The Rocky Mountain Rivalry: Colorado vs. Kansas State

In the heart of the Big 12 Conference, two storied programs, the University of Colorado Buffaloes and the Kansas State University Wildcats, engage in an intense rivalry that has captivated college football fans for decades. Despite their geographical proximity and shared conference affiliation, these two teams represent vastly different cultures and traditions, making their rivalry one of the most unique in the country.

Historical Background

The first meeting between Colorado and Kansas State took place in 1899, with the Buffaloes emerging victorious by a score of 12-5. Over the ensuing century, the two teams have faced off 107 times, with Colorado holding a slight edge in the overall series record, 54-48-5.

In the early years of the rivalry, Colorado dominated, winning 11 of the first 12 contests. However, Kansas State began to assert itself in the mid-20th century, winning 10 of 15 games from 1947 to 1961. The 1990s and 2000s were marked by close battles, with both teams sharing the Big 12 North Division title in 2001.

Cultural Differences

Beyond the gridiron, Colorado and Kansas State embody distinct cultural identities. Colorado is known for its stunning natural beauty, with the Rocky Mountains serving as a backdrop for its campus in Boulder. The state has a reputation for liberalism and environmentalism, while Kansas is renowned for its vast agricultural landscape and conservative political leanings.

These cultural differences are reflected in the fan bases of the two universities. Colorado fans are often characterized by their passion for the outdoors and their enthusiastic support for the Buffaloes. Kansas State fans, on the other hand, are known for their loyalty to the Wildcats and their unwavering support for the team's famous marching band, the Pride of Wildcat Land.

On-Field Rivalry

The rivalry between Colorado and Kansas State has always been intense, but it reached new heights in the 1990s and 2000s, when both teams were perennial contenders in the Big 12 Conference. During this era, the games were often decided by a single play, with both teams trading blows in a series of unforgettable matchups.

One of the most memorable games in the rivalry's history occurred in 1999, when Colorado quarterback Kordell Stewart led a dramatic fourth-quarter comeback to give the Buffaloes a 38-31 victory. Another classic contest took place in 2006, when Kansas State kicker Martin Gramatica missed a potential game-winning field goal in the final seconds, allowing Colorado to escape with a 20-19 triumph.

Recent Years

In recent years, the rivalry has been somewhat one-sided, with Kansas State winning seven of the last eight meetings. However, the Buffaloes have shown signs of improvement under head coach Karl Dorrell, and they will look to challenge the Wildcats for supremacy in the Big 12 North in the coming years.

The Future of the Rivalry

The Colorado-Kansas State rivalry is one of the most storied in college football, and it is sure to continue to captivate fans for generations to come. With both schools located in the heartland of the Big 12 Conference, the rivalry is likely to remain intense and competitive for years to come.

Key Figures

Colorado:

• All-Time Wins: 54
• All-Time Losses: 48
• All-Time Ties: 5
• National Championships: 1 (1990)
• Heisman Trophy Winners: 1 (Rasheed Walker)

Kansas State:

• All-Time Wins: 583
• All-Time Losses: 458
• All-Time Ties: 43
• National Championships: 2 (1934, 1951)
• Heisman Trophy Winners: 1 (Aeneas Williams)

Stories and Lessons Learned

Story 1: The Hail Mary

In 1994, Colorado trailed Kansas State by six points with just seconds remaining in the game. Quarterback John Embree heaved a Hail Mary pass into the end zone, and wide receiver Michael Westbrook came down with the game-winning catch, giving the Buffaloes a dramatic 41-35 victory.

Lesson: Never give up, even when the odds are against you.

Story 2: The Kick Six

In 2014, Kansas State faced Auburn in the Outback Bowl. With Auburn leading by six points in the closing seconds, Kansas State returned a failed field goal attempt 99 yards for a touchdown, giving the Wildcats a thrilling 33-28 victory.

Lesson: Anything is possible in sports.

Story 3: The Rivalry That Ended a Friendship

In the early 2000s, Colorado and Kansas State were both ranked among the top teams in the country. However, the rivalry took a bitter turn when Kansas State head coach Bill Snyder accused Colorado head coach Gary Barnett of being unethical. The animosity between the two coaches eventually led to the end of their friendship.

Lesson: Rivalry can sometimes blur the lines of personal and professional relationships.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake 1: Underestimating Your Opponent

Both Colorado and Kansas State have a history of success, and both teams are capable of beating each other on any given day. It is important for both teams to respect their opponent and to prepare for a tough game.

Mistake 2: Taking the Rivalry Too Seriously

While the Colorado-Kansas State rivalry is intense, it is important to remember that it is just a game. Both teams should strive to compete with dignity and respect, and to avoid letting the rivalry get personal.

Mistake 3: Not Having Fun

The Colorado-Kansas State rivalry is a great opportunity for fans of both teams to come together and celebrate their shared love of college football. Both teams should embrace the rivalry and have fun with it.

Why the Rivalry Matters

Tradition: The Colorado-Kansas State rivalry is one of the oldest and most storied in college football. It is a tradition that has been passed down from generation to generation, and it is something that both teams and their fans cherish.

Competition: The Colorado-Kansas State rivalry is one of the most competitive in the Big 12 Conference. Both teams are always striving to win, and the games are always close. This makes the rivalry exciting for fans and players alike.

Pride: The Colorado-Kansas State rivalry is a source of great pride for both teams and their fans. Both teams want to be the best in the Big 12 North, and they will do whatever it takes to win.

How the Rivalry Benefits Both Schools

Increased Revenue: The Colorado-Kansas State rivalry is a major source of revenue for both schools. The games are always well-attended, and the television rights generate significant income. This money can be used to support athletic programs and other university initiatives.

National Exposure: The Colorado-Kansas State rivalry is a national event. The games are televised on ESPN and other major networks, giving both schools valuable exposure. This exposure can help to attract recruits and raise the profile of both universities.

School Spirit: The Colorado-Kansas State rivalry is a great way to bring together students, alumni, and fans of both schools. The games are a time for people to celebrate their shared love of college football and to show their support for their teams.

Conclusion

The Colorado-Kansas State rivalry is one of the most passionate and intense in college football. It is a rivalry that is built on tradition, competition, and pride. Both teams have a rich history, and they are both committed to winning. The future of the rivalry is bright, and it is sure to continue to captivate fans for generations to come.

Tables

Table 1: Colorado vs. Kansas State Head-to-Head Record

Table 2: Colorado vs. Kansas State National Championships

Table 3: Colorado vs. Kansas State Heisman Trophy Winners