The upcoming matchup between the Colorado Buffaloes and the West Virginia Mountaineers — commonly tagged “Colorado vs West Virginia” — offers a fascinating mix of rebuilding narratives, high hopes and plenty of risk. For fans of West Virginia football (aka WVU) or CU buffs football, this game could turn into a telling moment for both programs.
1. The Context & Storylines
West Virginia Football: A Mountaineer Rebound?
WVU enters this contest with growing confidence. The Mountaineers snapped a losing slide with a big win over a ranked opponent, injecting momentum into a season that started off rocky. Their offense has shown improvement, the run game has been effective, and at home in Morgantown they’ll try to leverage a crowd and some swagger.
CU Buffs Football: Fresh Start Under Pressure
On the other side, the Buffaloes have had a rough ride. After being outscored 105-24 in their last two games, they are in full repair mode. The big splash story: freshman quarterback Julian Lewis has been announced as the starter for the first time. With high expectations and rookie risk, the Buffs are banking on this next chapter to ignite.
Why This Match Matters
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Both teams are 3-6 overall and 1-5 in the Big 12, so bowl eligibility is still alive but quickly slipping.
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For WVU, this is a chance to build on a breakthrough win and stabilize. For Colorado, it’s about salvaging pride and gaining momentum for the future.
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The matchup features contrasting trajectories: WVU trending upward, Colorado trying to arrest a slide. Analysts are noting the difference.
2. Key Players and Matchups
Julian Lewis (Colorado)
Freshman signal-caller Julian Lewis steps into the spotlight. After limited action earlier in the year, he’s now the guy. He brings big-time potential, but also the inexperience that comes with being a true freshman. Colorado will lean on his arm and hope his poise holds up.
WVU Skill and Momentum
While the series value of specific names like Steve Slaton may tie to WVU tradition more than present day, the Mountaineers’ running game and dual-threat QB play are big talking points. Diore Hubbard and freshman Scotty Fox Jr. have given the offense dimensions many teams don’t expect.
Defense Scenarios
Defensively, both squads have serious vulnerabilities. Colorado’s front seven has been gashed, and West Virginia’s defense has allowed chunk plays. In a way, this game is poised for one of the few times both offenses might shine.
3. Where to Watch & Game Info
If you’re wondering where to watch Colorado Buffaloes football vs West Virginia Mountaineers football, here’s the info:
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Date & Kickoff: Saturday, Nov. 8, 2025 at Noon ET.
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TV: The game will be televised on TNT (and simulcast on related platforms).
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Location: At West Virginia’s home field, giving WVU the home-field edge.
4. Colorado vs West Virginia Prediction & Outlook
Prediction
All signs lead to WVU pulling away. Most previews lean that way: WVU is favored by about 6.5 points. The feeling throughout the betting and preview world: West Virginia wins, high scoring, Colorado struggles to hold up.
Why WVU Has the Edge
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Home field + momentum from a recent big win.
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More experience running a dual-threat offense and exploiting defensive weaknesses.
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Colorado’s defence is among the worst in yards per play allowed and has been repeatedly beaten.
Why Colorado Could Threaten
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Julian Lewis brings upside. If he plays fearless and the Buffs catch some breaks, there’s room for a surprise.
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Both defenses are shaky — meaning if the Buffaloes can generate a few explosive plays, they might keep it close.
Final Word
I’d project something like: West Virginia 31, Colorado 20 — WVU covers the spread and the total points go Over 52.5. The Buffs show flashes, but the Mountaineers impose their will.
5. What to Watch During the Game
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How Julian Lewis handles pressure and whether Colorado’s offensive line holds up.
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Whether WVU leans on the run game early to set tempo and relieve their young QB.
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Turnover margin: Colorado must protect the ball; WVU must force mistakes.
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Big plays allowed: Both defenses give up big gains — tracking chunk plays will signal the flow of the game.
