Known for his neon swagger and big-stage presence, has never shied away from making bold decisions. But this Deion Sanders move has sparked a heated debate among headset holders. For some, this is another chapter in Coach Prime’s narrative of principle and loyalty. For others, it’s a gamble that jeopardizes the future of two potential NFL stars.

The controversy gained traction during a FOX Sports Radio segment, where co-host Rob Parker called ‘the move’ unnecessary. “If they were playing in the College Football Playoff, sure, go for it,” Parker said, “but for a meaningless bowl game? “You’re gonna put Shedeur Sanders & Travis Hunter’s careers in jeopardy to play in a meaningless game?” Which came after decision by coach Prime to play his now CFB stars, QB1 Shedeur Sanders and the adaptive Travis Hunter, in the Colorado’s Bowl game. When asked the question in a presser about whether the game against Oklahoma State tomorrow will be the duo’s last for now No. 23 8-3 Black and Gold jersey? To which he replies, “No, we got a bowl game. I’m pretty sure we secured that weeks ago for Peggy. So no, it’s not the last time you’re going to see them in a Buff uniform.” His co-host, Kelvin Washington, echoed a more nuanced perspective, acknowledging the importance of finishing what you start. “Deion’s been preaching family, unity, and integrity. For Shedeur and Travis, this is about more than just football. It’s about values they’ve been raised with,” Washington argued.

Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter are no ordinary college athletes. Shedeur, Coach Prime’s son, has been a force of center for Colorado, while Hunter’s two-way brilliance as a cornerback and wide receiver has made him one of the most electrifying players in college football. Both are projected as first-round picks in the NFL Draft. With teams like Cowboys, Giants, and Raiders on the doorstep almost every day. Critics, like the FOX radio hosts’, worry that an injury in a lower-stakes game could diminish their draft stock. Yet, Hunter and Sanders have displayed a mindset that mirrors their coach’s teachings—commitment to their team and its rise from mediocrity.

The Buffs’ resurgence under Deion Sanders has been nothing short of remarkable. Colorado, a program that was an afterthought just a few years ago, now holds an 8-3 record and is bowl-eligible for the first time in years. As Deion Sanders said in a press conference. “It’s about showing up for our fans, our team, and the work we’ve put in.” Sanders has consistently framed this decision as a reflection of his broader philosophy, emphasizing that football is about relationships and honor, not just personal gain.

Still, the risks are real. Injuries can happen at any moment in football, and Washington argued that both players are talented enough to maintain their draft status even after a setback, As the hosts’ cautioned. “We’re talking about millions of dollars and lifelong opportunities,” they said. “Is it worth risking all that for one game?” While the Buffs’ College Football Playoff hopes took a hit with last week’s upset loss to Kansas, they can steal make the Big 12 championship and have a chance to get an automatic bid to the CFP if they win in the title game. So, the veteran coach surely must know what he’s on about, and it’s not just their boys the these big league teams are after.

Will Deion Sanders himself be able to resist returning to the NFL?

The former NFL HOFer has been adamant about staying in the college football world, but the chatter about him potentially eyeing the NFL—especially iconic teams like the Dallas Cowboys or New York Giants—just won’t quit. Joel Klatt chimed in, “I think it would be really hard for him to turn down the New York Giants or the Dallas Cowboys, those brands,” Let’s be real: the pull of brands as big as the Cowboys or Giants could be a game-changer, even for someone as steadfast as Sanders.

That said, Deion hadn’t exactly left the door open. He’s publicly dismissed the idea of leaving his current role multiple times, emphasizing his commitment to shaping young athletes. But with the Cowboys’ coaching situation constantly under scrutiny and the Giants navigating rough waters, the speculation continues to heat up. Klatt even mentioned on The Herd that while Sanders is focused on Colorado now, those “massive brands” could tempt anyone.

Ultimately, the decision to play rests with Shedeur and Hunter and the coach himself.