Utah Utes at Colorado Buffaloes Player Props, Picks and Predictions - 11/16/2024 12:00 PM EST
We have your Utah Utes at Colorado Buffaloes prop betting and game preview needs covered as the Utah Utes hit the road to face the Colorado Buffaloes.
Utah Utes at Colorado Buffaloes Odds Info
Best Moneyline Odds: Utah Utes +390 (FanDuel) / Colorado Buffaloes -420 (BetRivers)
Best Spread Odds: -13.5 - Utah Utes -105 (bet365) / Colorado Buffaloes -115 (bet365)
Best Total Odds: 43.5 - Under -110 (DraftKings) / Over -110 (DraftKings)
Game Info
Date: 11/16/2024
Time: 12:00 PM EST
Location: Folsom Field (Boulder, CO)
TV: FOX
Utah Utes at Colorado Buffaloes Preview
The Colorado Buffaloes, under the charismatic leadership of head coach Deion Sanders, are riding high with a 7-2 record, aiming to solidify their position in the Big 12 standings and keep their College Football Playoff hopes alive. The Buffaloes have been a revelation this season, transforming from a struggling program into a formidable contender. Their recent 41-27 victory over Texas Tech showcased their offensive prowess, led by quarterback Shedeur Sanders, who has been exceptional with 2,882 passing yards and 24 touchdowns. Two-way star Travis Hunter continues to bolster his Heisman Trophy campaign with standout performances on both sides of the ball, making him a critical asset for Colorado.
On the other side, the Utah Utes have faced a challenging season, plagued by injuries and a five-game losing streak that has derailed their early College Football Playoff aspirations. Despite these setbacks, Utah's defense remains a force to be reckoned with, ranking first in the Big 12 by allowing just 17.1 points and 307.4 total yards per game. Their ability to stifle passing attacks, conceding only 175.0 passing yards per game, will be crucial against Colorado's high-octane offense.
Utah's offensive struggles have been exacerbated by injuries to key quarterbacks, with Cam Rising and Brandon Rose sidelined for the season. Freshman Isaac Wilson, dealing with illness, adds to the uncertainty at the quarterback position. Despite these challenges, Utah has remained competitive, losing their last four games by just one score, including a narrow 22-21 defeat to BYU.
As the Utes travel to Boulder, they will need to rely heavily on their defense to contain Colorado's explosive offense. The Buffaloes, meanwhile, will look to capitalize on Utah's offensive vulnerabilities and extend their winning streak to four games. With the stakes high and a potential Big 12 Championship game berth on the line, this matchup promises to be a thrilling encounter at Folsom Field.
Utah Utes at Colorado Buffaloes Pick: Colorado Buffaloes Moneyline
The Colorado Buffaloes are poised to continue their impressive run under head coach Deion Sanders, and the moneyline pick for this matchup strongly favors them. With a 7-2 record, the Buffaloes have demonstrated their ability to dominate opponents, particularly with their high-powered offense led by quarterback Shedeur Sanders. Sanders has been a revelation this season, amassing 2,882 passing yards and 24 touchdowns, making Colorado one of the most formidable offensive units in college football.
Colorado's recent performances have been nothing short of spectacular, as evidenced by their commanding 41-27 victory over Texas Tech. This win extended their current winning streak to three games, all of which were secured by double-digit margins. The Buffaloes have also been consistent in covering the spread, achieving this feat in seven consecutive games, which underscores their reliability and strength as a team.
On the defensive side, Colorado has made significant strides, thanks to the strategic hiring of longtime NFL coach Robert Livingston as their defensive coordinator. The Buffaloes are allowing just 22.6 points and 367.2 total yards per game, showcasing a balanced approach that complements their offensive prowess.
In contrast, the Utah Utes are grappling with a challenging season marred by injuries and a five-game losing streak. Their offensive struggles are compounded by the absence of key quarterbacks Cam Rising and Brandon Rose, leaving them with uncertainty at the quarterback position. Although Utah's defense remains a formidable force, ranking first in the Big 12 in several categories, their inability to generate consistent offensive production has been a significant hindrance.
Given these dynamics, the Colorado Buffaloes are well-positioned to capitalize on Utah's vulnerabilities and extend their winning streak. With the stakes high and a potential Big 12 Championship game berth on the line, the Buffaloes' combination of offensive firepower and improved defense makes them the clear choice for the moneyline pick in this matchup.
Utah Utes at Colorado Buffaloes Top Player Prop Picks
Travis Hunter Over 7.5 Receptions -120 (bet365)
Travis Hunter has been a standout performer for the Colorado Buffaloes, consistently showcasing his dual-threat capabilities on both offense and defense. With 69 catches for 856 yards and nine touchdowns this season, Hunter has been a reliable target for quarterback Shedeur Sanders. In their recent victory over Texas Tech, Hunter recorded nine receptions, further solidifying his role as a key component of Colorado's high-powered offense. Given Utah's defensive strength against the pass, allowing only 175.0 passing yards per game, Sanders will likely rely heavily on Hunter to break through the Utes' formidable secondary. With Hunter's proven track record and the Buffaloes' need to maintain their offensive momentum, betting on Hunter to exceed 7.5 receptions is a strong play.
Shedeur Sanders Over 2.5 Passing TDs +135 (BetMGM)
Shedeur Sanders has been the driving force behind Colorado's offensive success, amassing 2,882 passing yards and 24 touchdowns this season. His ability to lead the Buffaloes to victory was on full display in their recent 41-27 win over Texas Tech, where he threw for three touchdowns. Despite Utah's defensive prowess, ranking first in the Big 12 in several categories, Sanders' efficiency and the Buffaloes' dynamic passing attack make the over on 2.5 passing touchdowns an enticing proposition. With Colorado's offense averaging 32.4 points per game and Sanders' knack for finding the end zone, expect him to continue his impressive form against a Utah team struggling with injuries and offensive inconsistencies.
Micah Bernard Over 80.5 Rushing Yards -114 (FanDuel)
Micah Bernard has been a consistent performer for the Utah Utes, leading their rushing attack with 78 yards on 17 carries in their narrow loss to BYU. Despite Utah's offensive struggles, Bernard's ability to gain yardage on the ground remains a bright spot. With Utah's quarterback situation in flux due to injuries, the Utes are likely to lean heavily on their rushing game to control the clock and keep Colorado's potent offense off the field. Bernard's average of 4.6 yards per carry and his role as the primary back make the over on 80.5 rushing yards a solid bet, especially against a Colorado defense that, while improved, can still be exploited on the ground.