3 reasons why Deion Sanders' Colorado Buffaloes could beat UCF Knights in Week 5

The Colorado Buffaloes (3-1) have gotten off to a strong start to the 2024 college football season. Deion Sanders' squad was able to kick off their season with a victory over the FCS-level North Dakota State Bison. After falling to the Nebraska Cornhuskers in their second game of the season, they responded with a blowout victory over the Colorado State Rams.

In their first conference matchup since rejoining the Big 12 after spending the previous 13 years in the Pac-12, Colorado pulled off an incredible come-from-behind victory against the Baylor Bears last weekend. They visit the undefeated UCF Knights (3-0) next in Week 5.

Here's a closer look at three reasons why the Buffaloes could hand their opponent their first loss of the season.

3 reasons why Colorado Buffaloes could beat UCF Knights in Week 5

#1. Travis Hunter

Travis Hunter has made a strong case that he is the best player in college football. The two-way star may even be the best player in the nation at both wide receiver and cornerback. The five-star prospect in the 2022 recruiting class has recorded 472 receiving yards and five touchdowns on 37 receptions. Furthermore, he has had at least 100 receiving yards in each of Colorado's first four games.

Hunter has also shined on the defensive end, recording 14 total tackles (nine of which were solo tackles), one tackle for loss, one interception, one game-winning forced fumble and two passes defended. Expect Hunter to continue making a case to join Charles Woodson as the only defensive player to win the Heisman Trophy.

#2. Shedeur Sanders

Shedeur Sanders has also been great in the early portion of the season so far. The three-star prospect in the 2021 recruiting class is touted to be selected in the top five of the 2025 NFL draft. In his first four games this season, Sanders has thrown for 1,340 yards and 11 touchdowns for just two interceptions. Furthermore, he completed 67.9% of his passes while adding a rushing touchdown. Look for him to continue playing well against the Knights.

#3. Winning the turnover battle

While the Colorado Buffaloes lost the turnover battle in their season opener, they were able to get past their FCS opponent. They once again lost the turnover battle against Nebraska and suffered their first loss of the season.

Deion Sanders' team has responded by winning the turnover battle in each of the past two weeks. Taking care of the football and forcing turnovers could prove to be pivotal in this matchup.

Can the Buffaloes hand the Knights their first defeat of the season? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.