Despite being in neighboring states, contests between the No. 24 BYU Cougars and Colorado Buffaloes have been relatively limited throughout history.
Only now, with the two teams as Big 12 rivals, will a trend develop, but so far, the Cougars are 1-0 in the modern era. BYU heads into this one as heavy favorites over the Buffaloes despite going on the road. While there’s a chance the Buffaloes shock the Cougars, here’s why BYU will continue rolling in Boulder.
Advertisement
Talking LJ and not Lebron James
Nov 16, 2024; Provo, Utah, USA; Brigham Young Cougars running back LJ Martin (27) breaks a tackle by Kansas Jayhawks linebacker Cornell Wheeler (44) during the first quarter at LaVell Edwards Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-Imagn Images
Cougars’ running back LJ Martin hasn’t finished a game in 2025 under 100 yards rushing, and with how poor the Buffaloes’ run defense has been in 2025, he’s likely headed for another century mark. Averaging a staggering 8.6 yards per carry, Martin has shown the ability to read defenses and kill them with his burst of speed. Stopping Martin should be Colorado’s number one priority in this one, but I don’t think they have the power to stop him.
The haves versus the have-nots
Sep 6, 2025; Boulder, Colorado, USA; Colorado Buffaloes running back Micah Welch (29) celebrates a touchdown with offensive lineman Xavier Hill (71) in the second half against the Delaware Fightin Blue Hens at Folsom Field. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images
Colorado will be without two of three rotational running backs, DeKalon Taylor and Simeon Price. That leaves Micah Welch and Dallan Hayden to attack the Cougars’ front-7, which is allowing 1.6 yards per rush attempt, the lowest number in the nation. The Buffaloes have thrived when they can depend on their run game, which will be missing key bodies Saturday evening.
Advertisement
Smarter than the average Bear
Aug 30, 2025; Provo, Utah, USA; Brigham Young Cougars quarterback Bear Bachmeier (47) looks to pass against the Portland State Vikings during the second quarter at LaVell Edwards Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-Imagn Images
Once quarterback Jake Reztlaff transferred out, many, including myself, wrote BYU off as a team without a leader. However, it just so happens that true freshman Stanford transfer Bear Bachmeier appears to be one of the best freshman quarterbacks in the nation. He’s looked calm and accurate through three games, playing mistake-free football that has kept his Cougars dominating teams through their first three games.
Setting the trap
Sep 20, 2025; Greenville, North Carolina, USA; Brigham Young Cougars cornerback Evan Johnson (0) runs with the ball after his interception against the East Carolina Pirates during the first half at Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: James Guillory-Imagn Images
The Cougars’ secondary changed the complexion of their last game against East Carolina with two timely interceptions. Like the Pirates, Colorado will be looking to take advantage of BYU’s corners, who gave up some explosive plays last week. If the Buffaloes’ quarterback Kaidon Salter isn’t at his best, the Courgars will waste no time feasting on him.
Advertisement
He’s spinning the ball on his finger
Aug 30, 2025; Provo, Utah, USA; The Brigham Young Cougars offense lines up against the Portland State Vikings defense during the fourth quarter at LaVell Edwards Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-Imagn Images
You know what really helps a young quarterback develop? A fantastic offensive line, and that’s exactly what the Cougars bring to the table. Through three games, Bachmeier has only hit the turf four times for relatively small losses. Combine that with a Colorado front that could be missing key pieces like Tawfiq Thomas and Keaten Wade, and there’s a recipe for a Buffaloes disaster.
Contact/Follow us @BuffaloesWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook for ongoing coverage of Colorado news, notes and opinions.
This article originally appeared on Buffaloes Wire: Colorado football vs. BYU: Reasons the Buffs could struggle
