Deion Sanders, head coach of Colorado football, celebrated a triumphant conclusion to the regular season with a resounding 52-0 victory over Oklahoma State. This win propelled the Buffaloes to a stellar 9-3 record, finishing first in the Big 12 Conference with a league record of 7-2.
Travis Hunter, a standout two-way player, showcased a remarkable performance that Sanders believes has solidified his chance for the Heisman Trophy. Hunter’s stats included three touchdowns, an interception, 10 receptions for 116 yards, two pass breakups, and one tackle, exemplifying his versatility on the field. Sanders highlighted the rarity of players like Hunter who can make significant contributions on both sides of the ball, stating, “How many times have you seen that in college football?”
Looking ahead, uncertainty looms for the Buffaloes’ postseason aspirations, hinging on the outcomes of three other Big 12 teams’ games on Saturday. To play for the Big 12 championship, Colorado needs at least two of those teams to lose, or a specific combination of wins and losses among the others. Sanders mentioned he prefers to stay positive and not fret over other teams’ outcomes, expressing his intention to enjoy time off, possibly indulging in winter activities.
Regardless of their potential bowl game destination, Sanders assured fans that key players, including Hunter and quarterback Shedeur Sanders, would participate in the bowl game, emphasizing the team’s commitment to complete their season strong. “Our kids are gonna play in our bowl game, because that’s what we signed up to do and we’re gonna finish,” he stated.
The matchup against Oklahoma State marked the last home game for the Sanders family together at Folsom Field, with both Shedeur and his brother Shilo in their final year of college eligibility. Reflecting on the journey, Deion Sanders expressed gratitude for the time spent coaching his sons, acknowledging how fleeting such moments can be.
Additionally, Shedeur plans to support Hunter at the Heisman Trophy ceremony on December 14. Deion also made a passionate case for Hunter’s candidacy, emphasizing his historic performance and impact on the team amidst a substantial turnaround from last season’s struggles.
Sanders concluded by calling on the media to support the team’s narrative, highlighting how their success benefits everyone involved in the sport. “Everybody wins,” he noted, proposing a collaborative effort to maintain the momentum the Buffaloes have built this season.
This season offers a beacon of hope for the Colorado football program, demonstrating a remarkable revival with a bright future ahead. With dedicated players and strong leadership, the Buffaloes are set to continue their journey, aiming for excellence in both their upcoming games and beyond.