Deion Sanders Outshines LeBron, Mahomes: College Football Goes Prime Time



by NOUMAN RASOOL

Deion Sanders Outshines LeBron, Mahomes: College Football Goes Prime Time
Deion Sanders Outshines LeBron, Mahomes: College Football Goes Prime Time © Dustin Bradford/Getty Images

The reimagined Colorado Buffaloes, under the guidance of the indomitable Deion Sanders, have burst out of the gates this college football season with an impeccable 3-0 record. Their recent ascent to the No. 19 spot in the Associated Press Top 25 poll is a testament to Sanders' transformative prowess.

Shedeur Sanders, one of the dynamic sons of 'Coach Prime', played a pivotal role in the team's sensational 43-35 double-overtime victory against Colorado State. But it's not just his son who's drawing attention. Sanders Sr. has once again become an American sports sensation, eclipsing even his past glories.

Remember, this is the same Deion Sanders - the iconic 'Coach Prime' - celebrated for his dual exploits in both the NFL Super Bowl and MLB World Series. And he hasn't stopped there. His influence has garnered support from NBA legends LeBron James and Kawhi Leonard to hip-hop artist Offset.

His magnetism was evident in the pre-game festivities. “They've got a live buffalo mascot, Lil Wayne, and Coach Prime setting the stage on fire," remarked Colorado safety and another of Sanders' sons, Shilo. The atmosphere was electrifying, the Buffaloes' rebirth evident.

Sanders' Moves Spark Controversy

Yet, not everyone cheered Sanders' audacious moves. His radical overhaul of the Buffaloes' roster for the 2023 season faced scrutiny and sometimes outright disdain. His endorsement of the NCAA transfer portal and the Name, Image, and Likeness era was equally contentious.

Sanders took a gamble leaving Jackson State University, where he'd crafted an impressive 27-6 record over three seasons. Many eagerly anticipated his downfall in 2023. But thus far, he's silenced critics, turning Colorado football into the talk of the nation.

The Buffaloes' resurgence has overshadowed even renowned programs like Nick Saban’s Alabama Crimson Tide, who've started with a less than stellar 2-1 this season. Last Saturday’s game was a testament to Colorado's grit and determination.

Facing a daunting 28-17 deficit in the fourth quarter, the Buffaloes turned the tide, sealing a hard-fought victory. Folsom Field was alive with energy, hosting an overflowing crowd of 53,141 fans. It's clear that under Sanders, Colorado football has become a sensation.

As they gear up for upcoming matches against formidable opponents, their momentum seems unstoppable. The Buffaloes’ past struggles feel like a distant memory, with "Coach Prime" bringing back the golden days reminiscent of the 1990s era led by Kordell Stewart.

As Colorado prepares for its transition to the Big 12 next year, the only real challenge may be maintaining this meteoric rise amidst stiffer competition. Yet, given Sanders' track record and the newfound verve of the Buffaloes, betting against them might not be wise.