When Deion Sanders took over as head coach of the Colorado Buffaloes, expectations were high, but few envisioned such a meteoric rise in a short span. Behind the glitz and glam of it all sits a combination of magnetic leadership and an ability to develop both future first-rounders and rotational under-the-radar contributors. And with just a few short weeks left in the 2024 campaign, Sanders’ Buffaloes sit in an awfully fortuitous position as winter arrives.
But how did we get here?
Sanders is the heartbeat of Colorado’s resurgence—not just as a football program, but as a university once heralded for its success. His charisma and relentless drive have not only transformed the Buffaloes’ culture but have also made Boulder a premier destination for blue-chip talent. With a philosophy that blends a win-now mentality with a deep commitment to player development, his impact has remained overwhelmingly evident in how Colorado competes in all three phases.
At the center of it all is Shedeur Sanders, a projected top-10 pick who has become one of the most electrifying players in college football. Away from his confidence, poise, and natural talent, his ability to read coverage and dissect seemingly every defense he’s faced this fall has moved the needle when it comes to draft stock. Sanders has also demonstrated the ability to produce in crucial moments, a clutch gene if you will, that sets him apart in high-pressure moments.
On the outside, and at corner, Travis Hunter is not just Colorado’s most versatile weapon, he’s the most valuable player in college football… at least in my book. And frankly, the Heisman race shouldn’t be close.
A former five-star recruit and two-way phenom, Hunter excels in whatever role he’s asked to fill. His ability to change the game on both sides of the line of scrimmage is something we’ve never seen before, at any level of the sport. He’s routinely risen to the occasion in marquee matchups and is a flat-out superstar whose presence alone forces opposing coaches to game-plan around him in both phases.
However, while Sanders and Hunter dominate headlines, Colorado’s success has been bolstered by a host of under-the-radar contributors.
LaJohntay Wester
LaJohntay Wester has quietly emerged as a vital cog in Colorado’s offense. A former standout during his four seasons at Florida Atlantic, Wester’s move to the Big 12 has seen his skill set evolve and his NFL draft stock rise. While Wester doesn’t ‘wow’ with his mass or contested catch ability, his creativity, explosiveness, and versatility have showcased one of the country’s most underrated playmakers.
Cam’Ron Silmon-Craig
Cam’Ron Silmon-Craig has been a revelation for Colorado’s defense. A physical presence in the secondary, he’s a jolt of electricity with the ability to knock opponents off their feet. And along with his play all over the Colorado defense, it’s been his leadership that has remained instrumental in shutting down some of the Big 12’s top offenses.
Preston Hodge
At nickel, Preston Hodge, a Liberty transfer, has quietly become one of Colorado’s most important defenders. It’s not easy to win in the slot, but holstering varying skill sets while also contributing in run support has made him a fun player to study this fall.
With the expanded 12-team playoff, Colorado’s path looks clearer than ever. While you won’t find a long list of matchups that move the needle analytically for the CFP committee, the lack of recent success from other headlining Big 12 foes has placed the Buffaloes in a spot to jump BYU should the cards be dealt in their favor.
In totality, Deion Sanders has done more than build a winning roster—he’s built a program that resonates on a national scale. His ability to attract top recruits, maximize player potential, and instill a winning culture has transformed Colorado in ways that extend deep below the surface.
As the Buffaloes charge toward a potential playoff berth, one thing is clear: Colorado football is back. With Shedeur Sanders, Hunter, and a supporting cast of emerging stars, Coach Prime has not only positioned the Buffaloes as a team to watch as the regular season comes to a close but is a unit that will absolutely want to make a statement should they get into the first installment of the 12-team CFP.
