Picture this. The 2022 NCAA football regular season just got over. The Colorado Buffaloes ended it with a record of 1-11. The team knew it was in desperate need of change in 2023. Well, that change came in the form of 87 new players and a revamped coaching staff led by Deion Sanders. Despite the improved 4-8 record, though, there was one point of question: their defense. With a scoring defense of 35.9 points, the 2023 Buffs roster became one of only five CU teams since 1980 to have allowed those many points per game. Needless to say, a new DC was the need of the hour. And it looks like Coach Prime & Co. may be getting one.
Former DC Charles Kelly, who left the team after the 2023 season and headed to Auburn, left the defensive coordinator role open. Who might be reportedly joining the coaching staff? As per a college football insider on X, “Former Wisconsin DC and interim HC Jim Leonhard is close to joining @DeionSanders to become their new DC at Colorado.”
Sources: Former Wisconsin DC and interim HC Jim Leonhard is close to joining @DeionSanders to become their new DC at Colorado. No done deal yet, but it is very close. Leonhard has declined NFL DC jobs, and the USC DC job among others… pic.twitter.com/LkRIRJMKVC
— Cameron Lee (@InsiderNoc4527) January 8, 2024
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While nothing has been confirmed as of yet, Deion Sanders and the interim Wisconsin HC are in close talks to bring Leonhard into the Buffs’ system. This would be a major boost for Colorado as Leonhard comes with a wealth of experience, one that can be utilized in fine-tuning the Buffs’ defenses. Moreover, Leonhard has been linked to NFL teams in the past—most recently having been offered the role of DC for the Green Bay Packers. But every time he’s been approached, not just by the NFL but also by USC, he has turned down the offer and chosen Wisconsin instead.
That could mean that there is a potential chance that Jim Leonhard may choose not to leave Wisconsin yet again, but that’s where Coach Prime comes in. His marketing and recruitment skills are arguably one of the most significant contributors to his success as a coach, so much so that the team and university are immortalizing his marketing skills.
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The University of Colorado is developing a course based on Deion Sanders’ coaching
Deion Sanders is an institution in itself when it comes to coaching players and motivating youngsters. Sanders comes across as a passionate individual who wears his heart on his sleeve. He’s known for making some tough decisions and showing faith in his players even when the chips are down. Over and above this, Coach Prime is a marketing genius and understands the social media game for garnering monetary assets.
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Deion Sanders has redefined how athletes look at marketing and sponsorships, paving the way for them to explore their facets to the best of their abilities. His skillsets and knowledge are now being imparted in an elective subject at the University of Colorado. Recently, the university announced a new course: “CMCI 4021: Prime Time: Public Performance and Leadership.” This would be a great learning opportunity for not only sports students but also those from marketing backgrounds. Deion Sanders is setting an example for them and other coaches to follow in his footsteps.
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