Team Information
Ground | Folsom Field |
City | Boulder, Colorado |
Conference | Big 12, |
Nickname | Buffaloes |
About Colorado Buffaloes Football
Colorado Buffaloes football, a proud representative of the University of Colorado Boulder, has a rich history dating back to its inception in 1890. Competing at the highest level of college football in NCAA Division I FBS, the Buffaloes are a prominent member of the Pac-12 Conference. Under the leadership of Athletic Director Rick George and Head Coach Deion Sanders, this team exemplifies the spirit of Boulder, Colorado.
The Buffaloes call a natural grass field home and carry the hopes of their passionate fan base. Their presence in the Pac-12 Conference ensures fierce competition and exciting matchups each season. From the scenic location in Boulder, they strive for excellence in every game they play, living up to the proud legacy of Colorado Buffaloes football.
Name of Team | Colorado Buffaloes |
First Season | 1890 |
Athletic Director | Rick George |
Head Coach | Deion Sanders |
1st season, 2–0 (1.000) | |
Stadium | Folsom Field |
(Capacity: 50,183[1]) | |
Year Built | 1924[1] |
Field Surface | Natural Grass |
Location | Boulder, Colorado |
NCAA Division | Division I FBS |
Conference | Pac-12 |
Past Conferences | Independent (1890–1892, 1905) |
CFA (1893–1904, 1906–1908) | |
RMAC (1909–1937) | |
Skyline (1938–1947) | |
Big Eight (1948–1995) | |
Big 12 (1996–2010) | |
All-time Record | 716–520–36 (.577) |
Bowl Record | 12–17 (.414) |
Claimed National Titles | 1 (1990) |
Conference Titles | 26 |
Division Titles | 5 (4 Big 12 North, 1 Pac-12 South) |
Rivalries | Nebraska (rivalry) |
Colorado State (rivalry) | |
Kansas State (rivalry) | |
Utah (rivalry) | |
Heisman Winners | 1 |
Consensus All-Americans | 30 (5 unanimous) |
Current Uniform Colors | Silver, black, and gold |
Fight Song | Fight CU |
Mascot | Ralphie |
Colorado Buffaloes Football Introduction
The Colorado Buffaloes football program, representing the University of Colorado Boulder, has a storied history dating back to its first season in 1890. They compete at the highest level of college football in NCAA Division I FBS. The Buffaloes are a proud member of the Pac-12 Conference, with a rich history that includes membership in the Big 12 and other conferences.
Their home turf is the iconic Folsom Field, which was built in 1924 and has a capacity of 50,183 passionate fans. The field boasts a natural grass surface, providing a classic football experience. Located in the beautiful city of Boulder, Colorado, the Buffaloes have a strong tradition of success, with an all-time record of 716–520–36, including a claimed national championship in 1990.
Their fierce rivalries with teams like Nebraska, Colorado State, Kansas State, and Utah add extra excitement to their seasons. With Heisman winners, numerous All-Americans, and the beloved mascot Ralphie, the Colorado Buffaloes football program continues to captivate fans with its rich history and commitment to excellence on the gridiron.
Colorado Buffaloes Football History
The history of Colorado Buffaloes football spans over 135 years, dating back to its beginnings in 1890. Over this time, the Buffaloes have achieved remarkable success on the gridiron.
They've made their presence known in the college football world with appearances in 28 bowl games, although their record in these contests stands at 12 wins and 16 losses.
Additionally, they've clinched an impressive 27 conference championships and 5 division championships. The pinnacle of their achievements was reaching the top spot in the AP national rankings in 1990.
Folsom Field, their hallowed home ground since 1924, has witnessed many thrilling victories, contributing to a commendable 308–169–14 record through the 2016 season. Notably, the Buffaloes' 1,100th football game took place in a memorable road clash against the Nebraska Cornhuskers on November 24, 2006, while the historic 1,200th game unfolded on September 12, 2015, against Massachusetts.
This illustrious history is a testament to the enduring legacy of Colorado Buffaloes football, a program marked by a commitment to excellence and a tradition of success.
Colorado Buffaloes Football Coach
The history of Colorado Buffaloes football is intertwined with the coaching prowess of several individuals who have left their mark on the program over the years. With 11 coaches leading the team to postseason bowl games, the Buffaloes have seen their fair share of success.
Notably, Bill McCartney stands out as the all-time leader in games coached (153), total wins (93), and conference wins (58). Under his guidance, the Buffaloes clinched the national championship in 1990, marking a pinnacle in the program's history. Fred Folsom held the head coach position for an impressive 15 seasons, showcasing his enduring commitment to the team.
While some coaches enjoyed brief but impactful tenures, like Mike MacIntyre, who led Colorado to a successful season in 2016, others, like McCartney, left a lasting legacy. Despite their accomplishments, no Colorado coach has been inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame, though McCartney earned a place in the Orange Bowl Hall of Fame in 1996.
In 2022, Deion Sanders took over as the head coach, injecting new energy and vision into the Colorado Buffaloes football program. The coaching history of the Buffaloes continues to evolve as they strive for excellence on the gridiron.
Tenure | Coach |
1937- 1956 | Bunny Oakes |
1956- 1961 | Dallas Ward |
1961- 1967 | Sonny Grandelius |
1967- 1972 | Eddie Crowder |
1975- 1976 | Bill Mallory |
1985-1994 | Bill McCartney |
1995-1998 | Rick Neuheisel |
1999-2004 | Gary Barnett |
2005-2007 | Mike Hankwitz |
2007-2016 | Dan Hawkins |
2016-2020 | Mike MacIntyre |
2020-Present | Karl Dorrell |
Colorado Buffaloes Football Stadium: Folsom Field
Folsom Field, an outdoor college football stadium in the western United States, sits on the University of Colorado campus in Boulder. It's where the Colorado Buffaloes from the Pac-12 Conference play their home games. This stadium was around for nearly a century, opening in 1924. It's shaped like a horseshoe and faces north in the traditional way. At the north end, you'll spot the CU athletic administration center, named in honor of coach Dal Ward from the 1950s.
In 1999, they brought back natural grass to the playing field. Folsom Field is high up, sitting at 5,360 feet (1,630 m) above sea level, over a mile high. Among FBS college football stadiums, it's the third-highest, with only Wyoming and Air Force from the Mountain West Conference reaching higher elevations. It's a special place for the Colorado Buffaloes and their fans.
Colorado Buffaloes Football Rivals
The Colorado Buffaloes have fierce rivals that add excitement and intensity to their football seasons.
First, there's the age-old rivalry with the Nebraska Cornhuskers, dating back to the late 19th century. Bill McCartney reignited this fiery competition in the 1980s, considering Nebraska a benchmark. In recent years, Colorado clinched thrilling victories, including a comeback win in 2019, but Nebraska still holds the series lead at 49–21–2 through 2023.
Then, there's the Rocky Mountain Showdown against the Colorado State Rams, their in-state rivals just 45 miles away in Fort Collins. Bragging rights are at stake in this annual showdown for the Centennial Cup. Colorado currently leads the series 67–22–2.
Lastly, there's the Rumble in the Rockies against the Utah Utes, a rivalry reignited in 2011 when both teams joined the Pac-12. The series is tight, with Utah leading 34-32-3 through 2022.
These rivalries make each game a battle for pride and supremacy, adding intensity and drama to the Colorado Buffaloes' football season.
Colorado Buffaloes Football Record and stats
National Championships
Colorado won one national championship in football in 1990.
Season | Coach | Selectors | Record | Bowl | Result | Final AP | Final Coaches |
1990 | Bill McCartney | AP, Berryman, Billingsley, DeVold, FACT, FB News, Football Research, FW, Matthews, NCF, NFF, Sporting News, USA/CNN | 11–1–1 | Orange | W 10–9 | No. 1 | No. 2 |
Conference Championships
Year | Conference | Coach | Overall Record | Conference Record |
1894 | Colorado Football Association | Harry Heller | 8–1 | 5–0 |
1895 | Fred Folsom | 5–1 | 3–0 | |
1896 | 5–0 | 2–0 | ||
1897 | 7–1 | 2–0 | ||
1901 | 5–1–1 | 2–0 | ||
1902 | 5–1 | 4–0 | ||
1903 | Dave Cropp | 8–2 | 4–0 | |
1909 | Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference | Fred Folsom | 6–0 | 3–0 |
1910 | 6–0 | 3–0 | ||
1911 | 6–0 | 4–0 | ||
1913 | 5–1–1 | 3–0–1 | ||
1923 | Myron E. Witham | 9–0 | 7–0 | |
1924 | 8–1–1 | 5–0–1 | ||
1934 | Bill Saunders | 6–1–2 | 6–1 | |
1935 | Bunny Oakes | 5–4 | 5–1 | |
1937 | 8–1 | 7–0 | ||
1939 | Mountain States Conference | 5–3 | 5–1 | |
1942 | James J. Yeager | 7–2 | 5–1 | |
1943 | 5–2 | 2–0 | ||
1944 | Frank Potts | 6–2 | 2–0 | |
1961 | Big Eight Conference | Sonny Grandelius | 9–2 | 7–0 |
1976† | Bill Mallory | 8–4 | 5–2 | |
1989 | Bill McCartney | 11–1 | 7–0 | |
1990 | 11–1–1 | 7–0 | ||
1991† | 8–3–1 | 6–0–1 | ||
2001 | Big 12 Conference | Gary Barnett | 10–3 | 7–1 |
Division Championships
Year | Division | Coach | Opponent | CG Result |
2001† | Big 12 North | Gary Barnett | Texas | W 39–37 |
2002 | Oklahoma | L 7–29 | ||
2004† | Oklahoma | L 3–42 | ||
2005 | Texas | L 3–70 | ||
2016 | Pac-12 South | Mike MacIntyre | Washington | L 10–41 |
Colorado Buffaloes Football Roster
The Colorado Buffaloes' football roster for the 2023 season is a talented bunch, ready to represent the proud tradition of Colorado Buffaloes football. They'll compete fiercely in the Pac-12 Conference, wearing iconic black, silver, and gold colors.
On the offensive side, we have skilled quarterbacks like C. Allen and G. Kuld, along with running backs like C. Sarem and wide receivers like T. Dawson. These athletes aim to score touchdowns and make the Buffaloes proud. They'll be backed up by a robust offensive line, protecting the quarterback and opening lanes for the running game.
Defensively, the Buffaloes are ready to rumble with players like T. Alston on the defensive end, S. Cokes on the defensive line, D. Harris at linebacker, and B. Keith in the cornerback position. Their goal is to stop opposing offenses in their tracks and make game-changing plays through agile defensive backs.
Special team players, including kickers and punters, are also part of the squad, ensuring all aspects of the game are covered.
Each player brings unique talents and dedication to the team, aiming for success in the 2023 season. With this talented roster, the Colorado Buffaloes are again geared up to make their mark in college football.
Colorado Buffaloes Football Schedule
The 2023 Colorado Buffaloes football schedule is packed with exciting matchups, promising an action-packed season for fans of the Colorado Buffaloes.
The Buffaloes started on September 2, 2023, with a thrilling win against TCU, scoring 45-42. This victory set the tone for a promising season, giving them a 1-0 record. On September 9, they faced their fierce rivals, Nebraska, and emerged victorious with a score of 36-14, pushing their record to 2-0.
The upcoming games feature more exciting battles, including a showdown with Colorado State on September 16 at Folsom Field. The Buffaloes will also take on Oregon, USC, Arizona State, Stanford, UCLA, Oregon State, Arizona, Washington State, and Utah in the coming weeks. These matchups will test the Buffaloes' mettle and determination as they strive for success in the Pac-12 Conference.
With a mix of home and away games, the Colorado Buffaloes are ready to give their all and make their fans proud. It's a season full of potential, and fans can't wait to see their beloved Colorado Buffaloes in action.
FAQs
A. The Colorado Buffaloes won their last national championship in football in 1990.
A. The Colorado Buffaloes have won a total of 27 conference championships.
A. As of my knowledge cutoff date is September 2021, Karl Dorrell was the head coach. Please verify the current head coach for 2023.
A. Folsom Field has a seating capacity of 50,183.
A. The all-time record of the Colorado Buffaloes football program is 716 wins, 520 losses, and 36 ties, with a winning percentage of .577.