Home/NFL

via Imago

via Imago

Deion Sanders has given his all during his debut season with the Colorado Buffaloes. However, even the warmest of supporters would agree that the Buffs’ have fallen short of their goals. A team that started with a thunderous bang winning three on the trot, fell way too short of their targets.

Well, not everything was the HC’s or the players’ fault, it all came down to the team’s composition. The offense was lacking in several aspects and relied for the most part on Shedeur Sanders. Coach Prime’s tactics were also questionable throughout the season and one that met the ire of pressers during the media interactions. There was perhaps too much on Deion’s plate. But given Prime Time’s character he now chooses to assemble a team of “Avengers” who stick by their “Captain America” to gain redemption in the next season.

Way too much pressure on Shedeur or a push for the Heisman Trophy from Coach Prime?

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Shedeur Sanders, the team’s QB had a great season. It was a personal highlight in his career thus far. But there lies a catch to his performances. Despite making touchdowns on a tremendous 27 times, he was found wanting on trying to gather possession of the ball.

via Imago

The talented QB with a NIL evaluation of $5 million was sacked a record 52 times in the season. While many supporters pointed at the O-line for failing to protect their QB, many critics theorized that it was Coach Prime’s tactics to stack up Shedeur’s stats for the Heisman race that did them in.

These mistakes came at a greater cost, Shedeur ran out of steam in the second half. During the first few games, he performed exceedingly well but as he continued with stiffness, the sacks were rampant. Ultimately, the team was out of playoff contention and Shedeur was out of the Heisman Trophy race as well. Now, realizing his mistake, Coach Prime has added some offensive reinforcements to his squad.

Some new faces in the Buffs team as Coach Prime gathers his squadron

Following the season, Coach Prime promised that he would rebuild the O-line to be the best it can be. Colorado Buffaloes now need to play their cards right. Deion Sanders who’s a firm believer of hard work won’t be repeating the mistakes. The 2024 transfer portal showcases a much clearer picture for the Buffs. Coach Prime is ensuring that the offensive line is ably supported and bringing some fresh talented players, starting with 5-star OT Jordan Seaton.

Yakiri Walker joined the team and would don the offensive line role. The young player has nearly 800 snaps to his name already while playing for the Huskies. Co-joining him on the other side will be Tyler Johnson who is a former top-100 recruit in the Class of 2019.

Buffs have also roped in another WR to strengthen their depth. Terrell Timmons Jr. is coming from the NC State. He already has some experience under his belt with two seasons at the college games. Terrell’s averaging 17.7 yards per catch (195 receiving yards on 11 receptions) as a sophomore in 2023.

Coaching deficiency in the Buffs team

However, the job for the HC now gets cut out since three coaches left their roles. It was a case of three of the Buffs’ coaches leaving the side. Now, even the coaches would be different in the 2024 season. Sean Lewis left as the offensive coordinator. Tim Brewster also bid adieu to the team upon finishing the season. The defensive ends coach role that was earlier performed by Nick Williams is now vacant. Lastly, Nick Williams left his defensive end coaching position.

All these point out to the challenges that lie ahead for Deion Sanders while managing his role as an HC and father to sons playing for his team. No one has been appointed for these vacant roles till now, but with the speedy recruitment, it’s only a matter of time before these positions are filled in as well, and Buffs are moving ahead at full steam.

My Take on Deion Sanders’ strategies and what he needs to do for the 2024 season

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

I’m a through and through Deion Sanders fan. So yes, I’ll be sticking around to see if the HC can get over everything he struggled with this year. It was around late November when Prime Time took over the reins of this team, there was massive speculation around the same. But then sporting his iconic black sunglasses, Deion Sanders replied with the best results. However, he fought through some battles. The Buffs side lacked an impressive offensive line with the players not being consistent with their results.

I believe there was more of Deion the father taking over Deion the HC during the latter half of the tournament. This wasn’t to be as Coach Prime was perhaps pushing his son for a Heisman spot. He did show some fatherly concern, but in hindsight, it came too late as the damage was already done. From a personal perspective, Coach Prime wished to see his son Shedeur amongst the top 10 or possibly top 5 Heisman spots. Therefore, the extra push in promoting his son for the games.

ALSO READ: “It Will Never Be the Same”: Following an End to a Tumultuous Season, Deion Sanders Foretells a Football Revolution at Colorado Buffaloes

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Now as he asks his son to stay in Colorado for one more year, Deion needs to keep his emotions and personal objectives under check. Will Prime’s Nick Fury-esque recruitments bring redemption for the Buffs next season or will they meet the same fate? Only time will tell, but you can rest assured that I will be watching and reporting.

WATCH THIS STORY: 2 years after encouraging Deion Sanders to coach Colarado’s rivals Cowboys’ icon claims Coach Prime to leave for the NFL soon.