Paul Finebaum: Colorado could be 'a legitimate contender' in the Big 12 after beating UCF

If there is a question if Colorado can actually win the Big 12 in 2024, Paul Finebaum is ready to answer yes.

After a 48:21 win UCF Away on Saturday, the Buffaloes improved to 4-1 at the start of a bye week. Finebaum was so impressed by the performance that he's willing to give Deion Sanders and companies a chance at the Big 12 title.

And it was more than just Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter leading the team.

“I'm 'Paul In' and for the first time since Prime was there two years ago, I think this is a legitimate football team,” Finebaum continued Sports center. “It's not about hype, it's not about the stars, it's about a football team that to me yesterday was the most impressive school of all, and I know that includes Alabama.” But this team is on its way made and became a tough opponent, a big underdog, and they dominated, and they did it effectively.

“And of course they did Travis Hunter And Shedeur (Sanders and) anything else related to Deion Sanders. But they looked like a real football team and not a gimmick. And I couldn't be more impressed. And I think they could be a legitimate contender in their league for the first time.”

The running game didn't explode, but Colorado received touchdown contributions from Dallan Hayden And Micah Welch. Shedeur Sanders threw for 290 yards, three touchdowns and one pick. Will Sheppard, Travis Hunter and LaJohntay Wester everyone was thrilled.

The Big 12 may offer more opportunities because anyone can be beaten. Kansas State looks to be the frontrunner after a win Oklahoma State.

Utah lost Arizona in excitement and suddenly the conference is turned upside down again. Colorado is 2-0 in the conference and will face Kansas State and Arizona in its next two games after a bye week.

But if Deion Sanders is getting Colorado going right now, there could be a lot of eyes on the Big 12 midseason.

“A wonderful game,” Sanders said after the game. “Highest respect for Coach (Gus) Malzahn. He keeps me going and he keeps me on my toes. What he has accomplished and what he has contributed to college football is phenomenal…

“Football-wise, it’s one of the first times we played a game together offensively, defensively and as a special teams, with (Alejandro Mata) scoring the field goal just before halftime. That was huge. Even the play call right in front of Mata to go out, just phenomenal execution. Shedeur, I think he got touched a few times, but other than that we ran the damn ball effectively. Really proud.”