Boulder, Colorado — A thrilling finish unfolded at Folsom Field on Friday night as Haynes King led Georgia Tech to a 27-20 victory over Colorado in their season opener, overcoming a rough start marked by turnovers. King, who dazzled with a 45-yard touchdown run in the game’s final minute, also contributed significantly in the air, passing for 143 yards.

Despite stumbling early with two fumbles and an interception, King showcased his ability to take command, finishing the game with an impressive total of 156 rushing yards and three touchdowns. On the crucial five-play drive that sealed the win, King carried the ball four times, highlighting his dual-threat capability.

“The coaches put their faith in me, and I just did what I needed to do,” King said, reflecting on his pivotal performance. Meanwhile, Colorado’s final drive fell short, as they failed to leverage their two remaining timeouts, ultimately attempting a Hail Mary that was batted down with just three seconds left.

Colorado’s head coach Deion Sanders expressed a mix of disappointment and optimism. “We had a chance to win. It wasn’t a blowout,” Sanders said. His team was narrowly outgained 463-305, with Georgia Tech dominating on the ground, rushing for 320 yards. “If we capitalize on our chances, this could have been a different outcome.”

The Yellow Jackets’ dismal start did not deter their final performance. Coach Brent Key acknowledged the need to improve but credited their ground game for the turnaround. “We have a lot to clean up, but we executed well when it mattered most,” he said.

Kaidon Salter, a transfer from Liberty, kept Colorado competitive with a 7-yard touchdown scramble late in the fourth quarter, which momentarily put them one point behind. An extra point attempt was narrowly successful, tying the game at 20 before Georgia Tech surged ahead.

This matchup marked the first football meeting between Colorado and Georgia Tech, a historic rivalry stemming from their shared 1990 national championship. Although the Buffaloes faced challenges after losing several star players to the NFL, including quarterback Shedeur Sanders and Heisman winner Travis Hunter, coach Sanders remains determined. “Time is not on our side; we need to hit the ground running,” he stated.

A heavy rain before the game made for slippery conditions on the new turf. Colorado’s defense made notable plays, including linebacker Martavius French recovering two fumbles, showing resilience amidst the chaos.

In a nod to health and awareness, the Buffaloes implemented a portable privacy tent on the sidelines for Coach Sanders, who is undergoing treatment for bladder cancer. The tent allows him to manage his condition during games effectively.

Additionally, the team honored the late Bill McCartney, their coach from the 1990 season, by wearing commemorative patches on their jerseys, paying tribute to his legacy in Colorado football.

Moving forward, both teams will aim to build on their performances in their respective matches scheduled for September 6, with Georgia Tech set to host Gardner-Webb while Colorado will face Delaware at home.