Colorado Buffaloes Face Tough Road Test Against Georgia Tech in 2026 Opener

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The Colorado Buffaloes will open the 2026 season with a tough road test against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, a game that will set the tone for their entire season. Colorado is looking to improve on a 3-9 record in 2025 and has made significant changes on both offense and defense, but must overcome the challenge of implementing a new offensive scheme and stopping Georgia Tech's potent rushing attack in a hostile road environment.

Why it matters

This game will be a crucial early test for the Buffaloes as they look to compete for a Big 12 title in 2026. Getting a win on the road against a tough opponent would give the team confidence and momentum heading into the rest of the season. However, a loss could set them back and make the rest of the schedule even more daunting.

The details

Colorado's offense will feature a new coordinator in Brennan Marion, who comes from Sacramento State. His scheme will emphasize getting the ball to playmakers in space and balancing the run and pass. The Buffaloes have also brought in a new starting quarterback in redshirt sophomore Julian Lewis, who has some game experience but will need to develop chemistry with the skill players in the spring. Defensively, Colorado has added several players to the defensive line in an effort to improve against the run, which was a major weakness in 2025.

• The Colorado Buffaloes will open the 2026 season on the road against Georgia Tech on August 29, 2026.
• In 2025, Colorado lost a close 27-20 game to Georgia Tech at home.

What’s next

The Buffaloes will need to have a strong spring practice session to get their new-look offense and defense ready for the season opener against Georgia Tech. Head coach Deion Sanders will be focused on developing chemistry and execution, especially for quarterback Julian Lewis and the revamped defensive line.