Deion Sanders and the Colorado Buffaloes fell to the University of Houston, 36-20, in a tight road battle Friday night, with former third-string quarterback Ryan Staub struggling in his first start.
After earning their first win of the season last Saturday in a 31-7 victory over Delaware, the Buffs dropped to 1-2 — marking the worst start to a season in Sanders’ three-year tenure at Colorado.
Staub completed 19-of-35 passes for 204 yards, one touchdown, two interceptions and had one fumble, which was recovered by Colorado. Staub connected with Joseph Williams with a touchdown who also had three catches for 52 yards. Running back Simeon Price added a touchdown on five carries for 51 yards, while Zach Atkins also scored.
For the Houston Cougars, quarterback Conner Weigman threw for 222 yards on 15-of-24 passing while running in two touchdowns for 83 yards. Kicker Ethan Sanchez accounted for 18 points.
Sanders faced criticism on social media for sticking with Staub at quarterback despite other options on the bench, as Colorado’s offense continued to struggle with consistency and production.
The Buffs struggled to find any offensive rhythm in the first quarter, going three-and-out on two of their three possessions and failing to reach scoring position.
The second quarter started much the same, with another three-and-out on Colorado’s first drive. But trailing 13-0, the Buffs came to life with a 10-play scoring drive capped by a 38-yard touchdown run from Price. On their next possession, following a Houston field goal, quarterback Staub fumbled after a 19-yard run front flip into the end-zone, but the ball was recovered by Atkins for a touchdown — turning a near disaster into six points.
Despite the rally, the Houston Cougars held a 16-14 lead at halftime.
Houston dominated time of possession in the third quarter, holding the ball for 12:49 as Colorado’s defense struggled to get off the field. The Buffaloes managed just 50 seconds of possession in the frame, going scoreless while allowing a field goal and a touchdown. They entered the final quarter trailing 26-15.
On the first possession of the fourth quarter, Staub was sacked for a 2-yard loss, followed by a run for no gain. He then threw an interception, setting up a Houston field goal attempt that was ultimately missed.
Trailing 33-14 with 4:34 remaining, Staub threw his first touchdown pass of the game, connecting with Joseph Williams on a 37-yard strike. The Buffaloes failed on the two-point conversion, and the Cougars maintained a 33-20 lead.
Another field goal extended the Cougars’ lead to 36-20 with 3:34 remaining. Colorado’s comeback hopes were dashed when Staub threw an interception that was returned 40 yards, effectively sealing the win for Houston.
Colorado will face Wyoming next Saturday at home.
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