The Colorado Buffaloes and West Virginia Mountaineers have both endured disappointing seasons in 2025, each entering this week’s matchup at 3–6. West Virginia is coming off its most impressive win of the year, a road upset of No. 22 Houston. Meanwhile, Colorado heads into the Big 12 showdown riding a two-game losing streak.
WVU sits as 6.5-point favorites at home, with the over/under set at 53.5 total points. Here are two key players to watch in this game, followed by the top storylines for each team, and a prediction from Heartland College Sports.
Two Key Players to Watch
Scotty Fox Jr., WVU Quarterback
Amid ongoing quarterback uncertainty in Morgantown, Scotty Fox Jr. may have solidified his spot as QB1 with a strong showing against a solid Houston squad. He totaled three touchdowns, protected the football, and added 65 rushing yards, showcasing his dual-threat ability. With Colorado’s defense reeling, Fox could be in line for another standout performance at home this weekend.
Omarion Miller, Colorado Wide Receiver
While Colorado’s offense has struggled to find its rhythm this season, wide receiver Omarion Miller has capitalized on his opportunities. In last weekend’s loss to Arizona, he hauled in two touchdowns and posted a season-high 91 receiving yards. With West Virginia’s defense prone to giving up big plays, Miller could pose a serious threat to the Mountaineers’ secondary.
Top Storylines
All Eyes on Julian Lewis
With inconsistency at quarterback, Colorado will turn to true freshman Julian Lewis to lead the way in Morgantown. A highly touted recruit, Lewis brings a strong arm and natural playmaking ability but will face a tough challenge on the road. His performance could shape not only the outcome of Saturday’s game but also the direction of Colorado’s offense moving forward. He threw for 121 yards and a touchdown against Arizona.
Can WVU’s Ground Game Keep Rolling?
West Virginia’s rushing attack came alive last week in the upset over No. 22 Houston, piling up over 240 yards on the ground, along with four touchdowns and a balanced effort. If the Mountaineers can replicate that physical, downhill style against a vulnerable Colorado front, they’ll control the clock and take pressure off their freshman quarterback. Establishing the run early could be the key to securing a second straight Big 12 win.
Prediction: WVU 24, Colorado 14
If the Mountaineers can run the ball effectively again, they should be able to control the pace at home. Colorado, meanwhile, is handing the keys to true freshman Julian Lewis, who may flash potential but will likely face growing pains in a tough road environment. With WVU’s defense playing more disciplined and the Buffaloes still struggling to find consistency, the Mountaineers have the edge in this one. Considering Colorado’s defense giving up over 100 points in the past two weeks, the matchup tilts in favor of the Mountaineers.
