In a twist of fate on Friday night at Folsom Field, Stanford University transformed a 29-point halftime deficit into an exhilarating 46-43 double-overtime victory against Colorado University (CU). Despite CU’s significant lead, Stanford’s tenacity led them to score consistently in the second half, eventually tying the game.
Stanford’s Triumphant Rally
Stanford’s quarterback, Ashton Daniels, was the shining star, putting up a whopping 396 yards and four touchdowns, with the majority earned after halftime. Joshua Karty’s 31-yard field goal after intercepting a pass from Shedeur Sanders sealed the victory in the second overtime. CU, once leading 29-0, was left reeling as Stanford celebrated its most significant comeback in the team’s history.
Folsom Field’s audience, initially over 53,000 strong, watched in stunned silence as Stanford celebrated their comeback, reminiscent of CU’s collapse against Kansas in 2010.
Deion Sanders, Colorado football head coach, expressed his disbelief, stating, “I don’t remember being up 29-0 and losing a football game.” Sanders added that it was a harsh lesson for the team.
Cracks in CU’s Armor
Despite having six nationally televised games under their belt, CU seemed to unravel during the match. The root of their downfall? Penalties. The Buffs committed a staggering 17 penalties, costing them 127 yards. This, combined with coverage errors, missed tackles, and a pivotal 97-yard touchdown by Stanford’s Elic Ayomanor, marked the beginning of CU’s downfall.
Ayomanor’s standout performance comprised of 13 catches, 294 yards, and three touchdowns, adding salt to CU’s wounds.
However, not all was bleak for CU. Travis Hunter, returning from an injury, managed 13 catches for 140 yards, scoring two touchdowns. But his performance was marred by fatigue and a key penalty in the fourth quarter.
CU’s Future in the Balance
With their recent loss, CU’s chances at a bowl game have become uncertain. With upcoming games against four top-ranked teams, CU faces an uphill battle. Coach Sanders stressed the importance of moving forward, saying, “We have no choice but to go forward because that’s life.” It’s now up to CU to rally and overcome this setback, as they continue their journey under the watchful eyes of their supporters.