Colorado Falls Short in Waco as Baylor Wins 23-13

A Road Trip Stalled

The Colorado Buffaloes traveled to Waco on Saturday, September 26, 2026, aiming to secure a victory at McLane Stadium, but they ultimately fell short against the Baylor Bears. The final score stood at 23-13 in favor of the home team. While the Buffaloes managed to stay competitive through several quarters, they could not overcome the scoring gap established by Baylor’s offensive execution.

Colorado opened the scoring in the first period when Elliott Arnold kicked a 24-yard field goal, giving the visitors an early 3-0 lead. However, Baylor responded in the second quarter. Rhett Armstrong tied the game at 3-3 with a 37-yard field goal before DJ Lagway connected with Gavin Freeman on a 3-yard touchdown pass.

That seven-point play shifted the momentum, putting Baylor ahead 10-3 at halftime.

The Third Quarter Struggle

The third quarter saw both teams trade field goals, keeping the game within reach for Colorado. Rhett Armstrong extended Baylor’s lead to 13-3 with a 27-yard kick. Elliott Arnold answered with a 46-yard field goal for Colorado, narrowing the margin to 13-6. Despite these efforts, the Buffaloes’ offense struggled to generate consistent yardage or sustain drives that could result in touchdowns.

Fourth Quarter Finish

Colorado showed promise in the fourth quarter when Isaac Wilson threw a 17-yard touchdown pass to Joseph Williams. With Elliott Arnold’s kick, the score became 13-13, tying the game and keeping hopes alive for a comeback. However, Baylor quickly regained control.

Lagway found Jadon Porter on a 33-yard touchdown pass, restoring Baylor’s lead at 20-13. Rhett Armstrong sealed the victory with a 54-yard field goal, making the final score 23-13.

Key Performances

DJ Lagway was instrumental in Baylor’s win, completing 19 of 39 passes for 221 yards and two touchdowns, though he also threw one interception. Gavin Freeman led the receiving corps for the Bears with six catches for 59 yards and a touchdown. Dawson Pendergrass contributed on the ground with 85 rushing yards on 16 carries.

For Colorado, Isaac Wilson passed for 156 yards on 12-of-25 passing, including one touchdown. Joseph Williams had a standout game as well, recording 11 receptions for 127 yards and a touchdown. Micah Welch added 35 rushing yards on nine carries. The loss drops Colorado to a 2-2 record, while Baylor improves to 3-1.

Final Thoughts

The game was played in front of 40,015 spectators at McLane Stadium. While Colorado demonstrated resilience by tying the game late in the fourth quarter, Baylor’s ability to score at critical moments proved decisive. The Buffaloes leave Waco with a loss, while the Bears continue their season with a home victory.

Sources

ESPN