“Play Physical”: Deion Sanders Exposes His Two Major Expectations From Colorado and the Transfer Portal as the Season Approaches

Deion Sanders seems unfazed by the negativity surrounding the Colorado Buffaloes‘ massive roster turnover. He remains laser-focused on his mission to rebuild the team. Over 40 players have left in search of greener pastures, but Deion’s determination hasn’t wavered. Last season, he faced a similar challenge, but he managed to turn a one-win team into a roster capable of three straight victories. While the initial hype faded as the season progressed, Sanders always believed the best was yet to come.

Last year, he confidently declared, “This [2023] was a season of hope. But next year is a season of expectation.” Now, Deion stands by those words, setting high expectations for the 2024 season. He has now laid out two primary goals for both the offense and defense for the upcoming games. 

Deion Sanders puts forth two major goals for the team

On Thee Pregame Show, Deion Sanders outlined his expectations for the revamped Colorado Buffaloes: “I’m expecting them to play fast and to really play physical.” He expressed high confidence in his quarterback son, Shedeur Sanders, praising his deep throws with, “I know we could throw… the guy we got back there is pretty darn good.” While Shedeur boasts an impressive 70% pass completion rate, Deion demands more from the offense.

He stressed amping up the running game, stating, “I want to run the heck out of the ball and I want them to hand it to the referee flat.” He places his trust in offensive coordinator Pat Shurmur, saying, “That’s who Pat is. I mean Pat is a pro. Most Pros aren’t pass first guys and Pat wants to have tremendous balance.” Deion’s vision extends beyond offense, as he expects a “physical” defense. His simple goals for the season are “Run the ball; stop the ball.” However, achieving these goals might be challenging given the time needed for the new roster to gel and execute these moves effectively.

Can the Buffaloes find their groove?

During the Buffs’ “season of hope,” Deion Sanders placed his trust in two-way star Travis Hunter and quarterback Shedeur Sanders. However, after Hunter’s injury disrupted their winning streak, Deion has taken a more cautious approach, spreading his expectations across the entire roster. To bolster the offense and protect his quarterback son, Deion has brought in Chris Morris and 9 other offensive linemen. But he hasn’t neglected the defense under Shilo Sanders either. He’s added cornerback Colton Hood from Auburn and defensive lineman BJ Green.

While these new names and numbers are promising, the coaches will have a new challenge to work on the team’s chemistry and cohesion. They need time to mold these individual players into a unified force. Now, achieving the goals of “running the ball” and “stopping the ball” requires both offense and defense to work in harmony, finding their rhythm as a team. Can the revamped CU Buffs fulfill Deion’s vision? Let us know in the comments below.