Total Yards | 419 | 340 |
| Passing Yards | 310 | 209 |
| Rushing Yards | 109 | 131 |
| Turnovers | 1 | 4 |
| First Downs | 23 | 17 |
| Third Down Conversion | 5/11 (45.5%) | 4/15 (26.7%) |
Colorado’s superior passing game and turnover advantage were decisive factors in their victory.
Implications for the Season
Colorado’s win strengthens their case for a bowl game, building on their 9-4 record in 2024. For Colorado State, the loss highlights areas for improvement, particularly in ball security and passing efficiency. Both teams will use this game as a learning experience as they navigate their respective conference schedules.
Conclusion
The 2024 Rocky Mountain Showdown was a testament to the passion and intensity of this historic rivalry. With standout performances from Shedeur Sanders, Travis Hunter, and others, the Colorado Buffaloes secured a commanding victory.
For fans, this game was a thrilling display of college football at its best. Stay tuned for more in-depth analyses of college football’s biggest matchups!
FAQs
- Who won the 2024 Rocky Mountain Showdown?
The Colorado Buffaloes defeated the Colorado State Rams 28-9. - How many touchdowns did Shedeur Sanders throw?
Shedeur Sanders threw four touchdown passes. - What was Travis Hunter’s contribution?
Hunter had 13 receptions, 100 receiving yards, two touchdowns, and one interception. - Who scored Colorado State’s only touchdown?
Justin Marshall scored with a 5-yard run. - What was the total yardage for each team?
Colorado had 419 yards, while Colorado State had 340.
