UPDATE: In a thrilling return to form, quarterback Kaidon Salter led the Colorado Buffaloes to a decisive 37-20 victory over the Wyoming Cowboys on October 1, 2023. Salter, who was reinstated as the starting QB, threw for three touchdown passes and sealed the game with a critical rushing touchdown in the final minutes.
The Buffaloes (2-2) stormed out to a commanding lead, going up 28-3 early in the third quarter before the Cowboys (2-2) attempted to mount a comeback. Salter showcased his skills, completing 18 of 28 passes for 304 yards and rushing for 86 yards. His standout plays included a 29-yard touchdown pass to Omarion Miller and a remarkable 68-yard strike to Sincere Brown, along with a 47-yard touchdown to Joseph Williams.
The game turned tense as Wyoming rallied, but Colorado’s defense stepped up. Defensive end Arden Walker made a pivotal play, sacking QB Kaden Anderson in the end zone for a safety, extending Colorado’s lead to 30-13. Despite a score from Wyoming, Salter’s 35-yard rushing touchdown with just 1:46 left in the game put the victory out of reach.
In an emotional highlight, the Buffaloes welcomed their new live mascot, Ralphie VII, to the field. The one-year-old bison made her debut, thrilling the crowd after replacing Ralphie VI, who retired due to a lack of enthusiasm for the run.
The matchup marked the first meeting in 16 years between these two rival teams, separated by approximately 130 miles. Historically, they have met just seven times since 1947.
In terms of injuries, Colorado’s left tackle Jordan Seaton was sidelined in the second half, walking the sidelines in sweatpants with an apparent limp. Additionally, defensive tackle Anquin Barnes Jr. was disqualified in the third quarter for targeting.
The Buffaloes amassed a total of 497 yards in offense, including 193 yards on the ground. Wyoming’s defense also made headlines by blocking their third field goal of the season, a 34-yard attempt by Alejandro Mata in the fourth quarter.
Looking ahead, Wyoming will host UNLV on October 4, while Colorado will seek to build on their momentum at home against BYU next Saturday.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
