Colorado Upsets Iowa State 24-17 in Thrilling Big 12 Matchup

On October 11, 2025, the No. 22 Iowa State Cyclones faced the Colorado Buffaloes in a crucial Big 12 matchup at Folsom Field in Boulder. Colorado, led by head coach Deion Sanders, secured a 24-17 upset over the ranked Cyclones, marking their first Big 12 win of the season and snapping a two-game losing streak. The Buffaloes started strong, opening the scoring with an eight-yard touchdown run by Micah Welch to cap a 12-play, 90-yard drive. Iowa State responded with a 38-yard field goal from Chase Smith and a one-yard touchdown by Abu Sama III, taking a 10-7 lead into halftime after a quick, efficient drive led by quarterback Rocco Becht. Colorado’s offense found its rhythm in the third quarter. Kaidon Salter connected with Omarion Miller for a 70-yard touchdown, regaining the lead. Sama answered for Iowa State with his second short rushing score, but Salter’s three-yard touchdown pass to Joseph Williams put Colorado ahead 21-17 by the end of the third. In the fourth quarter, the Buffaloes’ defense stepped up. Defensive back Tawfiq Byard intercepted Becht in the red zone, halting a potential Cyclones scoring drive. Colorado then extended their lead with a 29-yard field goal by Alejandro Mata. Key defensive stops on third and fourth downs sealed the win, as Iowa State failed to convert crucial opportunities late in the game. Statistically, Iowa State outgained Colorado with 441 total yards to 395, including 233 rushing yards, but turned the ball over once and struggled on third downs (2/12). Salter finished with 255 passing yards and two touchdowns for the Buffaloes, while Joseph Williams led all receivers with 128 yards and a touchdown. Abu Sama III paced Iowa State with 177 rushing yards and two scores. This result was significant for Colorado, giving them their first Power 4 conference win under Sanders and boosting morale after consecutive losses. For Iowa State, the defeat damaged their hopes for a Big 12 title game appearance, dropping them to 5-2 (2-2 Big 12). Historically, the programs have a competitive series. Since their first meeting in 1947, Iowa State holds a slight edge, but this win adds to Colorado’s resurgence under Sanders. Looking ahead, both teams will need to address inconsistencies as they continue their conference schedules. For more details and highlights, visit the ESPN game recap or follow Buffaloes Wire on X for ongoing coverage.