Buffs Football: A Legacy of Excellence

For over a century, the University of Colorado Boulder’s football program, also known as the Buffaloes or Buffs, has been a source of pride and tradition for the school and its loyal fans. From historic victories to notable players, the Buffs have established a legacy of excellence on the field.

The Early Years

The University of Colorado first fielded a football team in 1890, led by coach James H. Robinson. In 1894, the team adopted the now iconic nickname, “Buffs,” after the school’s mascot, the American bison. However, it wasn’t until 1898 that the Buffs joined their first conference, the Colorado Football Association.

In 1901, Colorado made a switch to the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference, which they dominated for the next two decades under the leadership of coach Fred Folsom. During this time, the Buffs racked up a 67-10-2 record and claimed six conference titles.

The Glory Years

From the 1930s to the 1970s, the Buffs experienced a period of consistent success and national recognition. Under the coaching of Dallas Ward, Colorado won their first national championship in 1938, led by star halfback Byron “Whizzer” White, who went on to become a U.S. Supreme Court justice. The following year, they claimed the Big Seven Conference title.

But the most memorable era for the Buffs was the tenure of legendary coach Eddie Crowder, who led the team from 1963 to 1973. During this time, the Buffs owned the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference, winning 24 consecutive games from 1967 to 1969. In 1971, Colorado competed in their first-ever bowl game, the Liberty Bowl, where they defeated the Alabama Crimson Tide 47-33.

Under Crowder’s leadership, the Buffs also produced several notable players, including running back Bobby Anderson, who won the Heisman Trophy in 1969, and quarterback Darian Hagan, who led the Buffs to the national championship game in 1990.

The Modern Era

Since the mid-1970s, the Buffs have continued to compete at the highest level of college football under coaches such as Bill McCartney, Rick Neuheisel, Gary Barnett, and current coach Mel Tucker.

In 1990, Colorado reached new heights as they claimed their first and only national championship in a thrilling victory over Notre Dame in the Orange Bowl. The Buffs were led by standout players such as wide receiver Michael Westbrook and kicker Tom Rouen, and finished the season with an 11-1-1 record.

The 1990s also brought about the formation of the Big 12 Conference, which the Buffs joined in 1996. They took home division titles in 2001 and 2002, and competed in the conference championship game in 2005.

Throughout the decades, the Buffs have continued to produce standout players who have gone on to successful careers in the NFL. Some notable examples include defensive tackle Jashon Sykes, running back Phillip Lindsay, and wide receiver Michael Gallup.

The Future of Buffs Football

As the Buffs look towards the future, they continue to strive for excellence on and off the field. The team’s current head coach, Mel Tucker, is known for his commitment to building a strong and disciplined program. Under his leadership, the Buffs have seen several successful seasons and have made strides in recruiting top talent.

The Buffs also have exciting plans for the future of their home field, Folsom Field. The planned renovations, scheduled to be completed by 2023, will include updates to the locker rooms, press box, and a new premium seating area.

In addition to their dedication to the game, the Buffs also prioritize academic success and community involvement. The team has consistently maintained a high graduation rate and has earned recognition for their community service efforts.

Game Day Experience

Game days at Folsom Field are a cherished tradition for Buffs fans and students. The excitement and camaraderie on campus and in the stadium are unparalleled. Before kickoff, fans can often be found tailgating, enjoying live music at Stampede Street, and participating in Buff Walk, where the team walks through the crowd before entering the stadium.

The Buffs also have a rich history of traditions, both on and off the field. Some highlights include the “Ralphie Run,” where a live bison named Ralphie leads the team onto the field, and “The Fifth Quarter,” a tradition where fans stay after the game to sing the school’s fight song, “Glory Colorado.”

Final Thoughts

For over 100 years, the Buffs football program has been a cornerstone of the University of Colorado and a source of pride for its fans. From early dominance in the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference to recent successes in the Pac-12 Conference, the Buffs have established themselves as a powerhouse in college football. As they continue to strive for excellence, the Buffaloes’ legacy will undoubtedly continue to grow, inspiring future generations of players and fans.