Nightcap Crew Recap Highs and Lows of Colorado’s 31-28 Loss to Kansas State [Video]

The Colorado Buffaloes faced a crushing defeat at home, falling to Kansas State 31-28 in a thrilling game that came down to the wire. Colorado played without its three top receivers, a setback that added to the drama, especially after a controversial no-call on pass interference sealed their fate in the closing moments.

NFL legends Shannon Sharpe and Chad Ochocinco weighed in on the Buffaloes’ performance, highlighting the positives amid the loss.

“All three [receivers] going down and being behind the eight ball so early in the game and still being in it toward the end—obviously, defense is a concern, not being able to get a stop when it was needed most,” Ochocinco told Sharpe. “But having three of your top receivers down and still being in the game is a testament to Shedeur Sanders and some key defensive series that kept them alive. If this were the old Colorado, the game would’ve been over a long time ago.”

Ochocinco praised the defense for giving the offense and Sanders a chance to compete despite missing key players. Sharpe echoed this sentiment, noting that the loss should be seen as a learning experience and a sign of improvement.

“Listen, I’m not saying it’s good they lost, but I do see the progress. They’re getting better and still competing even without some of the top dogs, even in a loss,” Ochocinco added.

The loss ended Colorado’s three-game winning streak, but the bigger concern is the injury to star player Travis Hunter, who left the game with a shoulder injury. As the team eyes a Big 12 title, Hunter’s health will be critical to their success.

Sharpe also expressed frustration with the Buffaloes’ inability to stop Kansas State’s rushing attack, which racked up nearly 200 yards on the ground.

“Ocho, they couldn’t stop the run in the first three quarters. They did better late in the game, but you can’t let a team run on you like that. I don’t care what level of football it is—if you can’t stop the run, you can’t win,” Sharpe said. “And early on, they were bringing pressure on Shedeur. Late in the game, it was just four-man pressure.”

The offensive line remains a concern for Colorado as they continue to navigate one of the toughest conferences in college football. Next up, Deion Sanders and the Buffaloes will be on the road to face the Arizona Wildcats on Saturday afternoon.