Colorado Turns to Experience at QB for Friday Night Opener Against Georgia Tech
Colorado is leaning on veteran leadership at quarterback as it opens the season on Friday night against Georgia Tech. Head coach Deion Sanders announced Kaidon Salter, a fifth-year transfer from Liberty, as the starter for the opener, edging out freshman Julian Lewis. Sanders emphasized that Lewis will still get reps, continuing a two-quarterback approach early in the season.
Salter brings a lengthy track record to Boulder, having started 29 games in his college career. Sanders has described him as a dual-threat quarterback who can make plays with both his arm and legs. “He’s the guy. His experience is vital,” Sanders said, noting Salter’s strong camp and spring performances and giving a nod to quarterbacks coach Byron Leftwich for his work with Salter.
Last season at Liberty, Salter threw for 1,886 yards with 15 touchdowns and six interceptions while adding 587 rushing yards and seven rushing scores, helping the Flames go 8-4. Teammates around Salter have praised his leadership. Sophomore receiver Dre’Ion Miller spoke to Salter’s blunt, direct approach and ability to get receivers open, while also acknowledging Julian Lewis’ potential and the broader impact Salter’s presence could have on the offense.
Colorado is expected to be more balanced on offense this season, especially with Shedeur Sanders no longer lining up under center and star defender Travis Hunter moving on to the pro ranks. The Buffaloes finished last in rushing in the nation last season, a statistic the staff is eager to improve as the offense evolves.
Lewis knows his role and what the future holds, Sanders indicated, adding that the team’s approach is transparent and straightforward. Sanders also addressed a separate, personal topic: the release of his son Shilo from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after an ejection in a preseason game. Sanders said he’s proud of his kids and positioned for whatever comes next, stressing that the family will be fine with or without football.
What to watch Friday is how Salter’s experience translates into the game plan and how much Lewis contributes in relief roles. The combination could provide Colorado with a smoother transition as it navigates a deeper, more experienced offense while addressing last season’s rushing woes.
Summary: Colorado names Kaidon Salter the starter for Friday’s opener, with Julian Lewis as an active backup. Salter’s experience and leadership could stabilize a revamped offense as the program shifts after departures of Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter. The team also faces the broader backdrop of Shilo Sanders’ NFL situation, which Sanders framed as a family matter handled with optimism and resilience.
Commentary: The decision underscores Colorado’s emphasis on veteran leadership in a season that will test coaching continuity and offensive adaptation. If Salter can connect quickly with receivers and manage the pace of the game, Colorado could establish a more balanced attack early, easing the pressure on a young roster. A positive early showing could build momentum for a season that many expect to be transformational under the current regime.
Note: If you’d like, I can tailor this rewrite to a specific tone (more formal, more conversational) or add a quick sidebar with key stats for Salter and Lewis.