Posted on: September 22, 2023, 12:24h.
Last updated on: September 22, 2023, 12:24h.
In Pac-12 college football action, the Colorado Buffs will be without star player Travis Hunter when they face off against the Oregon Ducks this Saturday. Hunter suffered a liver injury from a late hit in last week’s game against Colorado State.
Hunter had emerged as a Heisman Trophy candidate for his exceptional performance playing both cornerback on defense and wide receiver on offense. His odds for the award improved significantly after Colorado’s wins over TCU and Nebraska.
However, Sportsbooks have now removed Hunter from the Heisman Trophy race due to his injury. In his absence, Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders has seen his Heisman odds rise.
Hunter Sidelined with Kidney Injury
The Colorado Buffs faced off against the Colorado State Rams last week in their long-standing rivalry known as the Rocky Mountain Showdown. Colorado dominated the series historically but suffered a setback, losing both the game and Travis Hunter to injury.
Hunter was targeted with a late hit from Colorado State safety Hunter Blackburn, causing a lacerated liver. Although X-rays showed no fractures, Hunter will be out of action for several weeks.
The incident sparked controversy, with Colorado fans expressing their anger towards Blackburn and even sending death threats. Coach Deion Sanders condemned the threats but forgave Blackburn, and Hunter also expressed understanding.
Betting Analysis for Colorado vs. Oregon
This Saturday, the #10 Oregon Ducks will host the #19 Colorado Buffs in what promises to be an exciting Pac-12 matchup. Despite the absence of Travis Hunter, Colorado bettors have continued to back their team as three-touchdown underdogs.
The line originally opened with Oregon as a -17 favorite but has since moved to -22 in some sportsbooks. Colorado has an impressive 3-0 record straight up and a 2-1 record against the spread, while Oregon is 3-0 ATS this season.
Sportsbooks experienced heavy betting on Colorado in the first two weeks, with the Colorado/Nebraska game attracting more wagers than any NFL Week 1 game. This week, Colorado remains a popular choice among bettors, with significant moneyline wagers and high overall betting volume.
DraftKings reported that the Colorado/Oregon matchup has generated the most betting activity in college football this weekend, with 81% of bets favoring Colorado at +21. The total points line for the game is set at 70.5 over/under.
Despite the odds stacked against them, Colorado has proven to be a resilient team. Will they be able to defy expectations and secure a victory against Oregon?