The Colorado Buffaloes finished the 2025 campaign with a 3‑9 overall record and a winless 1‑8 mark in Big 12 play, a result that left the program searching for a spark heading into the next season.
A New Coaching Era
Head coach Deion Sanders has overhauled the staff and brought in more than 40 transfers, reshaping the roster with the aim of restoring competitiveness.
The 2026 slate opens with a marquee showdown against Georgia Tech, a game that will set the tone for a schedule that also includes tests from Texas Tech, Utah and Arizona State.
Early projections suggest the Buffs could start 2‑1 in those first three contests, but the real test will come in the final stretch against Houston, Cincinnati and UCF, games that will decide bowl eligibility.
Bowl Outlook
A 6‑6 finish is considered plausible, and the team’s ability to pull off victories over any of the mentioned opponents could turn that projection into reality.
Quarterback Julian Lewis is being counted on to anchor the offense, with his development seen as the linchpin for any chance at a winning record.
With the new coaching staff in place and a roster bolstered by experienced transfers, Colorado hopes to translate early optimism into consistent performance on the field.