Colorado deals with extreme weather at UCF, kickoff delayed

Colorado faces a unique challenge as it prepares for UCF in Orlando, where the aftermath of Hurricane Helene has led to extreme humidity and unstable weather in the area.

The hurricane made landfall Thursday evening near Tallahassee in Florida’s Big Bend region, causing widespread damage. Even though the worst of the storm has passed, it has left behind conditions that make playing difficult. Temperatures for the game are expected to be in the high 80s, but it’s the high humidity that will test the Colorado Buffaloes.

Kickoff, originally scheduled for 3:30 p.m. ET, has been pushed back 50 minutes to 4:20 p.m. ET, giving players a little more time to prepare for the expected thunderstorms that could occur early in the game.

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Colorado goes into the duel as underdogs and will face UCF for the first time ever. UCF, accustomed to Florida’s climate, could have an advantage in dealing with the extreme weather conditions.

The Buffs, on the other hand, are used to the dry, high-altitude climate of Boulder. Playing in the heavy, humid air could affect their endurance, especially toward the end of the game when fatigue sets in. The coaching staff will likely emphasize hydration and more frequent player rotations to combat the exhausting conditions.

Beyond the weather, the game itself is significant for Colorado as they look to make a statement against a strong UCF team. With unpredictable Florida weather and a delayed kickoff, the Buffaloes will have to adapt quickly if they want to beat both the elements and their opponent.