Colorado vs. Baylor football score predictions for Big 12 opener

The Colorado Buffaloes had a rough week that began with a dismal performance at Northwestern, a player trash-talking an opposing team's stadium, and three players being dismissed for repeated conduct detrimental to the program. Through it all, the Buffaloes have had to focus on improving their on-field production ahead of a challenging Big 12 opener on the road against Baylor.

For starters, Colorado needs a better, more consistent offense, which has averaged only 10.5 points in the two Power Four games the Buffs have played. With a young quarterback in Julian Lewis under center and Sanders not wanting to put too much pressure on him, Brennan Marion's play calling is key. Lewis needs plays that get him in rhythm and his now-limited playmakers in space. So far, we have not seen enough of the trademark Go-Go offense.

Defensively, causing more negative plays should be a talking point against Baylor. Too many times last week, Northwestern got a short field because of penalties and turnovers. If Colorado's defense does some of that against Baylor, it could change the game.

CU is a near double-digit road underdog heading into Saturday's matchup. Can the Buffs buck their downward trend and get a much-needed conference win?

With just a couple of days until kickoff, here are our Buffaloes Wire staff predictions for Colorado's Week matchup at Baylor.

Ariana's Prediction

After their terrible performance against Northwestern, I have lost some confidence in Colorado this season. They were sloppy on both sides of the ball, and the kinds of mistakes they made can't be completely fixed in one week. Colorado has also struggled against the passing attack all year. Baylor has one of the best wide receivers in the Big 12 right now with Gavin Freeman and DJ Lagway is coming back from injury. While I believe the Buffaloes' offense will rebound in this game, I do not believe their passing defense will. The offense keeps it close, but Baylor ultimately comes away with the win.

Score: Baylor 35, Colorado 28

Charlie's Prediction

I am starting to worry about Colorado's offense, and I need to see noticeable progress before I can count on the unit to lead Colorado to a win against a Power Four team on the road. Defense travels, and it's been better so far, but it could use more playmaking. The performance will be better than last week, but I don't think it will lead to a big road win.

Score: Baylor 27, Colorado 21

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This article originally appeared on Buffaloes Wire: Colorado vs. Baylor football score predictions for Big 12 opener