In just the second year under Deion Sanders, Colorado has emerged as a surprising contender for a College Football Playoff run that many wouldn’t have predicted back in August. With a dynamic duo like quarterback Shedeur Sanders and Heisman favorite Travis Hunter leading the charge, the Buffaloes have turned heads and are making a strong case for postseason play. Their recent performance, highlighted by a convincing victory over Texas Tech, marks their third consecutive win and has fans buzzing with excitement.
Colorado’s Path to the Playoff
As it stands, the Buffaloes are not yet in the 12-team playoff picture, but they have a clear path to change that fate in the coming weeks. Currently ranked No. 17 in the second College Football Playoff poll released on November 12, Colorado has climbed three spots from No. 20. This upward trajectory is crucial, especially as they sit second in the Big 12 standings, just behind the No. 6-ranked BYU, who boasts an impressive 6-0 record.
The next few games will be pivotal for Colorado. If they can secure victories in their final three conference matchups against Utah, Kansas, and Oklahoma State, they would set themselves up for a showdown with the Cougars in the Big 12 Championship. The stakes couldn’t be higher, as the winner of that matchup would earn an automatic bid to the College Football Playoff as a Group of Five qualifier.
Current College Football Playoff Rankings
As the playoff picture continues to evolve, it’s essential to keep an eye on the current rankings. Here’s a look at the top teams after Week 11:
| Ranking | Team | Record |
| 1 | Oregon | 10-0 |
| 2 | Ohio State | 8-1 |
| 3 | Texas | 8-1 |
| 4 | Penn State | 8-1 |
| 5 | Indiana | 10-0 |
| 6 | BYU | 9-0 |
| 7 | Tennessee | 8-1 |
| 8 | Notre Dame | 8-1 |
| 9 | Miami | 9-1 |
| 10 | Alabama | 7-2 |
| 11 | Ole Miss | 8-2 |
| 12 | Georgia | 7-2 |
With the new 12-team bracket format in play, the excitement surrounding the postseason is palpable. Fans are eager to see how the rankings will shake out as teams vie for a coveted spot in the playoffs.
Colorado’s Playoff Bracket Projection
Currently, Colorado would be projected on the outside looking in when it comes to the 12-team bracket. However, with three crucial weeks remaining in the season, there is still plenty of time for the Buffaloes to make their mark. The official selection show is set for December 8, and anticipation is building for the final rankings.
According to the latest projections from The Sporting News, here are the potential playoff seeds after Week 11:
| Seed | Team | Record |
| 1 | Oregon | 10-0 |
| 2 | Texas | 8-1 |
| 3 | BYU | 9-0 |
| 4 | Miami | 9-1 |
| 5 | Ohio State | 8-1 |
| 6 | Penn State | 8-1 |
| 7 | Tennessee | 8-1 |
| 8 | Indiana | 10-0 |
| 9 | Notre Dame | 8-1 |
| 10 | Alabama | 7-2 |
| 11 | Ole Miss | 8-2 |
| 12 | Boise State | 8-1 |
The Buffaloes’ Rising Momentum
The Buffaloes have been steadily climbing the ranks, and their recent performances have only fueled the excitement. With each game, the confidence of the players and coaching staff grows, and the prospect of a playoff run becomes more tangible. The combination of Shedeur Sanders’ leadership and Travis Hunter’s electrifying playmaking ability has created a buzz around the program that hasn’t been felt in years.
Fans are rallying behind the team, and the atmosphere in Boulder is electric. The support from the community is palpable, and as the Buffaloes gear up for their final stretch of the season, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Can they maintain their winning momentum and secure a spot in the playoffs? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: the journey has been thrilling, and the potential for greatness is within reach.
With the College Football Playoff looming, all eyes will be on Colorado as they strive to turn their dreams into reality. The excitement is building, and the Buffaloes are ready to make their mark on the national stage. Will they rise to the occasion? The countdown to the postseason has begun!
