Deion Sanders’ Colorado Buffaloes suffered their third loss of the season against the Kansas Jayhawks on Saturday, but it hasn’t dented his popularity. Critics continue speculating on where Coach Prime might coach next.
The Buffaloes have doubled their wins from last season under Sanders, solidifying his reputation as a successful head coach. While some suggest an NFL gig, others are envisioning a different path, perhaps leading an SEC powerhouse like LSU.
Stephen A. Smith Suggests LSU as Coach Prime’s Next Move
The omnipresent Stephen A. Smith believes Sanders would shine on a bigger stage, specifically as LSU’s head coach. Smith floated other SEC programs like Alabama, Florida, and Texas A&M as potential options, but he insists LSU would be the perfect fit, especially with current head coach Brian Kelly reportedly on the hot seat.
Acknowledging Sanders’ popularity in Boulder, Smith apologized to Buffs fans before sharing his opinion during First Take on ESPN: “I just think there’s a bigger scene that’s meant for him [Deion]. That’s the thing. I thought if Nick Saban ever stepped away, it should be him, but I knew Alabama wouldn’t do that. But I’ve thought about Florida, I thought about Texas A&M, and now I’m thinking about LSU.”
Stephen A. Smith says he could see Colorado Head Coach Deion Sanders becoming the Future Head Man at #LSU in the near future👇👇intriguing…. pic.twitter.com/yZHk6Uzy4T
— Lonn Phillips Sullivan (@LonnPhillips) November 24, 2024
Smith argued that Sanders at LSU would be a game-changer for recruiting, adding, “Prime at LSU with his ability to recruit? Oh my lord, have mercy. I mean, that’s something to think about. If not the NFL, just not Boulder, Colorado.”
Smith doesn’t see Sanders staying at Colorado for long. Why? Because a program like LSU would offer a better pay, a stronger support system, and the resources to recruit top-tier talent.
Brian Kelly on the Hot Seat
LSU broke their three-game losing streak with a 24-17 win over Vanderbilt in Week 13, giving coach Kelly some relief. But rumors of his firing persist after a disappointing 7-4 season.
The Tigers’ upcoming game against Oklahoma could determine Kelly’s fate. If LSU parts ways with Kelly, Sanders could emerge as a top candidate to restore the team’s glory.
Coach Prime Focused on Colorado
Despite the rumors, Sanders has expressed his commitment to Colorado, dismissing talk of a move. He recently landed five-star recruit and ESPN’s No. 2-ranked QB, Julian Lewis, as the future of the Buffs. Sanders has said he’s excited to mentor Lewis, who will likely replace Shedeur Sanders once he heads to the NFL next season.
Coach Prime weighs in on the commitment of Julian Lewis to Colorado:
“I can’t wait to be apart of his life and coach him.”
PRIME NOT GOIN NOWHERE! pic.twitter.com/jQvpFaldVc
— GUCCE🦬🐦⬛ (@gucceCU) November 21, 2024
Coach Prime seems content in Boulder, focusing on building a legacy with the Buffaloes. So, for now, LSU and NFL speculations can wait.