“The town showed up” for the nation’s coveted quarterback, Julian Lewis. The Buffs’ fans gathered, chanting “We Want JuJu,” with homemade signs. A local burger joint even created a special JuJu Precision Pass burger in his honor.

The message is clear: the entire Boulder community stands behind Coach Prime in his attempt to land Lewis, who seems the best replacement for Shedeur Sanders. Even On3’s Josh Newber observed that Buffs fans transformed the recruiting weekend “into a true family event,” leaving a lasting impression on everyone involved. 

According to Newber, in the June 24 On3 Recruits video, “Flashy cars, extravagant hotels, photoshoots” are common recruiting tactics. “But Colorado brought out a secret weapon this weekend — the people of Boulder,” he noted. This approach could prove more effective than traditional methods. As Newber explains, “Every school has famous coaches,” facilities, stadiums, and academics, but not every school has a community like “Boulder that embraces the Buffs” the way they do.

Lewis’s red carpet treatment included community love and a clear message about his future. He was shown “opportunity on the field,” with the potential to start as QB1 next year after Shedeur’s departure. The coaching staff presented him as “the future of this program,” with Coach Prime himself assuring Lewis “he would be in it for the long haul and JuJu is his guy.”

This all paints a picture of Deion Sanders’ assured tenure at Colorado potentially leading to Lewis flipping his commitment from USC. Colorado’s stronger NIL opportunities could also give them an edge over Auburn. However, the big question is: will it be enough? 

Julian Lewis visits the Buffs with priorities straight

Julian Lewis, the nation’s top quarterback recruit, may still be committed to USC, but Coach Prime and the Buffaloes aren’t giving up. Regardless of existing commitments, they’re rolling out the red carpet for all the star recruits. However, Lewis, a top target for the Buffs, laid out his priorities before his visit. One is “playing the long game with NIL opportunities,” and the next simply is, “I just want to win.” 

Colorado’s new NIL collective offers serious cash, as seen by their current starting QB cruising in a $100k Tesla. However, winning remains paramount here for the 4-8 team. Undoubtedly, Coach Prime has attracted recruits and NIL opportunities, but victories will truly solidify the Buffs’ appeal. While starting for the Buffs seems possible for Lewis, a few crucial wins in the Big 12 could seal the deal.