Buffs defense stands tall, leads way in upset over No. 22 Iowa State

BOULDER, Colo. — The Colorado Buffaloes defense stepped up in a big way at Folsom Field on Saturday, making two of the biggest plays in the fourth quarter to propel the Buffs to a 24-17 upset win over No. 22 Iowa State. After the previous two losses, Buffs head coach Deion Sanders emphasized that he needed to see more out of his defense, especially his cornerbacks, and he got that in a big way.

Tawfiq Byard saved a touchdown with a massive interception early in the fourth, while a group effort on a fourth-and-short later in the period gave the Buffs the ball in plus territory, which resulted in a field goal that pushed the lead to seven — all they needed to secure the victory.

No fly 🙅‍♂️@Byard_Tawfiq x #GoBuffs

📺: ESPN pic.twitter.com/bsv2C8enb7

— Colorado Buffaloes Football (@CUBuffsFootball) October 11, 2025

A flag was thrown on Byard’s interception for what seemed like an obvious pass interference call, but was later picked up after the play.

Iowa State came into Saturday’s contest averaging over 31 points per game, but was not able to capitalize on a plethora of opportunities throughout the game. The receivers dropped a couple of passes early on when it was raining — plays that almost certainly would’ve set up a chance to get points — and the big boys up front couldn’t get the push they needed late in the game when all the chips were on the table.

Their 17 points was the second fewest they’ve scored all season. In Week 2, they mustered up 16 against Iowa, but still came out with the win.

Once again, the Cyclones had a chance to drive down and score a touchdown to tie the game with around five minutes left in the game. Once again, the black and gold didn’t budge, and they forced a punt with under four minutes left.

Jeremiah Brown led the way with 10 tackles, while Byard had the second most with 7. Byard’s interception was the only turnover of the game for either side. Colorado’s defense also held the Cyclones to just 2-for-12 on third down.

There are still improvements to be made, as the Cyclones put up a strong effort on the ground. Abu Sam led the way with 177 yards and two touchdowns on 24 carries.

This is just the second time that Sanders’ Buffs have defeated a ranked opponent, with the only other time coming in the first game of the Coach Prime era against TCU in 2023. This strong performance gives them some much-needed momentum heading into the bye week.

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