Colorado’s 2025 Schedule Sparks Strength of Schedule Debate Among Fans
As the 2025 college football season approaches, Deion Sanders and the Colorado Buffaloes are facing scrutiny over their schedule, with many questioning whether their path to the College Football Playoff (CFP) is too lenient. This issue isn’t being raised by rival fanbases but by Colorado’s own supporters, who are debating whether the team’s relatively easy slate of games will hurt their legitimacy or set them up for success.
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The Journey from 2023 to 2024: How Colorado Improved
Looking back at the previous seasons, the Buffs endured a rough stretch in 2023, losing their last six games and finishing with a disappointing 4-8 record. However, in 2024, the team rebounded, finishing 9-4 and earning a place in the final AP Poll at No. 25. This turnaround was fueled by several key factors:
Improved personnel through recruitment and transfers
Travis Hunter’s exceptional performance, stepping up to another level
Better pass protection for Shedeur Sanders, giving him more time in the pocket
Yet, one of the biggest contributors to their improved record was their relatively easy schedule. Unlike other CFP hopefuls, Colorado didn’t face a single playoff-bound team in 2024. While they defeated weaker opponents convincingly, their toughest matchup against BYU resulted in a heavy defeat.
This has led many fans to question: was the Buffs’ success in 2024 a result of genuine improvement, or was it largely due to a weaker strength of schedule?
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The 2025 Schedule: An Even Softer Path?
Now, looking ahead to 2025, many Colorado fans are worried that their schedule might be even softer than before. Below is a breakdown of their upcoming opponents:
Colorado’s 2025 Schedule
Aug. 30 – vs. Georgia Tech
Sept. 6 – vs. Delaware
Sept. 13 – at Houston
Sept. 20 – vs. Wyoming
Sept. 27 – vs. BYU
Oct. 4 – at TCU
Oct. 11 – vs. Iowa State
Oct. 18 – BYE
Oct. 25 – at Utah
Nov. 1 – vs. Arizona
Nov. 8 – at West Virginia
Nov. 15 – BYE
Nov. 22 – vs. Arizona State
Nov. 29 – at Kansas State
Compared to their 2024 schedule, which included teams like Nebraska, Baylor, Kansas State, and Oklahoma State, their 2025 lineup appears to lack marquee matchups. Notably, Colorado doesn’t have to face any of the strongest programs from other Power 4 conferences.
One key difference in 2025 is that Colorado will have seven home games for the first time in over four decades. This is an advantage, but it also further reduces the difficulty of their season.
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Why Strength of Schedule Debates Are Complicated
The topic of strength of schedule is always controversial in college football. Many assume that teams intentionally schedule weaker opponents to boost their win total, but in reality, schedules are often planned years in advance. At the time of scheduling, it’s impossible to predict which teams will be competitive or struggling in the future.
Colorado itself is a prime example. Just two years ago, the Buffs were considered an easy win on most teams’ schedules. Now, under Deion Sanders, they have become a competitive force, even if their path hasn’t been the toughest.
Additionally, because Colorado plays in the Big 12, many of their conference games are set automatically. The conference has not been as dominant as the SEC or Big Ten in recent years, which makes any Big 12 team’s schedule look weaker compared to CFP contenders from other conferences.
Still, the biggest criticism comes from Colorado’s non-conference matchups, which are largely determined by Deion Sanders and the athletic department. Fans are frustrated that these games don’t include tougher Power 4 opponents that could improve their CFP resume.
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Colorado Fans React: Frustration Over an Easy Path
Despite the team’s success under Coach Prime, many fans have expressed their discontent over the lack of high-profile matchups in 2025. Some have taken to social media to voice their frustrations:
“Can’t lie, this schedule is weak as s—t.”
“Strength of schedule has to be one of the lowest for a Power 4 school.”
“If they had this schedule last year, they probably would’ve lost none or one.”
One notable absence from the schedule is the Colorado State rivalry game, which has been a staple for years. Some fans compared this to Michigan vs. Ohio State—though on a much smaller scale—and expressed disappointment that it won’t take place.
Another concern revolves around game times. One fan lamented, “How about game times?? 8 PM? No thanks.” Late-night kickoffs can be inconvenient for fans, especially for those attending games in person.
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What’s Next for Colorado?
Despite the ongoing debate, Deion Sanders and Colorado have a real chance to reach the CFP in 2025. With a talented incoming recruiting class and key transfers, the Buffs are poised for another strong season.
One player to watch is five-star QB Julian Lewis, who headlines the 2025 recruiting class. With new talent coming in and some key players heading to the NFL Draft, Sanders will need to prove that Colorado’s success isn’t just a product of an easy schedule, but a legitimate step toward building a powerhouse program.
At the end of the day, the question remains:
Does an easier schedule undermine Colorado’s playoff aspirations, or is it just a smart strategy to secure wins and build momentum?
For now, fans can only wait and see how the 2025 season unfolds.