Deion Sanders’ Colorado Buffaloes are no longer in contention for a bowl game following a 29-22 loss to West Virginia, marking the second consecutive season with a losing record for the head coach. The defeat has ended the Buffaloes’ hopes of securing a postseason berth, with the team set to finish with a losing record for the second time in three seasons. Sanders, who has faced significant scrutiny over the performance of his squad, expressed frustration after the game, stating that the team’s production did not align with their potential and that there were players capable of performing better.
The team’s struggles have been exacerbated by the departures of key players, including quarterback Shedeur Sanders and two-way star Travis Hunter, both of whom left for the NFL in the wake of their stellar performances under the guidance of Deion Sanders. Despite these setbacks, Sanders has continued to make strategic moves, naming five-star freshman Julian Lewis as the team’s starting quarterback in a bid to revitalize the offense. However, this decision has now resulted in Lewis losing his redshirt status with just two games remaining in the season, further complicating the team’s prospects.
Additionally, Sanders has faced personal health challenges, including a bladder removal surgery due to a tumor, which he disclosed in July. He has since stated that there is no evidence of cancer remaining, and the procedure has been completed. Despite these obstacles, Sanders has remained steadfast in his commitment to the Buffaloes, even as he continues to navigate the difficulties of a challenging season. Colorado athletic director Rick George has expressed confidence in Sanders’ ability to improve the team, although the current season’s outcomes have not aligned with the high expectations set for the program.
With the team’s season now effectively over, the focus has shifted to addressing the underlying issues that have plagued the Buffaloes’ performance this year. The coaching staff, including Sanders, must now determine how to rebuild and regroup, particularly in light of the absences of key players and the challenges faced by the quarterback position. There is also the matter of Sanders’ health, which, while not a direct factor in the team’s performance on the field, has been a source of concern for fans and observers alike. As the season comes to a close, the future of the Buffaloes will depend on the ability of the coaching staff to implement effective strategies and rebuild the program to meet the expectations set by their high-profile head coach.