The Buffs had an abysmal start to Saturday’s Alamo Bowl against the BYU Cougars, but Colorado’s defensive unit came up big on two occasions.
On the second-to-last play of the first quarter, cornerback DJ McKinney intercepted a deep pass on a trick play that had BYU backup quarterback Gerry Bohanon letting it fly off a reverse. McKinney returned the pick 25 yards, but the Buffaloes couldn’t capitalize as Alejandro Mata missed a 48-yard field goal on the ensuing drive.
In the second quarter, a deflected BYU shovel pass was tipped into the air and caught by Colorado defensive tackle Anquin Barnes Jr. It was the former Alabama Crimson Tide lineman’s first career interception.
Unfortunately for Colorado, its next offensive possession resulted in a three-and-out, and the Cougars returned the ensuing punt for a touchdown.
Following an eventful first half at the Alamodome, Colorado entered its locker room down 20-0.
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