The Colorado Buffaloes football team is struggling significantly since the departure of starting quarterback Shedeur Sanders to the NFL in April. Currently playing for the Cleveland Browns, Shedeur witnessed the ongoing challenges his former team faced during their recent game against Arizona, where he was present on the sidelines as his father, head coach Deion Sanders, made significant roster changes.
In the game held Saturday night in Boulder, Deion Sanders opted to bench Kaidon Salter, Colorado’s regular starting quarterback, during a particularly troubling first half. Salter completed 11 of 15 passes for only 49 yards, alongside a fumble and an interception, as the Buffaloes fell behind with a staggering score of 38-7 by halftime. This prompted the coach to substitute backup quarterback Ryan Staub into the action with just 21 seconds remaining in the half.
Salter, a transfer from Liberty, has struggled to deliver consistent performances, contributing to Colorado’s disappointing 3-5 record this season. This poor showing echoed the decision Deion made earlier this season when he benched Salter in favor of Staub during a game against Houston, which resulted in a 36-20 defeat. The Buffaloes have faced a tough stretch, being outscored 81-7 in the first half of their last two matchups.
The change in quarterbacks did not immediately yield positive results, as Staub threw an interception on his second play of the game early in the third quarter. Subsequently, Deion Sanders turned to freshman quarterback Julian “JuJu” Lewis, who entered with the Buffaloes trailing 45-7. Lewis managed to throw a 59-yard touchdown pass to receiver Omarion Miller, giving fans a glimmer of hope as Colorado adjusted the score to 45-14.
This current season has been challenging for the Buffaloes, especially following the success Shedeur Sanders brought to the team, leading them to a 9-4 record last year. The overall struggle on the field highlights how vital Shedeur was to the team and the adjustments they must make moving forward. As the season progresses, the Buffaloes will be hoping for a turnaround, drawing on the potential of their younger players to restore strength to the team.