Shedeur Sanders’ late-game heroics, highlighted by a stunning 43-yard Hail Mary to LaJohntay Wester, propelled Colorado to a thrilling 38-31 victory over Baylor on a drizzly Saturday night. With no time left on the clock, Sanders showcased his poise under pressure, demonstrating why he is regarded as a rising star in college football.
In overtime, Micah Welch’s short touchdown run marked the Buffaloes’ first lead since the opening quarter. The game took a dramatic turn when Travis Hunter, a standout two-way player, forced a critical fumble at the goal line, causing the ball to roll out of the end zone. The electrified crowd rushed the field, tearing down a goal post, as officials confirmed the call.
On that pivotal final play of regulation, Sanders rolled left and delivered a perfectly placed pass to Wester, who skillfully evaded his defender. As Wester cradled the ball and fell to the ground, officials reviewed the catch and upheld it, allowing Alejandro Mata to kick the extra point that sent the game into overtime.
This dramatic finish came just days before the 30th anniversary of the legendary “Miracle at Michigan,” when the Buffaloes triumphed over the Wolverines with Kordell Stewart’s iconic 64-yard Hail Mary to Michael Westbrook. Remarkably, the broadcast featured a replay of that historic moment just moments before Sanders’ game-winning throw.
Baylor’s Hal Presley made a spectacular one-handed catch for a 24-yard touchdown with 5:43 left in the game, briefly giving the Bears the lead. However, their hopes for victory were dashed when Isaiah Hankins’ 45-yard field goal attempt went wide right.
Sanders’ performance was nothing short of remarkable, finishing the game with 341 passing yards. Hunter also shone brightly, recording seven receptions for 130 yards, solidifying his role as a key player for the Buffaloes.
Baylor made several explosive plays throughout the game, including Jamaal Bell’s impressive 100-yard kickoff return. Quarterback Sawyer Robertson contributed significantly, throwing two touchdown passes and executing a crucial fourth-and-1 play from the 45-yard line.
With this victory, the Buffaloes celebrated a successful return to Big 12 Conference play after leaving the league in 2010 to join the Pac-12. Their performance against Baylor marks a promising start to their renewed journey in the conference.
