Deion Sanders: Travis Hunter Will Play for Colorado vs. Cincinnati Despite Injury

Colorado head coach Deion Sanders confirmed two-way star Travis Hunter will play Saturday against Cincinnati.

Sanders said the junior wide receiver/defensive back, who's dealing with a shoulder injury, "will certainly contribute a lot more than a week ago because he's healthier."

Hunter left in the second quarter of Colorado's 31-28 loss to Kansas State on Oct. 12 and didn't return to the game.

In the 34-7 win over Arizona, he also sat out the second half. The Buffs carried a 21-point lead into the locker room at halftime, so they didn't need him much to see out the victory. He finished with two receptions for 17 yards and one tackle.

Saturday should present a tough test for Sanders' squad. Colorado and Cincinnati have identical overall and conference records (5-2, 3-1), and they sit 40th and 41st respectively in the SP+ metric of ESPN's Bill Connelly.

Especially if they have his services for more than one half, Hunter's presence could make a big difference for the Buffs toward getting the win that would make them bowl-eligible for the first time since 2020.

The last two weeks have also caused Hunter's Heisman Trophy campaign to lose some steam. Nobody doubts his talent, but he also needs to have the on-field production to overtake Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty, who's arguably the favorite right now. Only playing two quarters each week won't help Hunter get there.