In a thrilling match late Saturday night, Colorado faced Kansas State in a gripping 2024 college football game, with the Wildcats clinching a 31-28 victory at Folsom Field in Boulder, Colorado, fueled by three touchdowns in the last seven minutes.

Noteworthy was not only the excitement on the field but also the absence of key players.

Despite staging a near 10-point comeback in the fourth quarter without their star, coach Deion Sanders and the Buffaloes spent a considerable time without Travis Hunter.

Hunter, a standout player and leading contender for the Heisman Trophy as Week 7 approached, left the game in the second quarter due to what appeared to be a shoulder injury.

The junior, who plays both wide receiver and defensive back, was among several crucial players sidelined during the loss to Kansas State. The team’s other top receivers, Jimmy Horn Jr. and Omarion Miller, also suffered injuries, exiting in the second and fourth quarters, respectively.

Even with his key targets sidelined, Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders still completed an impressive 34 of 40 passes for 388 yards, along with three touchdowns and one interception. Post-game, despite the thrilling nature of the match, the focus remained on Hunter, a player whose remarkable 2024 season faced a significant challenge.

Here’s a detailed update on Hunter’s injury and his future playing status:

Travis Hunter injury update

The incident that led to Hunter’s exit occurred roughly eight minutes before halftime when he caught a 14-yard pass from Shedeur Sanders and was hit by Kansas State’s safety, Daniel Cobbs.

Following this play, Hunter left the field to be assessed by a team trainer and was taken to the locker room. He returned to the sidelines in full uniform early in the third quarter but did not participate further in the game.

Before his injury, Hunter had recorded three receptions for 26 yards on offense and made one tackle on defense. When asked about the condition of Hunter, Horn, and Miller post-game, Deion Sanders mentioned he had no updates.

“I haven’t received any news on those young men,” he stated. “I hope they can get back soon. However, we won’t rush them. Their well-being is far more important than this game.”

Colton Hood, Hunter’s replacement at cornerback, made a significant impact by intercepting a deflected pass from Kansas State’s Avery Johnson and returning it 59 yards to the Wildcats’ 17-yard line. Shortly after, the Buffaloes secured a go-ahead touchdown with 3:12 left on the clock.

This season, Hunter has been pivotal for Colorado, contributing significantly to their 4-1 start in Deion Sanders’ second year as head coach.

At midway through the regular season, Hunter has tallied 49 receptions for 587 yards and six touchdowns, leading the team in the first two categories, alongside contributing 16 tackles, three pass break-ups, two interceptions, and one forced fumble.

His indispensable role in both offensive and defensive plays means that Hunter has been on the field for most snaps this season. Before his injury, he participated in 44 of the game’s 45 plays for both offense and defense.

“Losing Jimmy (Horn Jr.), Travis (Hunter), and others was a significant challenge because they are critical to our team’s fabric and identity,” said Deion Sanders after the game Saturday night. “That put a strain on us, but others stepped up, and I’m proud of them.”

This immense workload raises concerns about Hunter’s stamina and ability to continue performing at such a high level.

Next Saturday, Colorado will play against Arizona, followed by an Oct. 26 home game against Cincinnati. Two additional wins would make the Buffaloes eligible for just their third bowl game since 2008.