2024 was their year and now going into 2025 we have major concerns.
2025 Season Preview: Predicting the Colorado Buffaloes' Performance originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
With the college football season just six weeks away, anticipation is building around how the Colorado Buffaloes will respond following a 2024 campaign that ultimately fell short of rising expectations. Under head coach Deion Sanders, Colorado made noticeable progress, finishing 9-3 overall and 7-2 in Big 12 play. However, losses to Kansas State and Kansas ended their hopes for a conference title. Now, entering the 2025 season without quarterback Shedeur Sanders and Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter, the Buffaloes face major questions on both sides of the ball.
The departure of Sanders leaves a leadership void on offense, while Hunter’s absence strips Colorado of a generational two-way talent. Replacing them won’t be easy, but the Buffaloes are turning the page.
A New Era Under Center
Stepping into the spotlight is sophomore quarterback Jalen Martin, a highly regarded four-star recruit. While untested in game action, he’s shown promise in spring practice with his arm strength and poise. With a tough early schedule, including matchups against Nebraska and TCU, Martin will need to grow up fast.
Offensive coordinator Sean Lewis will retain his up-tempo, pass-first philosophy but aims for more balance. Wide receiver Omarion Miller, who flashed big-play potential last season, will now be the featured target with Hunter gone.
Rebuilding the Defense
On defense, linebacker Demetrius Watts leads a returning core aiming for more consistency. Transfers Jordan Mitchell (CB, Oregon) and Tyrese Johnson (S, Florida State) will step into critical roles in the secondary. Though Hunter’s game-changing presence will be missed, Colorado’s defense has the tools to stay competitive—if they can limit explosive plays that hurt them in 2024.
Navigating the Big 12
The Big 12 remains stacked with talent. Colorado’s 2025 schedule features key games against Oklahoma State, Utah, and a surging Kansas program. The margin for error is slim, but Deion Sanders has strengthened the roster through recruiting and the transfer portal.
Final Prediction
The 2025 season will test whether Colorado’s foundation is built to last. Without their biggest stars, the Buffaloes must lean on player development and depth. While a conference title may be out of reach, an 8-4 finish would represent progress—and prove that Coach Prime’s vision is more than a short-term headline.
Predicted Record: 8-4 (6-3 Big 12)
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 12, 2025, where it first appeared.
Category: General Sports
