Deion Sanders received a C+ grade for his three seasons at Colorado, according to CBS Sports writer Chip Patterson’s recent coaching review.
The Buffaloes are heading into the 2026 season with mixed results under Sanders. His impact brought national attention, top recruits and major buzz to Boulder. But this past season exposed problems that need fixing.
Clock management became a major issue. Sanders struggled with timeout usage throughout games. The team held timeouts too long or used them too early, which hurt drives and left Colorado scrambling late in games.
These mistakes cost the Buffaloes momentum and sometimes changed outcomes entirely.
Roster construction through the transfer portal didn’t work as planned. Sanders’ rebuilding strategy depends heavily on portal additions. This offseason’s moves failed to strengthen key positions.
The pursuit of Liberty quarterback Kaidon Salter fell through. The offensive line, running back corps and defensive line stayed weak spots. The portal approach only succeeds when evaluations and coaching staff decisions align perfectly.
This cycle missed that mark.
Staff changes created more pressure points. Player development lagged across multiple position groups. Elite recruits haven’t progressed consistently under current coaching.
Offensive coordinator Pat Shurmur was demoted, then fired. The defense regressed after an opportunistic 2024 season under Robert Livingston. More staff conversations appear inevitable.
“The Buffs cashed in on the influx of talent that arrived with Sanders in the form of a nine-win season in 2024, but the surrounding four- and three-win seasons leave the three-year grade somewhat middling.”
Patterson wrote in his analysis.
Sanders has publicly stated he plans to stay at Colorado despite ongoing speculation about his future. He’s acknowledged both the job’s demands and his health concerns. Former athletic director Rick George recently said Sanders’ job isn’t in danger.
But staying and succeeding present different challenges entirely.
Coach Prime’s fourth season with Colorado opens Sept. 5 at Georgia Tech.
