The Colorado Buffaloes under head coach Deion Sanders have experienced both a winning season with a Heisman Trophy winner and two less-than-ideal seasons. Can the Buffs and Sanders turn things around in 2026?
With the 40-plus transfer additions and revitalized coaching staff led by offensive coordinator Brennan Marion, a turnaround seems plausible. CBS Sports' Tom Fornelli disagrees with that sentiment, believing the Buffaloes still have work to do if they want a bowl game in 2026.
As is always the case, Deion Sanders and staff were active in the portal in an effort to reverse their fortunes. The problem is, like Boston College, Colorado is playing two nonconference games against Power Four opponents (Georgia Tech and Northwestern), and both are on the road. In conference play, the Buffs get both Texas Tech and Utah, though at least those games are in Boulder. It's difficult to predict how the Big 12 will shake out, but overall, the Buffs don't have many games against teams that finished in the bottom half of the league last season. - Tom Fornelli, CBS Sports
Fornelli's point about the schedule is well taken, as the Buffs are one of five teams that will play 11 Power Four opponents. CU, unlike Boston College, is playing its two nonconference Power Four games on the road. A few big-time upsets will need to be a part of the Buffaloes' resume if they want to reach a bowl game. The opening stretch of the season will, without a doubt, tell a lot about whether Colorado can be in the six-win range or closer to its 3-9 season from 2025.
Other programs in Fornelli's "not optimistic" section include Boston College, Maryland, Mississippi State and Syracuse.
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This article originally appeared on Buffaloes Wire: Colorado football 2026 bowl chances per CBS Sports