Five Biggest Winners and Losers of Colorado vs. Kansas State - Sports Illustrated

The Colorado Buffaloes secured a hard-fought 27-24 overtime victory against the Kansas State Wildcats, showcasing crucial improvements on both sides of the ball after holding a 21-14 lead late in the fourth quarter, as reported by Sports Illustrated. The win not only broke a difficult losing streak for the program but also highlighted several standout performances and costly errors that ultimately shaped the afternoon in Boulder.

Who Were the Offensive Spark Plugs for Colorado?

Running backs JaQuail Smith and Richard Young provided the offensive punch the Buffaloes desperately needed. Smith delivered one of the game’s most explosive moments in the third quarter, breaking through the Kansas State defense for a 47-yard touchdown that put Colorado ahead 14-7. His big play demonstrated that the backfield features multiple weapons capable of altering a game’s momentum.

Colorado 27 – Kansas State 24College Football — Oct. 31, 2026Elite performers:Passing:Blake Barnett (Kansas State): 18/28, 224 yds, 3 TD, 16 rush, 40 rush ydsRushing:Richard Young (Colorado): 24 rushes, 120 yds, 2 TDReceiving:Joseph Williams (Colorado): 5 rec, 89 yds…
— https://x.com/stalterSS/status/2116669493204210100

Early in the contest, Richard Young established the tone by opening the scoring with a two-yard touchdown run in the first quarter, marking his first score as a Buffalo. That score was set up by a 22-yard run earlier on the same drive. Young finished with meaningful yardage that balanced the offensive attack and took pressure off quarterback Isaac Wilson.

How Did the Defense and Special Moments Seal the Win?

Veteran linebacker Gideon Lampron anchored the defensive effort with nine tackles, including a crucial sack that pressured the Kansas State offense and stalled drives. Lampron entered the matchup leading the team with 65 tackles on the season, and his consistent play helped contain the Wildcats throughout regulation.

When the game reached overtime, tight end Charlie Williams stepped into the hero role. Williams hauled in an 11-yard game-winning touchdown pass from Wilson, cementing the 27-24 final score and capping off the dramatic victory.

What Was the Costly Mistake That Nearly Halted the Buffaloes?

Despite the eventual win, running back DeKalon Taylor experienced a painful missed opportunity in the second quarter. After breaking loose for a 30-yard run that carried him all the way down to the Kansas State one-yard line, Taylor fumbled the football before crossing the goal line. The ball rolled through the back of the end zone for a touchback, turning a promising scoring drive into a turnover and handing possession back to the Wildcats.