WATCH: Deion Sanders fuels Colorado star Travis Hunter's heroics with hype before memorable interception vs. UCF

Travis Hunter made a crucial interception in Colorado’s Week 5 win against UCF, and Deion Sanders played a crucial role in the play. The Buffaloes secured a dominant 48-21 win over the Knights in Orlando, Florida, on Saturday despite entering the Big 12 encounter as a big underdog.

One of the game's defining moments came when Hunter intercepted a third-down pass attempt. After picking off the short pass, he celebrated by striking the iconic Heisman pose in the end zone to cap off the highlight-reel play, adding flair to an already pivotal moment in the game.

Before the moment, Colorado coach Deion Sanders spoke to Hunter, urging him to "lock in and focus" just before re-entering the game on the defense. He went on to make the interception right after that.

Deion Sanders proud of his team following the UCF win

Following the emphatic win over UCF on Saturday, Deion expressed the pride he has in his team. The coach described how his team claimed the win despite the daunting challenges that came their way.

“We worked our butts off this week," Sanders said. "We had a few distractions because of the storm (Hurricane Helene), so we had to get here early. So, that gave us really intent to focus. Because it was just with the team, no family members, no nothing.

“And we just locked in and focused. We had tremendous walk-throughs and tremendous practices. ... I am so proud of these young men, you have no idea. I'm lost for words.”

Colorado embarks on an open week in Week 6, giving them more time to prepare for the remaining conference schedule. The Buffaloes are now considered a potential contender in the highly unpredictable Big 12 this season.

Paul Finebaum impressed with Colorado's performance

ESPN's Paul Finebaum is one of the top critics of Deion Sanders and Colorado (4-1, 2-0 Big 12). However, the veteran analyst was impressed with the Buffaloes' performance in Orlando on Saturday. This probably marks the first Finebaum has expressed confidence in the program.

“This program went on the road to a tough place, a big underdog, and they dominated, and they did it effectively, and, of course, they had Travis Hunter and Shedeur (Sanders and) everything else that goes with Coach Prime,” Finebaum said.

“But they looked like a real football team rather than a gimmick. And I could not be more impressed. And for the first time, they may be a legitimate contender in their conference.”

Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter continue to maintain their importance to the team with their outstanding displays. With both playing their last seasons for CU, leaving an indelible mark on the program is the goal.