Will November belong to Prime? The anticipation is palpable as the college football landscape shifts, and all eyes are on the Colorado Buffaloes. With a bye week in Week 10, Colorado found itself in an advantageous position as chaos erupted in the Big 12 during Week 11. Iowa State suffered a heartbreaking 23-22 defeat against Texas Tech, while Kansas State stumbled in a surprising 24-19 loss to Houston. These results could pave the way for the Buffaloes to make a significant push in the conference.
Colorado’s Rising Status
Currently ranked No. 21 in the Sporting News Top 25 poll, Colorado stands as the third-highest ranked team in the Big 12. This is a remarkable feat for a team that was picked to finish near the bottom of the standings. Coach Deion Sanders, in his second year, has transformed the Buffaloes into a competitive force. Could this be the year they make a run for the Big 12 championship game? It’s certainly within the realm of possibility.
Key Matchups Ahead
The road ahead for Colorado is challenging but not insurmountable. The Buffaloes are gearing up to face Texas Tech in Week 11, a crucial matchup that could set the tone for the remainder of their season. If they can win out over their next four games, which is entirely feasible given the dynamic duo of Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter, they will put themselves in a strong position for the conference championship.
Meanwhile, No. 10 BYU remains unbeaten but faces a tough road test against rival Utah. Additionally, No. 20 Iowa State and No. 24 Kansas State will clash in their regular-season finale, which could further shake up the standings. The unpredictability of this season has been a hallmark of the Big 12, as promised by commissioner Brett Yormark.
The Big 12’s Unpredictable Landscape
This season has been a rollercoaster ride for many teams in the Big 12. Colorado and BYU were initially seen as long shots, picked 11th and 13th, respectively, in the preseason poll. Yet here they are, defying expectations and making waves in the conference. Arizona State, projected to finish last, boasts an impressive 6-2 record and remains in the hunt. The Big 12 has truly showcased its unpredictability, making every game a must-watch.
Upcoming College Football Playoff Rankings
As the Buffaloes prepare for their showdown with Texas Tech, they are also poised to make their presence felt in the upcoming College Football Playoff rankings. With their recent performances and the shifting dynamics in the conference, it’s likely that Colorado will be hard to miss when the rankings are released on Tuesday. Their rise through the polls is a testament to the hard work and determination of the coaching staff and players alike.
Top Teams in the Nation
While Colorado’s story is captivating, the national landscape is equally intriguing. No. 1 Oregon retained its top spot after a decisive 38-17 victory over Michigan. No. 2 Georgia also claimed a solid win against Florida, finishing 34-20. Ohio State climbed to No. 3 after a narrow 20-13 win over Penn State, which has now dropped to No. 6. Rounding out the top five are No. 4 Miami and No. 5 Texas, both of whom have been impressive this season.
Sporting News Top 25 Rankings for Week 11
As we look ahead to Week 11, here’s a closer look at the latest top 25 rankings:
| RANK | SCHOOL | RECORD | PVS | WEEK 10 RESULT |
| 1 | Oregon | 9-0 | 1 | Beat Michigan 38-17 |
| 2 | Georgia | 7-1 | 2 | Beat Florida 34-20 |
| 3 | Ohio State | 7-1 | 4 | Beat Penn State 20-13 |
| 4 | Miami, Fla. | 9-0 | 6 | Beat Duke 53-31 |
| 5 | Texas | 7-1 | 5 | Bye |
| 6 | Penn State | 7-1 | 3 | Lost to Ohio State 20-13 |
| 7 | Tennessee | 7-1 | 8 | Beat Kentucky 28-18 |
| 8 | Indiana | 9-0 | 13 | Beat Michigan State 47-10 |
| 9 | Notre Dame | 7-1 | 12 | Bye |
| 10 | BYU | 8-0 | 11 | Bye |
| 11 | Alabama | 6-2 | 15 | Bye |
| 12 | Boise State | 7-1 | 18 | Beat San Diego State 56-24 |
| 13 | SMU | 8-1 | 19 | Beat Pitt 48-25 |
| 14 | Texas A&M | 7-1 | 9 | Lost to South Carolina 44-20 |
| 15 | LSU | 6-2 | 16 | Bye |
| 16 | Army | 8-0 | 22 | Beat Air Force 20-3 |
| 17 | Ole Miss | 7-2 | 21 | Beat Arkansas 63-31 |
| 18 | Clemson | 6-2 | 7 | Lost to Louisville 33-21 |
| 19 | Iowa State | 7-1 | 10 | Lost to Texas Tech 23-22 |
| 20 | Pitt | 7-1 | 14 | Lost to SMU 48-25 |
| 21 | Colorado | 6-2 | 23 | Bye |
| 22 | Washington State | 7-1 | 24 | Bye |
| 23 | Missouri | 6-2 | 25 | Bye |
| 24 | Kansas State | 7-2 | 17 | Lost to Houston 24-19 |
| 25 | Vanderbilt | 6-3 | NR | Beat Auburn 17-7 |
As we dive deeper into November, the excitement builds. Will Colorado seize the moment and prove that they belong among the elite? The stage is set, and the Buffaloes have the chance to make history. Keep your eyes peeled; this season is far from over!
