3 reasons why Deion Sanders' Colorado Buffaloes will win Week 4 matchup against Baylor
The Colorado Buffaloes are feeling good after a bounce-back win versus the Colorado State Rams in Week 3. Colorado managed to see some consistent pass protection for what feels like the first time in the Deion Sanders era. Shedeur Sanders showed his gratitude for his offensive line after the game, bringing the unit to sit in on his post-game press conference with the quarterback.
Entering Week 4, Colorado will play their first in-conference game of the season, with a matchup versus Baylor in Boulder. With Colorado entering this week as a two-point favorite, the Buffaloes are expected to notch their second-straight win versus the Bears.
Here are three keys to a Colorado victory over Baylor in Week 4:
Colorado's defense can match up with Baylor's offense
One of Colorado's biggest struggles has been on the defensive side of the ball. The Buffaloes lack depth in the trenches and are susceptible to being beaten on the ground, allowing 145.7 rushing yards per game.
While Baylor averages over 167 rushing yards per game, the Bears average just 4.1 yards per carry as a team through their first three contests. Baylor's passing attack has also struggled early in the season, with four touchdowns and two interceptions, making this a relatively even matchup between the two.
Matching up with an average offense in Baylor could allow the Buffaloes' defense to build on their momentum from their 28-9 win over Colorado State.
The Buffaloes' offense can outlast the Bears' offense
If there's one thing the Buffaloes can do, it's score points. Matching up against Baylor's defense won't be the easiest feat, but Colorado's offense is much more tailored to score points than Baylor's.
The Bears' offense couldn't maintain a track meet versus Colorado, as the Buffaloes can strike quickly and often where Baylor looks for sustained drives and holding the ball.
Even if Colorado's defense struggles, it will still be difficult for Baylor to keep up with the Buffaloes' high-powered offense.
Signs of life up front for the Buffaloes
Arguably the biggest knock against Colorado's offense has been their lackluster play on the offensive line. Last week, the Buffaloes not only protected Shedeur Sanders, allowing just one sack for the game, but they also showed the ability to move defenders in the run game.
Coming into Week 4, the Buffaloes are finally seeing signs of life from their offensive line. If they can replicate that performance even a little, Baylor's defense could be in for a tough matchup.