Colorado football’s 2006 Texas Tech upset remains a Folsom classic

On October 14, 2006, Colorado football faced off against No. 10 ranked Texas Tech in a game that would go down in history as a classic at Folsom Field. Coming off a 10-game losing streak, the Buffaloes were on the verge of a breakthrough, and first-year coach Dan Hawkins finally secured his first victory in Boulder. Texas Tech entered the matchup with a 4-2 record and a potent offense averaging 31.7 points per game.

Colorado's Bernard Jackson stood out as the playmaker, completing 11 of 17 passes for 151 yards and two touchdowns. He connected with tight end Riar Geer for a 28-yard score and Jarrell Yates for a 29-yard touchdown in the second quarter. Jackson also found the end zone himself with a 1-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter, sealing the 30-6 victory.

Running back Hugh Charles added 119 yards on the ground, including a 74-yard run that was initially disallowed due to stepping out of bounds, but still contributed to Colorado's 228-31 rushing advantage.

Mason Crosby's field goals from 56, 26, and 53 yards contributed 12 points to the win, as Colorado never allowed Texas Tech to establish their Air Raid tempo. Safety Ryan Walters and defensive coordinator Mike Hawkins of the University of Washington each intercepted a pass, while quarterback Graham Harrell threw three interceptions.

Despite Texas Tech's late touchdown reception by Danny Amendola breaking up the shutout, Colorado's 30-6 win remains their largest margin of victory against Texas Tech. The postgame celebration among Folsom Field fans highlighted the game's significance, marking a turning point for Hawkins and the program following years of losses, scandals, and coaching changes.