Colorado vs. Texas Tech College Football Week 11 Picks: Can the Buffaloes Cover?

Colorado Dominated Cincinnati

Shedeur Sanders connected with Travis Hunter for two touchdown passes and ran one in himself, leading Colorado to a 34-23 victory over Cincinnati on October 26 and securing bowl eligibility.

Sanders was sharp, completing 25 of 30 passes for 323 yards and setting a program record by completing his first 15 throws. Impressively, he did this while recovering from the flu.

Hunter showcased his skills on both sides of the ball, catching nine passes for 153 yards, including a crucial 34-yard touchdown with just three seconds remaining in the first half. On defense, the Heisman hopeful and two-way standout broke up four passes, further proving his impact.

This win makes Colorado eligible for a bowl game for a full season for the first time since 2016, marking a significant improvement in Year 2 under Sanders. The Buffaloes, who finished last season at 4-8 after a promising start, are enjoying a marked resurgence.

A pivotal moment came right before halftime when Colorado’s defense stopped Cincinnati quarterback Brendan Sorsby on a 4th and 1 at midfield with 33 seconds left, setting up Sanders’ touchdown pass to an open Hunter, giving Colorado a 24-14 lead at the break.

Texas Tech Upset Iowa State

In a tight battle between Texas Tech and Iowa State, Behren Morton led the Red Raiders on a 71-yard game-winning drive, culminating in a five-yard touchdown run by Tahj Brooks with 19 seconds left. This 23-22 victory spoiled Iowa State’s chance for its best season start.

Brooks powered through with 25 carries for 122 yards, surpassing 4,000 career yards and achieving his ninth consecutive 100-yard game this season. The Red Raiders bounced back from back-to-back losses to Baylor and TCU.

Despite battling an injury to his left shoulder from the previous game, Morton threw for 237 yards, completing 21 of 40 passes with two touchdowns but was intercepted twice. Texas Tech overcame three false starts on their final drive, with Morton converting a crucial 4th and 7 pass to Josh Kelly.

Brooks then sealed the win with a direct-snap score, marking Texas Tech’s fourth consecutive year of bowl eligibility and their third under coach Joey McGuire.

Key Matchups

Colorado, led by Sanders’ pinpoint accuracy and the dynamic two-way talents of Hunter, has been finding ways to outlast opponents and strike at critical moments. Texas Tech, coming off a thrilling comeback victory over Iowa State, leans on the resilience of Morton and the consistency of Brooks to fuel their offense.

With both teams aiming to finish strong, this game could hinge on whose stars shine brightest.

Shedeur Sanders vs. Texas Tech’s Pass Defense

Sanders has been remarkably efficient, completing over 80% of his passes against Cincinnati. His ability to deliver under pressure and keep the offense moving, especially through connections with Hunter, has transformed Colorado’s offense into a dangerous unit.

Texas Tech’s pass defense has struggled to contain top quarterbacks, and Sanders’ mix of quick reads and deep strikes will test their secondary’s ability to adapt. If Sanders can continue his rhythm and avoid turnovers, Colorado has a strong chance to control the tempo.

Travis Hunter vs. Texas Tech’s Secondary and Receiving Corps

Hunter’s two-way play is a game-changer. His skills as a receiver, highlighted by his 153-yard game against Cincinnati, make him a major threat. Texas Tech will likely have to adjust its coverage schemes to contain Hunter, which could open up Colorado’s passing lanes further.

On the defensive side, Hunter’s pass breakups and physical presence may limit Morton’s deep throws, putting pressure on Texas Tech to establish short, controlled gains. Hunter’s versatility might prove pivotal in keeping Texas Tech’s offense from finding a rhythm.

Tahj Brooks vs. Colorado’s Run Defense

Brooks has been a workhorse for Texas Tech, surpassing 100 yards in every game this season. If Texas Tech can get Brooks going early, they’ll have a chance to slow the game down and keep Colorado’s high-powered offense off the field. However, Colorado’s run defense showed grit in its last outing, stopping Cincinnati’s crucial 4th-down attempt before halftime.

Limiting Brooks’ impact will be key for Colorado, as it could force Texas Tech into a more pass-heavy game plan, potentially increasing Morton’s exposure to Hunter’s defensive prowess.

Special Teams and Game Flow

Both teams have had issues with penalties and turnovers in recent games, so special teams and discipline may play an outsized role in this matchup. If Colorado’s defense can capitalize on Morton’s occasional interceptions or force Texas Tech into mistakes on third downs, it could set up Sanders and Hunter with shorter fields and scoring opportunities.

Conversely, Texas Tech’s resilience in high-pressure situations has shown they can stay composed and grind out tough yardage late in games.

The Pick

This game is likely to stay close through three quarters, with both teams exchanging scores and capitalizing on the occasional mistake. Texas Tech’s reliance on Brooks to set up play-action passes will allow them to keep pace with Colorado early on, but if Sanders and Hunter maintain their recent form, Colorado’s offensive efficiency may pull them ahead.

Sanders’ poise under pressure and Hunter’s big-play potential on both sides of the ball will likely prove too much for Texas Tech to counter down the stretch.

College Football Pick: Colorado -3 (-115) at BetOnline

Colorado -3 (-115)

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