Colorado defeated Iowa State 24-17 on Saturday in Week 7, with the Buffaloes' defense forcing critical turnovers late in the contest. The home team covered the 3-point spread in a defensive struggle that finished under the 52.5-point total.

Colorado quarterback Kaidon Salter led the offensive effort, completing 255 passing yards. His most explosive play came in the third quarter when he connected with Omarion Miller on a 70-yard touchdown pass. Salter also orchestrated a crucial fourth-quarter drive, completing a 38-yard pass to Joseph Williams to set up scoring opportunities.

Iowa State mounted early offensive challenges, with quarterback Rocco Becht connecting with Eli Green on a 21-yard completion in the second quarter. However, the Cyclones' passing attack broke down in the fourth quarter, with Becht throwing critical interceptions to Colorado's Tawfiq Byard that effectively sealed the game.

Colorado's defense made the decisive plays when it mattered most, forcing turnovers to preserve the victory at home. The game saw 16 lead changes, creating a competitive back-and-forth contest before the Buffaloes pulled away late.