For Colorado Buffs and BYU Cougars, the Alamo Bowl isn’t just a football game—it’s a proving ground. Deion Sanders-led Buffaloes are looking to cap off a season that’s been equal parts meteoric rise and media circus, while Kalani Sitake’s Cougars are here to show they’re more than just Big 12 bridesmaids. The Buffs and Cougars both finished the regular season ranked at No. 23 and No. 17 respectively. Neither team made the College Football Playoffs. And while this one’s played under a dome, Mother Nature is always watching from the sidelines.

The Boulder side has been locked in for the past month preparing for their first bowl game of the Coach Prime era while occasionally sneaking off to receive an award or two. Saturday in San Antonio offers prime football weather, with partly cloudy skies and highs near 80 degrees. It’s the kind of day that reminds you why Texas is called the Lone Star State—the warmth and charm of December in the South feel worlds apart from the chill creeping into Denver. It’s football weather, one might argue, but only for the fans roaming outside the Alamodome. For the players, the controlled climate inside will create the perfect canvas for a fast-paced, mistake-free game. That said, the heat outside could impact warmups as players and coaches adjust to conditions they haven’t faced in weeks.

Contrast that with the scene back in Denver, where fans are layering up to enjoy the game at patios or sports bars. Mid-50s and dry might not sound too bad for December, but it’s a stark reminder that Colorado is worlds away from the balmy Texas winter. And for those in Denver hoping to recreate the electric atmosphere of the dome, it’s a chance to bring some Rocky Mountain grit to a Southern showdown.

While the weather in San Antonio is more picturesque than problematic, the psychological edge it provides cannot be ignored. For Colorado, being considered the home team brings familiarity, but San Antonio is much closer to BYU’s Utah roots than Boulder. The Cougars, after all, thrive in adaptability; their season has been defined by resilience, and mild weather isn’t going to faze them. But for Deion Sanders and Co, every detail is a competitive advantage, and you better believe he’ll remind his team to embrace their comfort and capitalize on it.

Ultimately, the weather—both inside the dome and out—sets the stage for a game where nothing else should get in the way of high-level football. When Shedeur Sanders takes the field against BYU’s versatile Jake Retzlaff, fans will see a battle of contrasting styles. Colorado’s electrifying passing game meets BYU’s bruising run game, and while natural elements won’t interfere, the players’ preparation in different climates might, and the weather? Just another silent spectator.

Don’t know about the weather, But Deion Sanders got his boys covered

Okay, so, clean weather check, signature cleats check, securing insurance? Well, CU and Neon Deon got you covered. CU announced that NFL-bound QB1 Shedeur Sanders and Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter have secured record-breaking insurance coverage with the rest of the squad as well. Allowing the dynamic duo to play rather than sit out to prepare for the NFL draft. It’s a game-changing move—literally.

While the exact dollar amounts remain under the sheets due to privacy laws, both Coach Deion Sanders and Athletic Director Rick George confirmed it’s the largest coverage in college football history. That’s right, folks, we’re talking uncharted territory here. “We happen to have two players that are probably going to be the first two picks of the NFL draft,” Coach Prime said confidently on Monday. “They’ve received the highest number of coverage ever in this game, far exceeding anyone who’s played college football.”

This bold move speaks volumes about Colorado’s commitment to its players and their futures. While you basking in San Antonio sunshine or braving the brisk Denver air, this game is covered in every sense. Although the weather won’t impact the game, you can expect some lighting plays on the field.