Shilo Sanders return update: Latest news on Colorado Safety before Big 12 blockbuster

The good news for Colorado is that safety Shilo Sanders is expected to return after missing the last three games due to a forearm injury that required surgery. Kansas State is coming to Boulder for the first time since 2010, and Buffaloes is back in the Big 12, ready to make a statement.

The No. 18 Kansas State (4-1, 1-1 Big 12) will face Colorado (4-1, 2-0) this Saturday at 10:25 p.m. ET on ESPN. A win here could cement the Buffaloes' growing reputation, both in the Big 12 and nationals.

Shilo suffered the injury during a loss to Nebraska on September 7, but his dad and coach, Deion Sanders, confirmed Tuesday that he's ready to go.

"Shilo's ready. He's practicing. He's full go," Deion Sanders said. "Has a rubber cast on. He's doing his thing. I can't wait to see him back there."

Last season, Shilo was a reckoning force on defense, leading the team with 70 tackles and four forced fumbles, earning him a second-team All-Pac-12 selection. Before his injury this year, he had already racked up 11 tackles in just two games.

Colorado enters this game undefeated in the Big 12 play, one of five teams in the conference without a league loss. The Buffaloes barely escaped a tough Baylor squad but followed that up with a dominant 48-21 win over UCF in Week 5. With Shilo back on defense, they’re looking to keep that momentum rolling.

Following Shilo Sanders' injury, the Buffaloes have persevered

Since Shilo Sanders' injury, the Buffaloes have pushed through, defeating Colorado State, Baylor, and UCF, bringing their record to 4-1. While Shilo remains the final missing piece in their starting defense, Colorado’s next challenge is just as tough. After handling the Big 12’s top rushing offense in UCF, they now face Kansas State, which boasts the second-best run game in the conference.

Both teams are coming off a bye, giving them time to recharge. The game kicks off late at 10:15 p.m. ET, and it's a crucial matchup for Kansas State, which already dropped a conference game to BYU.

Meanwhile, the Buffaloes have had a strong return to the Big 12 play with a gritty overtime win against Baylor, followed by a victory at UCF. The stage is set for another thrilling showdown at Folsom Field.