Colorado is back in action this week after a Week 6 bye, hosting No. 11 Utah for the university's Family Weekend, with a crowd expected to be close to a sellout.
The Buffaloes are in the midst of a three-game losing streak, largely due to a struggling offense, the worst unit in the Big 12. Colorado is moving the ball and outgaining its past three opponents, but penalties, turnovers, and special-teams mistakes that lead to long fields have stunted the offense.
Deion Sanders announced at his Tuesday press conference that Utah transfer Isaac Wilson will get his second start for the Buffs as they face his former team. Wilson threw three interceptions against Texas Tech in his first start of the year but also made some impressive throws.
Should Colorado's
offense support its defense even slightly, the Buffaloes' record would be at least one, if not two, wins better. Utah is a two-touchdown road favorite Saturday night, and given the Utes' prolific offense, CU's defense will need its best performance of the year.
With just a couple of days until kickoff, here are our Buffaloes Wire staff predictions for Colorado's Week 7 matchup vs. Utah.
Ariana's Prediction
Colorado has the defense to compete with Utah, but its offense cannot keep the Buffaloes in the game. Isaac Wilson will start at quarterback again for Colorado after throwing three interceptions against Texas Tech two weeks ago. Utah, meanwhile, has solidified its quarterback position with Devon Dampier, who has thrown only two interceptions all season. Their running back went off against Kansas last week and could wear Colorado's defense down late in the game. Utah is a well-rounded team and perhaps the best in the Big 12. Colorado lacks the offensive attack and weapons to compete with the Utes for 60 minutes.
Score: Utah 34, Colorado 10
Charlie's Prediction
Colorado's defense has historically struggled to contain mobile quarterbacks and hasn't faced one this year. Look no further than last season's Utah game, when the Utes' quarterback, Byrd Fickin, rushed for 151 yards and a touchdown. If the improved Buffs defense can't slow down Dampier or Ficklin, both outstanding runners, it will be a long night in Boulder. Colorado has improved from last year despite the losing streak, and playing at home should help the Buffs, but Utah is a better and more efficient team. I expect a closer first half with Utah pulling away late.
Score: Utah 38, Colorado 17
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This article originally appeared on Buffaloes Wire: Colorado vs. Utah score predictions, expert picks for Week 7 matchup
