The Thursday night primetime kickoff helped a national audience see Colorado’s season-opening win at Georgia Tech, but the Big 12 is making sure no one quickly forgets.

The Buffaloes were well-represented on the conference’s first weekly awards of the 2026 season, with Lamont Lester Jr. winning Big 12 co-defensive player of the week, while safety Boo Carter earned co-special teams player of the week.

The CU defensive line as a whole was recognized as the conference’s defensive line of the week.

Lester, a transfer from Monmouth, recorded all three of the Buffs’ sacks in the 14-13 win in Atlanta, helping lead the way in a defensive performance that featured just two field goals (the Yellow Jackets’ lone touchdown came on special teams) and 288 yards allowed.

Carter blocked a game-winning 48-yard field goal attempt as time expired, capping a dramatic comeback win that featured a touchdown pass from quarterback Julian Lewis to tight end Charlie Williams in the final minute.

The Tennessee transfer also recovered a fumble on defense and returned two punts for a total of eight yards in his Buffs debut.

CU hosts Weber State on Saturday (1:30 p.m. ESPN+) in the team’s home opener.