Colorado, Minus Two Key Players Off to the NFL, Meets Georgia Tech

Friday night’s opener in Boulder isn’t just another college football matchup — it’s a clash of history and transition. The Colorado Buffaloes and Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets will meet for the first time ever, though their programs will forever be linked by the 1990 season when they split the national championship.

Fast forward 35 years, and both teams enter this game with renewed ambition. Colorado is coming off a 9-4 season under Deion Sanders, while Georgia Tech is fresh off back-to-back winning campaigns for the first time in over a decade.

For fans tracking betting lines, the latest college football scores and odds highlight just how intriguing this opener is — a non-conference game with heavy implications for early rankings and momentum.

Colorado begins the Kaidon Salter era

The Buffaloes enter 2025 without two of the most recognizable names in college football: Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter. Both were selected in the top two of the 2025 NFL Draft, leaving massive shoes to fill.

To steady the ship, Deion Sanders turned to Liberty transfer Kaidon Salter, a dual-threat quarterback with plenty of experience. Across 35 games, Salter accounted for 77 touchdowns (56 passing, 21 rushing) and led Liberty to multiple bowl appearances.

Deion’s confidence in his new starter is clear:
“Kaidon is unbelievable. Kaidon is off the chain. He can get the job done. I wouldn’t have brought him here if I didn’t trust him.”

Kaidon Salter career stats (Liberty 2021–24)

For Colorado, the key question is whether Salter can adapt quickly to a bigger stage and replicate the explosiveness Shedeur brought to the program.

Georgia Tech relying on Haynes King

On the other side, Georgia Tech brings back one of the ACC’s most reliable quarterbacks. Sixth-year senior Haynes King is entering his third season as the Yellow Jackets’ starter. His leadership has helped the program achieve consecutive winning seasons for the first time since 2013–14.

King was also picked second in ACC Preseason Player of the Year voting, just behind Clemson’s Cade Klubnik. His dual-threat ability gives coach Brent Key confidence that Georgia Tech can hang with anyone.

“It’s always good to open up the season against somebody that’s good, strong, and a talented football team,” King said. “That pushes your team to be the best as well.”

Haynes King at Georgia Tech (2023–24)

The matchup between Salter and King gives this opener an added layer of intrigue. Both quarterbacks are mobile, experienced, and thrive when plays break down.

Coaching matchup: Deion Sanders vs. Brent Key

The sidelines will also be a focal point. Deion Sanders enters his third season in Boulder having completely reshaped the Buffaloes with transfers, NFL-level star power, and a flair for media spotlight. His task now is to prove Colorado can win without Shedeur and Hunter.

Brent Key, meanwhile, has rebuilt Georgia Tech with discipline and consistency. After years of mediocrity, the Jackets finally feel stable, and their record-setting offense last year showed real progress.

Key called the opportunity to face Sanders “an honor” and praised the level of talent Colorado has assembled.

For bettors and analysts following college football picks, this coaching battle could determine the game — whether Sanders’ explosive approach or Key’s steadiness prevails.

Keys to victory

Colorado Buffaloes

• Establish Salter early: His confidence and rhythm will dictate the offense.
• Replace Hunter’s production: Colorado needs new stars at wide receiver and cornerback.
• Defense under pressure: Georgia Tech’s balanced attack will test Colorado’s secondary.

Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets

• Leverage King’s experience: Avoid turnovers and control tempo.
• Defensive containment: Keep Salter from extending plays with his legs.
• Capitalize in the red zone: Colorado’s defense can bend — Georgia Tech must finish drives.

Playoff and betting implications

While neither team enters the season as a national championship favorite, this opener carries weight in terms of confidence, rankings, and betting trends.

• Colorado: Can they prove they’re still a factor without their two NFL-bound stars?
• Georgia Tech: Can they show the ACC that their momentum is real?

For fans and bettors, the NFL expert betting guide provides context on how early-season matchups influence futures odds — especially when quarterbacks are transitioning into new roles.

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Prediction outlook

Colorado’s home-field advantage in Boulder is always tough for visiting teams. However, Salter’s inexperience with this roster could lead to early hiccups. Georgia Tech’s continuity with King may prove valuable in a tight contest.

Expect a back-and-forth battle, with Colorado looking to establish its new identity and Georgia Tech aiming to spoil the debut of the Kaidon Salter era.

Conclusion

The 2025 college football season begins with a fascinating clash between two programs linked by history but defined by change. Colorado enters a new era under Kaidon Salter, while Georgia Tech continues its steady climb with Haynes King.

For fans, this isn’t just about one win — it’s about measuring growth, identity, and potential playoff relevance. Both teams have something to prove, making Friday night in Boulder must-watch television.