35 Facts About Colorado Buffaloes Football

History of Colorado Buffaloes Football

The Colorado Buffaloes football team has a rich history filled with memorable moments and achievements. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about this storied program.

1. The Colorado Buffaloes football team was established in 1890, making it one of the oldest college football programs in the United States.

2. Folsom Field, the home stadium of the Buffaloes, opened in 1924 and has a seating capacity of over 50,000.

3. The team’s mascot, Ralphie the buffalo, made its debut in 1966. Ralphie is a live buffalo that leads the team onto the field before each home game.

4. The Buffaloes have won a total of 27 conference championships, showcasing their dominance in college football over the years.

5. In 1990, the Buffaloes won their first and only national championship under head coach Bill McCartney.

Notable Players and Coaches

The Colorado Buffaloes have produced numerous talented players and coaches who have left a significant mark on the program and the sport.

6. Byron "Whizzer" White, who played for the Buffaloes in the late 1930s, went on to become a Supreme Court Justice.

7. Rashaan Salaam won the Heisman Trophy in 1994, becoming the first and only Colorado player to receive this prestigious award.

8. Kordell Stewart, known as "Slash," played quarterback for the Buffaloes and later had a successful NFL career with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

9. Eric Bieniemy, a standout running back for the Buffaloes, is now a highly respected offensive coordinator in the NFL.

10. Bill McCartney, who coached the team from 1982 to 1994, is the winningest coach in Colorado Buffaloes history with 93 victories.

Memorable Games and Moments

The Colorado Buffaloes have been part of some unforgettable games and moments that have left a lasting impression on fans.

11. The "Fifth Down Game" in 1990 against Missouri is one of the most controversial games in college football history. Colorado was mistakenly given an extra down, which they used to score the game-winning touchdown.

12. In 1994, Kordell Stewart threw a 64-yard Hail Mary pass to Michael Westbrook to defeat Michigan in one of the most dramatic finishes in college football.

13. The Buffaloes' rivalry with Nebraska, known as the "Nebraska-Colorado Game," has produced many thrilling and intense matchups over the years.

14. In 2001, Colorado defeated Nebraska 62-36, a victory that helped them secure the Big 12 Championship.

15. The 1991 Orange Bowl, where Colorado defeated Notre Dame 10-9, secured their national championship.

Traditions and Culture

Colorado Buffaloes football is steeped in traditions that add to the unique culture of the program.

16. The running of Ralphie, where the live buffalo mascot leads the team onto the field, is one of the most iconic traditions in college football.

17. The "Flatirons" logo, introduced in 1981, represents the distinctive rock formations near Boulder, Colorado.

18. The "Buff Walk" is a pre-game tradition where fans line up to cheer the team as they walk to the stadium.

19. The "Pearl Street Stampede" is a pep rally held on Boulder’s famous Pearl Street Mall before home games.

20. The team’s fight song, "Fight CU," is sung by fans and players alike to show their school spirit.

Achievements and Records

The Colorado Buffaloes have set numerous records and achieved significant milestones throughout their history.

21. The Buffaloes have appeared in 29 bowl games, winning 12 of them.

22. Colorado has produced over 30 All-Americans, highlighting the talent that has come through the program.

23. The team has had 24 players selected in the first round of the NFL Draft.

24. In 1989, the Buffaloes finished the regular season undefeated for the first time in school history.

25. Colorado has had five players inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame.

Recent Developments

The Colorado Buffaloes continue to evolve and make headlines in the world of college football.

26. In 2016, the Buffaloes won the Pac-12 South Division, their first division title since joining the conference in 2011.

27. The team’s facilities have undergone significant upgrades, including the construction of the Champions Center, which opened in 2015.

28. Mel Tucker, who coached the team in 2019, left a lasting impact despite his short tenure, leading the Buffaloes to a 5-7 record.

29. Karl Dorrell, hired in 2020, is the current head coach and aims to bring the Buffaloes back to national prominence.

30. The Buffaloes have a strong recruiting pipeline, consistently attracting top talent from across the country.

Fan Base and Community

The Colorado Buffaloes have a passionate fan base that supports the team through thick and thin.

31. The "C-Unit" is the official student section, known for its loud and enthusiastic support during games.

32. The Boulder community rallies around the team, creating a vibrant and supportive atmosphere on game days.

33. The "Buff Club" is a booster organization that provides financial support to the athletic program.

34. The team’s social media presence has grown significantly, engaging fans with behind-the-scenes content and updates.

35. The Buffaloes’ fan base extends beyond Colorado, with alumni and supporters across the country showing their pride.

The Colorado Buffaloes football program is rich in history, tradition, and achievements. From legendary players and coaches to unforgettable games and moments, the Buffaloes continue to make their mark on college football.

Colorado Buffaloes Football: A Legacy of Excellence

Colorado Buffaloes football has a rich history filled with memorable moments and remarkable achievements. From their national championship win in 1990 to producing NFL stars like Kordell Stewart and Rashaan Salaam, the Buffaloes have left an indelible mark on college football. Their storied rivalry with Nebraska and the iconic Folsom Field add layers of tradition and excitement to every season.

The program's commitment to excellence is evident in their dedicated fan base, who passionately support the team through ups and downs. With a focus on recruiting top talent and innovative coaching, the future looks bright for the Buffaloes. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual observer, there's no denying the impact and legacy of Colorado Buffaloes football. Here's to many more seasons of thrilling games and unforgettable moments.