Colorado Buffs lose to Arizona State, extending road losing streak to nine games

Colorado football lost 20-10 to Arizona State on Saturday night at Mountain America Stadium in Tempe, Ariz. The defeat marked the ninth consecutive Big 12 road loss for the Buffs. With three games left on the schedule, the team must win all of them to become eligible for a postseason bowl game. They are projected to be underdogs in each of those remaining matchups.

Head coach Deion Sanders said the team has to do better after the loss. Sanders, who earns a $10 million salary, expressed frustration with the outcome. He stated that the team is coming up short in close games and that this season does not align with his expectations. He emphasized that he is not a loser and that the current situation is not how it is supposed to be.

Sanders is 19-27 in his overall career. His record is 6-16 in his last 22 games and 3-16 against Power Four conference teams since December 2024. The loss to Arizona State dropped his November record to 3-10. This was his first win in the month during his tenure at Colorado.

The Buffs struggled offensively in the first half. They did not record their first first down until seven minutes remained in the second quarter. The team went 0-for-8 on third and fourth down during the first two quarters. Elliott Arnold kicked a 39-yard field goal to prevent a shutout late in the third quarter. Joseph Williams scored a touchdown in the fourth quarter after a penalty extended the drive.

Arizona State quarterback Jake Fette completed seven of his first eight passes for 101 yards and a touchdown. The true freshman connected with wide receiver Omarion Miller, a former Colorado player, and Reed Harris. Arizona State coach Kenny Dillingham has not lost back-to-back conference games since 2024. He is 15-3 in his last 18 home contests.

The loss adds to a series of issues for the program. Over the last six weeks, the team has faced criticism for roster management, jersey number errors, and special teams depth. The athletic department projected a $27 million deficit for the fiscal year ending in 2026. Sanders signed a five-year, $54 million contract extension in March of 2025.

Sanders told reporters he is not worried about his job security. He said he is focused on helping players graduate and making a difference in their lives. He acknowledged that the team is playing hard but noted that the effort has not yet translated into wins. He said the team must win out to justify the season.