Shedeur Sanders may have started Week 12’s clash against the Utah Utes with a hiccup, but he finished the day reminding everyone why he’s the leader of the No. 17 Colorado Buffaloes. There were some ‘Giants’ notables who came to see him play. Collectively, Deion Sanders and crew picked up their fourth straight win after defeating the Utes 49-24 at Folsom Field.
The senior quarterback, who typically threads defenses like a tailor on a deadline, stumbled on the very first play. His opening pass landed not in the hands of a teammate but those of Utah’s Lander Barton, gifting the Utes prime field position. It wasn’t exactly the start Sanders had in mind, but what came next is a testament to his character—and his team’s resilience. Speaking candidly after the game, Sanders didn’t shy away from the spotlight—or the blame. “I’m gonna have a talk with the whole offense,” he shared. “Apologize for my performance out there at the very beginning because I can’t put the team in that type of situation. I’m thankful for the defense. I may have to take them out to dinner this week for saving me and saving the team.” Now, that’s leadership served with a side of humility.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Shedeur Sanders holds himself accountable for the Colorado Buffaloes early offensive struggles vs. Utah
“I’ma have a talk with the whole offense and apologize for my performance out there at the very beginning.” pic.twitter.com/PWeEr3ExJd
— NoSkoZone (@noskozone) November 16, 2024
Mr. 2Legendary’s initial blunder set the tone for a rocky start, but Colorado’s defense came to the rescue, holding Utah to just a field goal on their ensuing drive. That pivotal stand energized the Buffaloes, who regrouped to dismantle the Utes. It was the team’s fourth consecutive win, a streak that speaks volumes about their collective grit and ability to rally when things don’t go as planned. Postgame the Heisman contender highlighted what makes Colorado special: balance. “When you have a good team overall, it’s complimentary football,” Shedeur Sanders explained.
His words reflect a deep appreciation for the team’s ability to perform as a cohesive unit, especially when one phase stumbles. The dude signed off in Boulder with a solid box score, completing 30-of-41 passes for 340 yards, three touchdowns, and a fumble. His partner in crime, Travis Hunter, added five catches for 55 yards, a rushing score and a pick. We know how the conversation is going to be with Dad Prime on the way back home though. And a former NFL scout has cast a shadow over these moments and on his ever-rising expectations.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Daniel Kelly could’ve spoiled Shedeur Sanders’ mood with this one
Former NFL scout Daniel Kelly had some sharp takes on Shedeur Sanders, urging NFL teams to pump the brakes on the hype. Kelly pointed out his cautious decisions under pressure, citing a whopping 135 career sacks, including 77 last year at Jackson State. The issue? Slow mental processing, according to Kelly, which could be a deal breaker in the NFL’s fast-paced game. Critics also flagged Sanders’ tendency to wait for receivers to finish their routes, something pro defenses won’t let slide. It’s food for thought for NFL scouts!
The insiders say the signal caller’s timing needs work, noting he often waits for receivers to finish their routes instead of throwing before the break—a must at the NFL level. “NFL quarterbacks have to anticipate, not react,” Kelly emphasized. It’s a skill gap that could make life tough against sharper pro defenses.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Big words considering NY Giants GM Joe Schoen watched the game. For now, his self-critique and promise of a dinner date for his defense were endearing. And the ability to bounce back truly is impressive.
Have something to say?
Let the world know your perspective.
Debate
Can Shedeur Sanders silence critics like Daniel Kelly with his performance, or are the concerns valid?
What’s your perspective on:
Can Shedeur Sanders silence critics like Daniel Kelly with his performance, or are the concerns valid?
Have an interesting take?