What’s the outlook for Deion Sanders and the Colorado Buffaloes in the Big 12 this season? The program’s athletic director, Rick George, has already stated that this transition “has to do with a lot more than just money” as it’ll provide more exposure. But then, some naysayers have already predicted Colorado’s downfall in their new conference. 

“It’s gonna get dark for Colorado,” a coach said of Colorado’s transition. According to a report by The Athletic, six different Pac-12 coaches and coordinators have no hope for Colorado’s success in 2024, even predicting that they’ll fare worse than last season’s dismal record. However, George clearly understands his expectations for the Buffs in 2024 as a Big 12 member.

Adam Munsterteiger from BuffStampede.com contacted AD Rick George on July 26 to discuss Deion Sanders’ new Big 12 program. In an exclusive interview on the BuffStampede Podcast, George discussed his expectations for the Buffs this upcoming season. He said, “We want to compete for the Big 12 Championship. That’s what we should be thinking about and competing to get into the CFP and those should be our goals every year and that’s what I know we’re going to focus on.”

With the Buffs transitioning to the Big 12 this season, everybody is watching Deion Sanders closely to see if he could fare better in the new conference than his 4-8 record in the Pac-12. George voiced every Buffs’ goal, “We want to be relevant in the Big 12 and we want to be competitive.” As far as fixing their holes is concerned, Deion Sanders has put in quite an effort in both recruitment and training. 

Will Deion Sanders and the Buffs reach the Big 12 Championship?

Colorado fell last season primarily because of its poor offense, which led Deion Sanders to recruit elite players to the O-line, including 5-star OT Jordan Seaton. Besides that, their training has taken on a new level of intensity and vigor, and people who are watching the program this offseason join Rick George in expecting Deion Sanders and the Buffs to win the Big 12. 

FOX Sports analyst Joel Klatt also has high hopes for Colorado this season. Even Coach Prime replied with “most definitely” in January when asked if his team could make the playoffs. He said, “Last year… We just didn’t know how to win… We made noise, but now we’re going to make some sounds.” Words like these make people want to keep an eye on what would transpire. The Buffs will kick off this season with a game against North Dakota State on August 29.