UPDATE: The Colorado Buffaloes faced a shocking defeat against Arizona, losing 52-17 at Folsom Field on November 1, 2025. This latest loss not only marks a significant decline in performance but also featured a staggering 14 penalties for a total of 110 yards, the highest so far this season.
In a game that was supposed to showcase the Buffs’ potential, their defense collapsed and the offense struggled to gain traction. Coming into the game, Colorado was among the least-penalized teams in the Big 12, averaging just 5.0 penalties per game. However, they more than doubled their previous season high of six penalties, a trend that clearly contributed to their downfall.
Head coach Deion Sanders expressed his frustration, stating, “Yeah, that’s probably a record since I’ve been here.” However, the Buffs had previously recorded 17 penalties in their overtime loss to Stanford, and they were penalized 14 times in a win against Texas Tech. “It don’t make sense, especially when I think we’ve been rated in the top 25 with penalties this season,” he added. “Today, just horrible. Penalty-wise, horrible. No discipline.”
Key moments in the game were overshadowed by penalties. In the second quarter, down 24-7, a potential 75-yard touchdown pass from Kaidon Salter to Sincere Brown was negated due to two penalties—Omarion Miller for being an ineligible receiver and guard Yahya Attia for unsportsmanlike conduct. As a result, the Buffs faced a daunting first-and-25 from their own 10-yard line.
Just after the Buffs intercepted a pass, an illegal roughing the passer call on Arden Walker nullified the turnover, demonstrating how penalties thwarted any momentum Colorado could have gained. The Buffs’ struggles were compounded by Arizona’s effective ground game, which rushed for 204 yards, marking the sixth time this season the Buffaloes allowed over 200 rushing yards.
Despite the loss, there were highlights for the Buffs. Kicker Alejandro Mata extended his remarkable streak to 104 consecutive extra points, setting a new CU record. He is now 106-of-107 in his career and has moved into 11th place on CU’s all-time scoring list with 187 points, surpassing legendary player Byron White.
In a personal moment amidst the turmoil, former Colorado quarterback and current Cleveland Browns rookie Shedeur Sanders was present at the game to support his father, Coach Prime. “These shenanigans put a damper on it. I haven’t seen my son in a long time,” Deion Sanders shared. “Forget the game, I’m just happy to see my kids whenever I get the opportunity.”
The Buffaloes will need to regroup quickly as they face critical upcoming games. The penalty issues cannot continue if they hope to compete effectively in the remaining season. Fans are left wondering how the team will address these challenges moving forward.
As this story develops, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely for any changes in strategy or personnel that could help the Buffs turn their season around.
