Deion Sanders’ impact at Colorado has never been subtle. But as the Buffaloes head into the 2026 season, the results have been uneven enough that CBS Sports writer Chip Patterson assigned Sanders a C+ grade in his three-year review.
For all the good Sanders has brought to Boulder with national visibility, elite level recruits and next-level buzz, this season exposed real shortcomings that must be addressed if Colorado is to move forward.
The most pressing issue has been in-game coaching. Clock management and timeout usage repeatedly became postgame talking points, with missed opportunities swinging momentum and, at times, outcomes. Holding timeouts too long or burning them prematurely stalled drives and left the Buffaloes scrambling late. That aspect of game management must take a significant step forward in 2026.
The Buffs roster construction also proved to be hit or miss. Sanders’ quick rebuild model relies heavily on portal success, but this offseason’s additions failed to elevate key areas. The pursuit of Liberty quarterback Kaidon Salter did not pan out, and position groups such as the offensive line, running back and defensive line remained weaknesses. The approach only works when evaluations and staff alignment are airtight, and this cycle fell short.
Staff decisions loom as another pressure point. Player development has lagged at multiple positions, and elite recruits have not consistently progressed. Offensive coordinator Pat Shurmur was demoted and fired. While the defense regressed after an opportunistic 2024 season under Robert Livingston. Conversations about change appear unavoidable and a work-in-progress.
“The Buffs cashed in on the influx of talent that arrived with Sanders in the form of a nine-win season in 2024,” Patterson wrote, “but the surrounding four- and three-win seasons leave the three-year grade somewhat middling.”
Despite speculation, Sanders has publicly insisted he plans to remain at Colorado, even while acknowledging the toll of the job and his health issues. Former athletic director Rick George recently reiterated that Sanders’ job is not in jeopardy. But staying and succeeding are different challenges.
Coach Prime’s fourth season with the Colorado Buffaloes opens Sept. 5 at Georgia Tech.
