Four takeaways from Colorado's win over UCF

Deion Sanders and Colorado pulled off one of the most notable upsets in Week 5 of the college football season. Since Colorado entered the road game against UCF as a 14-point underdog, few expected Colorado to emerge victorious, let alone dominate the Knights in their sold-out home stadium.

The Buffaloes secured a resounding victory that sent a strong message to the rest of the Big 12 and the entire college football world. This win is, in Sanders' words, a testament to how far the program has come since its dismal 1-11 record in 2022. “I feel like we're trending in the right direction,” Sanders said in the postgame press conference. “I feel like you're seeing the result of a lot of hard work, great dedication and great hires.” Here are four takeaways from CU's outstanding performance.

Travis Hunter is Heisman worthy

The key to Colorado's success was the continued outstanding performance of two-way star Travis Hunter. Entering Week 5 with the fifth-best odds for the Heisman Trophy, Hunter's performance against UCF likely improved his standing. On offense, Hunter caught nine passes for 89 yards and a touchdown, while on defense he had two solo tackles, one interception and added a pass breakup. His influence was felt in all phases of the game and after his interception, Hunter celebrated with the Heisman pose, reminding everyone why he is one of the best players in the country. However, Hunter is not yet a lock for the Heisman, as quarterbacks like Miami's Cam Ward, Alabama's Jalen Milroe and Tennessee's Nico Iamaleava remain strong contenders. Hunter must maintain his high level of play and lead Colorado to more wins to stay in the Heisman conversation.

Colorado didn't need any heroics to win

The win over UCF was arguably Deion Sanders' best as head coach of the Colorado Buffaloes. With eight wins now under their belt, none were as impressive as the win in Week 5. Not only were the Buffaloes significant underdogs, but UCF also entered the game with the second-best odds to win in the Big 12, behind only Utah. Colorado's dominance in all three phases of the game was a testament to the outstanding coaching of Sanders and his team. Despite the legendary status of UCF head coach Gus Malzahn, it was Sanders and his coordinators who outran their opponents, resulting in a decisive 27-point victory, the largest margin in a conference road game for Colorado since 2005.

Colorado could be dangerous with a steady attack

The Buffaloes' success was also fueled by an improved running game. At the start of the season, Colorado's running game seemed non-existent, but that narrative has changed. Freshman running back Micah Welch has emerged as a threat at the goal line, scoring three rushing touchdowns in the last two games. Ohio State transfer Dallan Hayden returned from injury and scored his first touchdown as a Buff, while Arkansas transfer Isaiah Augustave led the team in rushing for the second straight year. The Buffs' offensive line has improved significantly and their running backs, each with different skill sets, are getting better with each game.

The Buffs held on when they needed it

Defensively, Colorado has become an elite unit, especially when it comes to stopping the run. UCF entered the game with the nation's top-ranked rushing offense, averaging 375 rushing yards per game. However, Colorado's defense rose to the challenge, limiting the Knights to just 177 rushing yards and forcing four turnovers. The Buffs' defense, particularly in the second half of the game, was outstanding all season, allowing just 5.2 points per game after halftime. In Week 5, they recorded 13 tackles for loss and five sacks, demonstrating their ability to pressure the quarterback and disrupt offensive plays.

If Colorado can continue to play with this intensity and production, they will be a force in the Big 12, and Deion Sanders' team will only continue to trend upward.