When former Dallas Cowboys cornerback Deion Sanders arrived in Boulder, Colo., from Jackson State, he was looking at a program that had just won once in the previous season in 2022. Sanders brought along his two sons, quarterback Shedeur Sanders and safety Shilo Sanders, and two-way star Travis Hunter.
Straightaway, the Colorado Buffaloes won the first three games of their 2023 campaign, getting mainstream attention. However, they dwindled thereafter, ending their season 4-8. This called for a massive overhaul from Coach Prime, especially along their offensive line, the benefits of which they are reaping this season.
Skip Bayless Lauds Deion Sanders, but Not All Fans Are Buying the Hype
On Nov. 29, 2024, the Buffaloes ended their regular season with a blowout 52-0 win over the Oklahoma State Cowboys as they ended their regular season 9-3 overall and 7-2 in the Big 12. They currently occupy the top spot in the conference, though that does not account for the slate of games on Saturday, Nov. 30.
Colorado does not control its own destiny in the Big 12 and will await the upcoming Week 14 results to see if it will participate in the Big 12 Championship Game. After the Buffs’ Week 14 win, outspoken analyst Skip Bayless congratulated Coach Prime for the 9-3 season.
CONGRATS TO DEION SANDERS FOR A 9-3 SEASON, AFTER TAKING OVER A 1-WIN TEAM TWO YEARS AGO.
— Skip Bayless (@RealSkipBayless) November 29, 2024
However, not all fans are buying the notion. Some feel the conference isn’t as competitive.
“Big 12 is garbage,” one fan commented.
“They play anybody in the top 10 this year?? Just a question,” one fan added.
“WOOHOO, the worst power 4 conference in America, whose best team is ranked 16🥳🥳,” another posted.
However, others were consistent in lauding the program under Deion Sanders.
“Can’t deny it, Colorado had a special year!” another wrote.
“Respect,” one wrote.
“The haters have gone silent,” another added.
“He has definitely changed that organization,” one fan said, speaking highly of Coach Prime.
Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter Shine in Regular-Season Finale
The Colorado Buffaloes were entering the Week 14 game against the Oklahoma State Cowboys after dropping a pivotal Week 13 game against the Kansas Jayhawks. The surprise loss was a massive hit for the program looking to play in its first conference championship game since 2016 — and potentially a playoff spot too.
They took their anger out on the field, blowing out the Cowboys 52-0.
Quarterback Shedeur Sanders put weight behind his NFL Draft stock with an exceptional performance that saw him throw for 438 yards, five touchdowns, and one interception, completing 34 of 41 pass attempts.
Two of his wide receivers contributed with 100+ receiving yards. LaJohntay Wester recorded 11 receptions for 175 yards and two touchdowns. Meanwhile, Travis Hunter caught 10 for 116 yards and three touchdowns while also intercepting one pass on defense.
With its Big 12 title game hopes out of its hands, Colorado may now be looking ahead to its first bowl game appearance under Coach Prime, with the Alamo Bowl or Holiday Bowl considered likely candidates to see the Buffs in postseason play.