Colorado coach Deion Sanders emphasized the importance of managing pressure during critical moments following his team’s first loss of the season. The Buffaloes, who previously defeated Nebraska 36-14 last year, suffered a disappointing 28-10 defeat on Saturday night, struggling offensively with their second-lowest scoring total under Sanders.
In the game, Colorado was unable to score in the first half, finishing with just 16 rushing yards. They fell behind early, trailing 14-0 after quarterback Shedeur Sanders threw an interception, which Nebraska’s Tommi Hill returned for a touchdown. Sanders acknowledged the interception as a “rookie mistake,” as the Buffaloes managed only 11 plays in the first quarter with a net gain of minus-2 yards.
Deion Sanders expressed dissatisfaction with the team’s performance, stating, “The way we started is just not indicative of who we are,” and lamented that his squad never found their footing.
Despite facing frequent pressure, Shedeur Sanders completed 23 of 38 passes for 244 yards, one touchdown, and one interception but was sacked five times and exited the game late in the fourth quarter after a helmet-to-helmet hit. He reported feeling “a little banged up” but fine overall, crediting Nebraska’s defensive line.
“Protections were a problem,” Sanders noted, highlighting the need to address the offensive line struggles without placing blame on his players. The Buffaloes struggled to establish a run game, with their running backs collectively recording just five carries for 16 yards through three quarters, failing to convert on two critical fourth-and-1 plays.
After finishing last in the FBS for rushing yards in 2023, the Buffaloes aim to improve their running game. Sanders remarked on the necessity for execution to enhance the offense’s consistency.
In discussing why Colorado’s offense faltered against Nebraska, Sanders stated, “I have no idea. If we would’ve known that answer, I think we would’ve responded quicker.” The Buffaloes trailed 28-0 by halftime after an unusual play resulted in a touchdown for Nebraska, highlighting their inability to capitalize on opportunities. He remarked on the bizarre nature of the play, considering it an instance of bad luck.
While Colorado’s defense did not allow any further scoring in the second half and forced five consecutive punts, the team committed numerous errors, including nine penalties for 104 yards and a blocked field goal attempt, inhibiting their ability to rally.
Shedeur Sanders committed to reevaluating their performance and working towards improvement as the Buffaloes prepare to face in-state rival Colorado State next Saturday, followed by their return to Big 12 conference action against Baylor on September 21. With a challenging schedule ahead, they will need to enhance their offensive consistency and scoring capability.
“We have a tremendous offense,” Deion Sanders declared. “We should be able to move the ball on anyone. We just couldn’t get it going today.”