Colorado Daily

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Colorado Daily – Fall Camp – 2025

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August 26th

… CU in a few minutes … 

11 Buffs (including BJ Green) make NFL 53-man rosters; 8 Buffs (including Laviska Shenault) cut

Made the 53-man cut in the NFL –>

ATH Travis Hunter (Jaguars)

QB Shedeur Sanders (Browns)

WR LaJohntay Wester (Ravens)

WR Jimmy Horn Jr. (Panthers)

WR Xavier Weaver (Cardinals)

TE Brady Russell (Seahawks)

DE BJ Green (Jaguars)

LB Nate Landman (Rams)

CB Chidobe Awuzie (Ravens)

CB Ahkello Witherspoon (Rams)

DB Isaiah Oliver (Jets)

On IR —>

WR Juwann Winfree (Texans)

Waived —>

WR Laviska Shenault Jr. (Bills)

WR Will Sheppard (Packers)

OL Will Sherman (Broncos)

OL Arlington Hambright (Titans)

DT Josh Tupou (Colts)

OLB Derrick McLendon (Dolphins)

S Shilo Sanders (Buccaneers)

S Cam’Ron Silmon-Craig (Jaguars)

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*Coach Prime names Kaidon Salter starter for CU’s opener against Georgia Tech*

From ESPN … Colorado coach Deion Sanders named Kaidon Salter the Buffaloes’ starting quarterback on Tuesday, ahead of the team’s opener Friday against Georgia Tech.

“The kid has a ton of experience, dual threat, can throw the heck out of the ball as well,” said Sanders. “He’s the guy. He’s the guy at this point.”

Salter, who transferred to Colorado after three years as a starter at Liberty, was the presumed starter but had been competing with five-star true freshman Julian Lewis.

“He’s done it before,” said Sanders. “This is not his first time running out the tunnel and getting the start. … I like what he did in the spring, and he’s growing and growing and growing.”

Sanders credited offensive coordinator Pat Shurmur and volunteer assistant coach Byron Leftwich for their work with Salter.

“I defer to those two coaches to allow me to understand what I see as valid,” said Sanders, who added that he is hopeful Lewis will also get game reps.

Salter appeared in two games for Liberty in 2021, before starting most of the team’s games of over the next three years. During that span, he threw for 5,889 yards with 56 touchdowns and 17 interceptions. He also ran for 2,006 yards.

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*No Ralphie run for opener – Ralphie VI retiring; Ralphie VII identified*

Press release from CUBuffs.com … The University of Colorado’s iconic live buffalo Ralphie VI, nicknamed “Ember,” is retiring after four years of service as college football’s greatest mascot.

Ember will now transition to a companion buffalo role, living with Ralphie V on their ranch. Due to an indifference to running, typical of many mammals both four-legged and two-legged, it was determined that it was in Ember’s best interest, based on her disposition, to focus on relaxing strolls on the pasture, which is her favorite hobby.

“Ember has been excellent in many aspects of her role as Ralphie, but she’s happiest relaxing on the ranch and we want to be respectful of her wishes,” said Taylor Stratton, Director of the Ralphie Live Mascot Program. “She will continue to get the same top level of love and care that all of our Ralphies receive and will enjoy socializing with Ralphie V.”

A succession plan has been in place for a number of months and more information on Ralphie VII will be provided when it’s available. Since top prioritization is given to the buffalo’s health, well-being, happiness, and safety there is no exact timeline for Ralphie VII’s debut while she continues training. In the interim, the Buffaloes football team will take the field without the university’s beloved live mascot.

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August 25th 

… CU in a few minutes … 

*OC Pat Shurmur and DC Robert Livingston talk with media*

… Note 1 … No announcement on a starting quarterback; if it is going to happen prior to kickoff, it will likely come at Coach Prime’s game week press conference on Tuesday …

… Note 2 … In case you were wondering, in order to have fans go to CU sponsored YouTube coverage, other outlets are limited to three minutes of video …

From Brian Howell at the Daily Camera …

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From Adam Munsterteiger at BuffStampede.com …

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August 24th

… CU in a few minutes … 

WR Sincere Brown adjusting to Power Four: “He’s learning what the expectations of being here is”

From the Daily Camera … Sincere Brown began his collegiate career at South Florida, where he was teammates with future Buffs receivers Jimmy Horn Jr. and Xavier Weaver. When it became Brown’s turn to kick the tires on a possible transfer to Boulder, he leaned on the wisdom of his former teammates.

“Colorado a year ago was my favorite college football team if y’all didn’t know,” said Brown, who spent the past two seasons at Campbell. “I went to USF with Jimmy horn and Xavier Weaver. As I entered the transfer portal and was making a decision, I was talking to them throughout the process, and kind of just like watching them, like last year, a lot, I was watching their games. I was watching the type of content that they was having out. And just the Hall of Fame coaching staff is unbelievable. So yeah, that kind of was a huge decision on my (decision) to come to Colorado.”

Brown appeared in only 10 games over three seasons at South Florida, recording just a lone reception during that time. His transfer to Campbell provided a delayed but ultimately rewarding payoff, appearing in just one game in 2023 before putting together a breakout season last year. Brown earned first team all-league honors in the Coastal Athletic Association, finishing with 61 receptions for 1,028 yards and 12 touchdowns.

Brown wanted a bigger challenge at the power conference level, but the move to Boulder hasn’t occurred without an adjustment period.

“He’s learning what the expectations of being here is,” CU receivers coach Jason Phillips said last week. “He’s continuing to mature that area. Right now, so far so good. If he continues to do that and eliminate mental mistakes, I think we’ll be pleased with what we have with Sincere.”

Brown admitted it hasn’t always been a smooth adjustment. Everything that worked at Campbell hasn’t necessarily transferred, with Brown and Phillips both recently recounting a rough first practice with the Buffs for Brown.

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Shilo Sanders waived by Tampa Bay after being ejected for throwing a punch

From ESPN … The Tampa Bay Buccaneers informed rookie safety Shilo Sanders on Sunday that he is being waived, his agents told ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

Agents Drew Rosenhaus and Robert Bailey told Schefter that they hope Sanders gets claimed on waivers.

NFL teams are currently in the process of trimming their rosters to 53 players by Tuesday’s deadline.

The news comes after Sanders was ejected from Tampa Bay’s third preseason game against the Buffalo Bills on Saturday night for throwing a punch.

Sanders punched tight end Zach Davidson, who was blocking him, after some heavy pushing and shoving in the second quarter. Bucs linebacker John Bullock tried to calm Sanders afterward, and Tampa Bay coach Todd Bowles looked at Sanders as he walked back to the sideline.

Bowles addressed the incident after Tampa Bay’s 23-19 loss.

“You can’t throw punches in this league — that’s inexcusable,” Bowles said. “They’re going to get you every time. You’ve got to grow from that.”

Sanders was also flagged for a pass interference call in the first quarter on the game.

He had been competing for the fourth and final safety spot with Kaevon Merriweather and Rashad Wisdom to back up Antoine Winfield Jr., Tykee Smith and Christian Izien.

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August 23rd

… CU in a few minutes … 

Camera: Seven players who will CU’s defense 

From the Daily Camera … Unlike a year ago, Colorado won’t have the two most recognizable stars in college football.

With Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter, record-setting quarterback Shedeur Sanders and others off to the NFL, the Buffaloes will rely on a new cast of characters. They aren’t devoid of star talent, however.

Defense

DL Anquin Barnes Jr., 6-5, 305, Sr.: Challenged by coaches to lose weight in the offseason, he did that, going from 340 to 305. His transformation has turned into having some dominant moments in practice, as he’s impressed coaches and teammates all month. “Watch out for Barnes this year, man,” defensive line coach Domata Peko said. “He’s gonna put on a show for you guys.”

DE Arden Walker, 6-2, 250, Sr.: The Cherry Creek High School graduate has improved every year of his career. Last year, he had 6.5 tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks and he’s looking for even more this year as he steps up as a leader. “I’m really, really happy with his progress,” assistant coach George Helow said. “The thing about Arden is he leads by doing, so that’s, to me, the best form of leadership.”

DE Quency Wiggins, 6-5, 255, Jr.: Coach Prime has often praised the potential of Wiggins, but the former LSU Tiger hasn’t been able to put it all together and get on the field. He’s been making noise this month, though, and seems ready for a breakout season. “His attitude and effort has been tremendous every day,” Helow said. “I love where he’s headed right now. … I’m very, very proud of Quency. He’s had a great camp so far, and he’s going to continue to get better and better.”

ILB Martavius French, 6-2, 225, Sr.: At UTSA last year, he was tied for 10th nationally in tackles for loss, with 17. CU’s coaches have rotated linebackers, but French has consistently been working with the first-team defense, as he looks to be a disruptive force. “Very instinctual, making plays,” fellow linebacker Jeremiah Brown said of French. “His blitzes are amazing.”

DB Preston Hodge, 6-0, 195, Sr.: CU’s starting nickel back last year, he got an extra year of eligibility and has been better than ever this month in camp. Last year, he had 33 tackles, two interceptions and seven pass breakups. “Preston has come miles and miles (from where he was) in how he’s practicing and how he’s approaching this year, and that feeds on the rest of the guys in that room,” cornerbacks coach Kevin Mathis said.

CB DJ McKinney, 6-2, 190, Jr.: Perhaps CU’s best overall player on defense, McKinney earned preseason All-Big 12 honors. He started all 13 games last year and had 62 tackles, three interceptions and nine pass breakups. “DJ McKinney is a pro,” Coach Prime said. “Every scout that comes here, that’s the first name they mention, DJ McKinney. DJ works his butt off every day.”

S Carter Stoutmire, 5-11, 210, Jr.: Entering his third year as a Buff, Stoutmire is finally on track to be a full-time starter. He spent the past two years playing behind Shilo Sanders and Cam’Ron Silmon-Craig, while also playing corner and nickel. Now, he’s focused on safety. “I know the scheme, but how to really play the position, being savvy, disguise the coverages all that (was a focus),” he said. “I have a full offseason under my belt, so I feel like I can reset my game to the next level this year.”

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CB coach Kevin Mathis: “If I get them to trust me they’re going to give me everything they got”

From the Daily Camera … Kevin Mathis is nearly two decades removed from his playing career, but he’s now nearly a decade into his coaching career.

As Mathis enters his third season as the cornerbacks coach for the Colorado Buffaloes, he said, “I’ve grown a lot.”

“It’s a different generation but it’s just trying to get the guys to really trust you, and what you’re trying to tell them,” Mathis, 51, said this week. “Understanding that I got their best interests at heart, but if I get them to trust me they’re gonna give me everything they got.”

Mathis played in the NFL from 1997-2006 and was teammates with current CU head coach Deion Sanders in his first three seasons, with the Dallas Cowboys. Mathis has been with Sanders throughout his coaching career, at Trinity Christian (Texas) School from 2017-20, Jackson State from 2020-22 and CU since 2023.

Sanders and CU defensive coordinator Robert Livingston have both praised Mathis’ coaching ability in the past year. This week, senior cornerback Preston Hodge said it is Mathis’ honesty that makes him a good coach.

“Especially as a (defensive back), you need someone to be honest with you,” Hodge said. “You don’t want someone to sugarcoat anything, tell you things you want to hear. He does a good job at telling you things you need to hear, especially to get you to where you want to be, which is, for me, the NFL.

“Any coaching points that he gives me, I’m gonna take that in and listen.”

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August 22nd

… CU in a few minutes … 

Linebacker Jeremiah Brown looking for playing time: “I’m very confident in my abilities”

From the Daily Camera … Few would have blamed Jeremiah Brown for leaving Colorado last winter to find a new place to play college football.

After all, he was a fourth-year player in 2024 that didn’t get much time on the field, and the NCAA transfer portal is flooded with student-athletes looking for more opportunities.

Brown, in fact, spent about a week in the portal in December before changing his mind. Now, with the 2025 season around the corner, the fifth-year senior linebacker is happy he stayed in Boulder and he’s looking to make a more significant impact on the Buffs’ defense.

“I’m very confident in my abilities,” he said. “I put the work in, and that’s where the confidence comes from – preparation and the work that you put in, trusting my coaches and trusting myself to do my job.”

Brown played his first two college football seasons at Jackson State with head coach Deion Sanders and linebackers coach Andre Hart. As a sophomore, he played as an edge rusher and was dominant, with 47 tackles, 10 tackles for loss and six sacks.

When Sanders took the head coaching job at CU in December of 2022 – bringing Hart with him – Brown was one of several JSU players to join them in Boulder. In his two years at CU, however, he’s played just 118 defensive snaps and struggled to find where he fit in.

After playing some on the edge, Brown settled in at inside linebacker last year, but with playing time scarce, he chose to redshirt and gain an extra year of eligibility.

… During preseason camp, Brown has been competing with transfers Martavius French (from UTSA), Reggie Hughes (Jacksonville State), Shaun Myers (North Alabama) and Kylan Salter (TCU).

In videos posted by Well Off Media, French and Hughes appear to be the frontrunners to start. Brown has been seen mostly with the No. 2 defense, while also working in with the ones. All along, Brown has been fueled by the competition.

“When you got guys like (French and Hughes) flying around, I’m telling you, them boys are firing to the football,” he said. “So you got guys like that to give you little tips and they’re all older guys. They’ve been around, been through a lot of defenses, so they got a lot to show you, and we all learn from each other. They’ve taught me a lot.”

… Read full story here …

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Rick George updates Buff Nation on 2025 Game Day improvements 

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Three offensive line coaches? No problem: “We’re always on the same page”

From the Daily Camera … CU has what head coach Deion Sanders calls “a three-headed monster coaching those guys” on the offensive line and so far that trio is working well together.

“It’s just a natural thing, I believe, because every day we talk and communicate about the needs of the players,” line coach Gunnar White said. “And, we even get their input of, hey, what do you want to see and what can we help you do?”

White has the position of offensive line coach, as well as offensive run game coordinator. George Hegamin and former Buffs great Andre Gurode are both assistants helping with the offensive line, but the three of them are teaming up and sharing duties.

“We’re pretty accustomed to doing everything, so it doesn’t matter if one of us is down with the scout team and the other two are with first team,” White said. “It doesn’t matter, because the message is the same and we’re always on the same page.”

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Who will be CB No. 2 for the Buffs in the opener?

From the Daily Camera … There have been moments when RJ Johnson will make a great play to swat the ball away from a receiver. And other moments when Teon Parks will snag an interception or break up a pass.

Throughout preseason camp, both have made their case to start, which makes it difficult on Colorado cornerbacks coach Kevin Mathis to figure out which one will be in the lineup when the Buffaloes host Georgia Tech on Aug. 29 (6 p.m., ESPN) at Folsom Field.

“It’s been tough for us,” Mathis said Thursday after the Buffaloes’ practice. “They’ve both been playing really well, and they’re competing, man. But, I’m confident with each of them.

“Whichever one of them we put out on the field (against Georgia Tech), man, is gonna be going out there and competing.”

Junior DJ McKinney is already set at one cornerback spot. A full-time starter in 2024, McKinney earned preseason All-Big 12 honors and hasn’t disappointed in preseason camp.

“He understands what he needs to do to get where he wants to get to (in the NFL) and he’s showing it out there every day in practice,” said Mathis, who certainly knows what it takes after playing 10 years in the NFL, from 1997-2006. “(McKinney) had a strong day today, and he continues to stack those days because he knows that he wants this to be his last year and he wants to be the best.”

… Continue reading story here …

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August 21st 

… CU in a few minutes … 

WR Hykeem Williams wants Buff fans to notice his No. 5 this fall

From the Daily Camera … Hykeem Williams didn’t get to play much ball during his two seasons at Florida State. But he aims to change that this fall with the Buffs.

Just two years ago, Williams arrived at FSU as one of the top receiver prospects in the nation. He was a consensus five-star recruit, and 247Sports.com ranked Williams as the No. 4 receiver prospect in the nation and the No. 24 recruit overall in the 2023 class.

That immense talent never quite came to fruition with the Seminoles. Williams appeared in eight games as a freshman at FSU, recording five receptions for 80 yards and scoring his first collegiate touchdown on a 44-yard play against Syracuse.

Williams made eight starts last year and played in nine games overall, finishing with 16 receptions for 187 yards and a touchdown. After FSU finished what arguably was the most disappointing season in FBS football last year — the Seminoles were ranked 10th in the preseason but finished 2-10 — Williams opted for a change of scenery, believing “more development” was required to unlock his potential.

“At first it was rough, the elevation and everything, but other than on the field, it’s been smooth,” Williams said. “Everybody makes sure that everybody’s good. It’s a big family here, so it’s really been smooth off the field.

“Coming here, you’re just around so much guys that have been there. I mean, there was guys that have been there at Florida State, but here is just on another level. You got three gold jackets, you got NFL guys that come in and Hall of Famers that even come in still to just pour into us and help us to be great and succeed.”

… Continue reading story here …

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August 20th

… CU in a few minutes … 

Will 6’7″ Larry Johnson III be CU’s answer at right tackle? “He’s a mauler”

From the Daily Camera … It didn’t take long for Larry Johnson III to make an impression on his new Colorado teammates when he arrived in Boulder this summer.

At 6-foot-7, 350 pounds, the Tennessee transfer is a large man and stands out even among other large men in his group.

“When I walk behind Larry, I know how people feel when they walk behind me,” said CU offensive line assistant coach George Hegamin, who is 6-7 and weighed 330 when he played. “He’s that huge.”

Johnson has been making a good impression with his play, too. From the start of preseason camp, he has been entrenched at right tackle with the first-team offense.

“I think the thing that I’m seeing from him on the field is that he’s doing a really good job of learning the technique that we’re teaching,” Hegamin said. “Larry’s a big guy, plays heavy. At the same time, he’s smart, he understands exactly what we’re asking to do. We’re seeing him be able to go in there and do some things that we’re going to look for from our right tackles this year, which is good.”

Johnson began his collegiate career with one season at Hutchinson Community College, earning first-team all-conference in 2022. He spent the past two years at Tennessee, playing 133 snaps as a backup left tackle in 2024. (He played just 21 snaps in 2023).

Johnson gave up no sacks and just one quarterback pressure a year ago. The Buffs are hoping for similar results this year, while also leaning on him as a run blocker.

“He’s a mauler and the goal is run the ball, so we gotta have bodies like that,” offensive line coach Gunnar White said.

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WR Omarion Miller ready for his chance: “I’m definitely glad I stayed here” 

From the Daily Camera … Thoughts of transferring entered the mind of Omarion Miller during his first two seasons at Colorado.

As he enters his third season with the Buffaloes, however, Miller is happy he’s stayed put.

“I’m definitely glad I stayed here,” said Miller, a 6-foot-2, 210-pound junior from Vivian, La. “I love being here. I could have been transferring and went other places after my freshman season, but I decided to stay here because I love Boulder, love everything around Colorado.”

A four-star prospect coming out of North Caddo (La.) High School in 2023, Miller was committed to LSU for several months as a high school junior. Then, he spent five months committed to Nebraska during his senior year before flipping to CU.

With the Buffs, Miller has flashed his potential, but he has yet to be a featured receiver.

Playing behind several future pros in 2023, including Travis Hunter and Xavier Weaver, Miller was called upon during the second half of a game against USC and caught seven passes for 196 yards and a touchdown. He caught just four passes the rest of the season, though.

For a player who racked up 3,492 yards and 43 touchdowns in high school, Miller’s production through two college seasons (21 catches for 450 yards, two TDs) hasn’t been what he expected.

“I wouldn’t say frustrating, but it got to a point to where I used to think a lot, and I didn’t really know what to say about it, or how to go about it,” he said of adjusting to a backup role.

Miller admitted there were times he wondered if this was the right place for him.

“I wasn’t getting the right play time that I wanted but I definitely think that was a big learning process for me, too,” he said. “To learn from that, and to bounce back from it, for sure.”

… Continue reading story here …

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August 19th

… CU in a few minutes … 

WR Joseph Williams looking to make a name for himself: “I feel I will play a lot this year”

From the Daily Camera … A transfer this offseason from Tulsa, the 6-foot-2, 200-pound Joseph Williams is one of the leading candidates for a starting role with the Buffaloes, just two years after making a position switch.

Growing up, Williams played quarterback at Mansfield Summit High School in Arlington, Texas, but wasn’t getting much attention from college recruiters.

“Going into my senior year, I had no offers, and a lot of coaches that would come up to talk to me, they would say I’m more of an athlete than a traditional quarterback,” Williams said.

Recruiters suggested he try other positions, in addition to quarterback, to display his versatility.

“As the season went on, I almost completely went away from quarterback and I was just receiver and safety the whole time,” he said.

… Seeking an opportunity to test himself and get even better, Williams left Tulsa and entered the transfer portal. He initially committed to Utah, but just a few days later changed his mind and signed with CU to play for Pro Football Hall of Fame head coach Deion Sanders.

“Coach Prime was a big deciding factor,” Williams said in his decision. “There’s a couple things he said to me, that just stuck with me. Other schools I went to, they were almost to the point they were trying to give me whatever I wanted. But Coach Prime, one thing that stuck with me, he told me that I have to earn everything I get here.

“I told myself, ‘I need to go here. I want to play in the NFL. I don’t need no type of handouts. I want to earn everything I get.’ Playing for Coach Prime, that’s just something that he adds for me.”

Williams knew CU was sending four receivers from the 2024 team to the NFL, and he also knew the room in 2025 would be talented and competitive.

“I already knew we had one of the best rooms in the Big 12,” he said. “I have a lot of confidence in myself. I feel I will play a lot this year, but I also feel like everybody else in the room is gonna play a lot because of how talented we are. … It helps push me to get better each and every day.”

… Continue reading story here …

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August 18th

… CU in a few minutes … 

*Offensive line coach Andre Gurode talks about his return to CU*

From YouTube, courtesy of BuffStampede.com …

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Xavier Hill looking to join Jordan Seaton on the left side of CU’s offensive line: “We’re gonna be putting people on their back”

From the Daily Camera … Until this summer, Xavier Hill had always lived in the South.

Born in Mississippi, he played his first three years of college football at LSU before playing the last two years at Memphis.

This summer, however, the 6-foot-4, 320-pound sixth-year senior chose something new, transferring to Colorado for his final season of college football.

“It’s a lot different from where I’m from,” he said. “Just living in a new experience is always good. … I feel like different is good in life, especially at a young age.”

Hill was a 26-game starter at Memphis, earning first-team all-conference honors in 2024, but he sought a new challenge. At CU, Hill hopes to make a difference on a rebuilt offensive line.

“I just wanted to push myself a little more,” he said. “Being at a place where you know you’re going to start every year, I feel like you get a little complacent. I just felt like I needed to hit the portal to help myself, push myself a little harder.”

CU’s struggles on the offensive line over the past two years have been well documented. The Buffs have given up more sacks (99) than any other team in the country in the past two years, and they’ve ranked last in the country in rushing both years.

Star left tackle Jordan Seaton is back, as are three others who started several games last year, but the Buffs’ coaching staff brought in nine transfers to compete for starting roles. When CU opens the season against Georgia Tech on Aug. 29 (6 p.m., ESPN) at Folsom Field, there could be four newcomers on the starting line.

To this point, Hill has been as advertised and he’s been locked in as the starter at left guard throughout preseason camp.

“I feel like I’m just doing my job,” he said. “I don’t really try to think too hard about stuff like that because then I feel like I’m gonna get complacent or something. I just try to come out here every day and get better.”

… Continue reading story here …

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August 17th

… CU in a few minutes … 

Defensive back Preston Hodge happy to get a bonus year: “Everything happens for a reason”

From the Daily Camera … As the Colorado football team was preparing to play in the Valero Alamo Bowl last December, Preston Hodge never expected he’d still be in college for the 2025 season.

He is, however, and the Buffaloes’ senior cornerback is doing all he can to make the most of an unexpected opportunity.

“I just promise y’all, y’all are gonna see a different Preston on that field,” Hodge told BuffZone.

A senior in 2024, Hodge missed the last four games with an injury and believed that would be the disappointing end to his college career.

“When I got hurt, I was trying to think about what I was going to do and how everything was going to go,” he said. “My dad or somebody just brought up maybe trying to get a redshirt, but I played too many games.”

Unknown to Hodge at the time, Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia had sued the NCAA, arguing that time spent at non-NCAA institutions (such as junior college or the NAIA) should not count towards eligibility.

On Dec. 18, a federal judge in Tennessee granted an injunction that allowed Pavia to get another year at Vandy. That ruling only applied to Pavia, but on Dec. 23 the NCAA granted a blanket waiver that allowed one more season of eligibility to all student-athletes who had spent time in JUCO or NAIA and would be out of eligibility at the end of the 2024-25 school year.

Hodge, who began his career in 2021 at Navarro (Texas) College, had a new shot.

“I was ecstatic, man,” he said. “I was pumped up to hear that. And then as soon as I saw that thing, me and my wife and my son, we went and celebrated. I was excited. It’s a blessing.”

… Continue reading story here …

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August 16th

… CU in a few minutes … 

Coach Prime: Goal for 2025 – A Bowl for Peggy (plus a Bowl Win)

From the Daily Camera … Deion Sanders certainly knows how to get a crowd going, and he didn’t disappoint Friday.

A year ago, the Colorado head football coach declared that the goal was to get Miss Peggy — CU’s 100-year-old superfan, Peggy Coppom — to a bowl game.

During the 36th annual Boulder Chamber Kickoff Luncheon at the Buffaloes’ Ford Practice Facility on Friday, Sanders took it a step farther for this year’s team.

“I hate sharing goals and thoughts and visions, because that’s really between me and God, but last year the goal was to get Miss Peggy to a bowl game,” Sanders said. “That was the goal, and we did that. Now, when I’m talking to God, he told me I’ve got to be more specific. So this year we want to get Miss Peggy to a bowl game and win.”

The hundreds of fans in attendance certainly liked hearing that, as CU hasn’t won a bowl game since 2004, losing five in a row since then.

First up for the Buffs, though, is getting a retooled roster to prove it can get back to the postseason. CU, which went 9-4 and played in the Alamo Bowl last season, hasn’t been to back-to-back bowls since 2004 and 2005.

… Continue reading story here …

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August 15th

… CU in a few minutes … 

Zach Atkins hoping to make CU’s tight ends relevant:  “I’m a dude that can make a difference”

From the Daily Camera … The confidence to play at the highest level of college football has been there for Zach Atkins, but playing in the Colorado Buffaloes’ spring game in April confirmed it.

“Honestly, I’ve always kind of known it, but the spring game really was a solidifier of, ‘I can play at this level, I can play in front of all these people,’” Atkins said. “It’s what I’ve always dreamed about, man, so it’s just a blessing.”

A 6-foot-4, 240-pound junior tight end, Atkins transferred to CU in January and is looking forward to being a big part of the offense this season.

During head coach Deion Sanders’ first two seasons at CU, the Buffs haven’t had much of a run game. And with that, they haven’t put much emphasis on the tight end room. That appears to be changing this year, and Atkins might be the most complete tight end at CU since Brady Russell in 2022.

“I think that was one of the selling points, as in I can really complement these other guys and I can really be an asset for this offense,” Atkins said. “It’s something that really was a main part of my decision.”

Atkins grew up in Olathe, Kan., and starred as a receiver at Blue Valley Southwest High School before landing at Division II Northwest Missouri State. The Bearcats have an exceptional program, including six national titles, but Atkins knew he wanted more.

After growing into a tight end body, Atkins caught 18 passes for 179 yards and three touchdowns last year and got noticed by Power Four programs, including CU.

“Things just weren’t working over there and my dream has always been to be a Division I football player, and I really just bet on myself,” Atkins said. “I hit the portal and some really good things happened.”

… Continue reading story here …

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Julian Lewis inks NIL deal with Gym Weed

From On3Sports … Colorado quarterback Julian Lewis is adding to his NIL portfolio ahead of his freshman season. The former top-60 recruit in the country has inked an endorsement deal with the energy drink Gym Weed.

As part of the agreement, Lewis becomes an athlete equity partner with the brand. The multi-year deal includes Lewis starring in social media campaigns for the energy drink. Full financial details of the deal were not disclosed. Lewis’s representation Network negotiated the deal.

Founded in June 2022, the hemp-infused energy was developed by Alternative Biologics, whose founders and team created Muscle Milk.

“After I tried Gym Weed and had a chance to meet the team, it just made sense,” Lewis said in a statement. “It’s more than an energy drink. As a student-athlete, I feel like the need to focus all day long is my reality, and that’s what made it a perfect fit for me. In NIL, the biggest thing I’ve learned is you’ve got to work with brands you actually believe in. You can’t just grab every offer — your name’s on it, and you’re building with them for the long run.”

Lewis is also signing a marketing deal with Taco Bell, with the campaign set to launch this weekend. The quarterback will have his collectible player cup as part of the “Buffs Box,” a new NIL campaign launching at Taco Bell locations throughout Colorado.

… Continue reading story here …

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August 14th

… CU in a few minutes … 

Coach Prime among those named to AP All-Time All-American Team

From ESPN … Florida quarterback Tim Tebow and Florida State cornerback Deion Sanders were among the former college football stars named to The Associated Press’ All-Time All-America first team.

Ohio State and Pittsburgh each placed three players on the AP All-Time All-America team announced Thursday as part of the news organization’s celebration of the 100th anniversary of the storied honor for the top players in college football.

Since 1925, nearly 2,000 men have been named AP first-team All-Americans, one of the most prestigious honors in the sport.

Of the 25 players on the first team, five won the Heisman Trophy and 21 are in the College Football Hall of Fame, two are nominated for induction in 2026, and two are not eligible because they are not yet 10 years removed from their college careers.

A panel of 12 AP sportswriters who cover college football selected the all-time team. It won’t be, and shouldn’t be, considered definitive. There have been far more great players over the past century than spots available.

For a player to qualify, he must have been an AP first-team All-American at least once. His professional career, if any, was not to be considered. Also, a member of the all-time team could be listed only on the side of the ball where he was named first-team All-America. All-purpose players could come from any position.

Voters were cautioned against recency bias, but it is notable that only three of the first-team selections played before 1970. Of the 12 players who were three-time All-Americans, only four made the two all-time teams picked by AP.

The Big Ten led all conferences with seven selections, two more than the SEC.

First team offense

Wide receivers – Randy Moss, Marshall, 1997; Larry Fitzgerald, Pittsburgh, 2003

Tackles – Orlando Pace, Ohio State, 1995-96; Bill Fralic, Pittsburgh, 1982-84

Guards – John Hannah, Alabama, 1972; Jim Parker, Ohio State, 1956

Center – Chuck Bednarik, Penn, 1947-48

Tight end – Brock Bowers, Georgia, 2023

QB – Tim Tebow, Florida, 2007

Running backs – Barry Sanders, Oklahoma State, 1988; Herschel Walker, Georgia, 1980-82

Kicker – Sebastian Janikowski, Florida State, 1998-99

All-purpose – Johnny Rodgers, Nebraska, 1972

First team defense

Ends – Hugh Green, Pittsburgh, 1978-80; Randy White, Maryland, 1974

Tackles – Ndamukong Suh, Nebraska, 2009; Bronko Nagurski, Minnesota, 1929

Linebackers – Dick Butkus, Illinois, 1964; Derrick Thomas, Alabama, 1988; Chris Spielman, Ohio State, 1986-87

Cornerbacks – Charles Woodson, Michigan, 1996-97; Deion Sanders, Florida State, 1987-88

Safeties – Ronnie Lott, USC, 1980; Ed Reed, Miami, 2000-01

Punter – Tory Taylor, Iowa, 2023

… Read full story here …

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DE Keaten Wade – From third down rusher to three-down player: “Definitely excited for the opportunity to see what I can do”

From the Daily Camera … There weren’t many opportunities to see Keaten Wade on the field during the 2024 season, but it was memorable when he played.

Limited to six games because of an injury, Wade played just 105 snaps for the Colorado defense last year. They were a loud 105 snaps, though, as he racked up 20 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss and four sacks. He also recovered a fumble and had three quarterback hurries.

“What we asked him to do, he did a really good job of,” CU defensive ends coach George Helow said. “He went in, made some plays.”

What he was asked to do was fill a role as a third-down pass rusher, but Wade and the Buffs are looking for a bigger role this year.

“The next step is definitely being a three-down player,” Wade said. “Coach Helow goes through the defense well and helps us be confident in what we got. But I’m just looking to be a three-down player, play the run, play the pass, get down on third down. Be everywhere on the ball.”

A foot injury sidelined Wade for the first six weeks of the 2024 season and he admitted to being “a little down” when he couldn’t play and help his team.

When he returned to the lineup – with two sacks in just 11 snaps at Arizona – he planned to play just four games and preserve a redshirt. However, he played so well, he kept going.

Now, Wade is healthy and eager to prove himself for a full season.

“Definitely excited for the opportunity to see what I can do,” he said. “I feel like I’m 100% healthy now, so I just want to show what I can do in a full season.”

… Continue reading story here …

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August 13th 

… CU in a few minutes … 

*Big 12 to release player availability reports during conference season*

From On3Sports … The Big 12 will begin releasing public availability reports for all football conference games starting this season, sources told On3. The Big 12’s athletic directors voted Wednesday to start using availability reports in football, men’s and women’s basketball league games, a source said.

The Big 12 joins the other power conferences – ACC, Big Ten and SEC – in requiring its football teams to provide availability reports, similar to the NFL’s injury reports.

The Big 12 will require football teams to provide daily reports three days before game day and a final one 90 minutes before kickoff, sources said.

Big 12 football programs will designate players as “available, probable, questionable, doubtful or out.” Basketball programs will indicate if players are “available, game-time decision or out.”

In 2023, the Big Ten was the first power league to require football availability reports. The SEC did so in 2024.

“The reporting policy is intended to reduce pressure from outside entities seeking participation information and represents a commitment of our 16 institutions to provide enhanced transparency to support efforts to protect our student-athletes and the integrity of competition,” SEC commissioner Greg Sankey said.

SEC designations are “available, probable, questionable, doubtful or out” before game day. On day of the game, players are listed as “game time decision” or “out.”

Like the Big 12, this season will be the first the ACC will utilize availability reports.

… Continue reading story here …

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August 12th 

… CU in a few minutes … 

*Special Teams coordinator Michael Pollack meets with the press*

From YouTube, courtesy of BuffStampede.com … Talking about whether Alejandro Mata will have a line of demarcation for field goal attempts …

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Safety Tawfiq Byard looking to follow his brother into the NFL: “If you put in the work, you can do it”

From the Daily Camera … Boulder is a completely new environment for Tawfiq Byard, who grew up on the East Coast before playing the past two seasons at South Florida, but he saw a golden opportunity in transferring to play for the Colorado Buffaloes.

“Colorado preached that if you come in here and work and you really have a love for the game, you’ll get everything you want out of it,” the 6-foot-1, 195-pound redshirt sophomore said. “So this opportunity, the cameras, the lights every weekend, is on us. As a (defensive back), that’s something that you want to play in. You want to be in the big-time games. You want to be in the spotlight.”

Projected as a starter in CU’s retooled secondary, Byard is eager to learn from a coaching staff loaded with NFL experience, including head coach Deion Sanders, who is a Hall of Fame cornerback. Byard’s position coach, defensive coordinator Robert Livingston, has 12 years of NFL coaching experience.

Byard, however, doesn’t have to look far in learning about the NFL. His older brother, Kevin Byard, plays safety for the Chicago Bears. A two-time first-team All-Pro, Kevin is going into his 10th season in the league.

“The biggest thing I take from him and that whole situation is that it could be done,” the younger Byard said. “That if you just work, grind, put your head down, you could do it.”

The example set by his older brother has fueled Byard, who starred at DeMatha Catholic (Md.) High School before going to South Florida in 2023. After redshirting in 2023, Byard started 10 games for the Bulls in 2024, recording 54 tackles, eight tackles for loss, two sacks and an interception.

Inspired by his brother, Byard comes to CU looking to build up his own resume.

“Some kids get discouraged because they don’t see it, a living figure that has done it, so they kind of think it’s just an out-of-this-world type of thing to make it to the next level,” Byard said. “But when you have someone in the flesh that has done it, and you’ve seen the work they put in, that’s something that’s tangible.”

… Continue reading story here …

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August 10th

… CU in a few minutes … 

Despite competition, Kaidon Salter and Julian Lewis report developing friendship

From the Daily Camera … Asked about the decision to name a starter, Coach Prime said, “I see us winning. I’m not looking that far down the line. I’m looking to have great practices by these two young men, and the cream of the crop is going to rise. So it’s not a urgency that we got to name this and name that. Both of these guys can play.”

Both are developing a close friendship, too, despite Salter being five years older and having four years of college experience under his belt.

“I think me and Kaidon talk more about life than football, which I think has actually helped us build a better relationship off the field,” Lewis said. “Just trying to keep (the quarterback battle) friendly and just keep it team related.”

Salter, who spent the past four years at Liberty before transferring to CU in January, said Lewis reminds him a bit of himself at a younger age, and he enjoys being around Lewis.

“Sometimes he does things and you gotta remind yourself, like, he’s a 17-year-old kid,” Salter said. “At the same time, he’s a hilarious dude. He’s fun to be around.”

Much of their bond had been built through respect for each other as competitors.

Lewis said, “K-Salt has had his own experiences with college and life things,” and has expressed his appreciation for all that Salter has accomplished in his time at Liberty – including being named Conference USA most valuable player in 2023.

Salter’s respect for Lewis stems more from what he’s seen in practice than in the 11,000-plus yards Lewis threw for in three years at Carrollton (Ga.) High School.

“He’s a competitor,” Salter said. “He throws the ball with so much confidence. He goes out there and practices hard each and every day. I don’t think he looks at it as, ‘(Salter is) a vet, they’re going to give him the job.’ He comes in and works every day and competes and he’s trusting the process.”

… Continue reading story here …

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August 9th

… CU in a few minutes … 

Rooney: Year Three a chance for Coach Prime to prove his coaching mettle 

From the Daily Camera … Year one was a case study in unbridled enthusiasm, as Colorado fans rejoiced at the program upheaval that brought Deion Sanders to Boulder.

Year two was more of the same, only magnified, with the Buffs primed to finally turn a corner behind the NFL-caliber talents like quarterback Shedeur Sanders and eventual Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter. Indeed they turned that corner, posting a nine-win season that marked just the second winning mark in a full season since 2005 at CU.

Year three? It’s not a clean slate. It’s not a rebuild. And it’s definitely not a reload either.

After an eventful offseason that included a CU-heavy NFL Draft in April and Coach Prime’s cancer scare over the summer, coach Sanders took center stage at CU’s fall sports media day on Friday to discuss what’s next for the Buffaloes.

The excitement certainly remains elevated. The Aug. 29 opener against Georgia Tech is sold out, as is the family weekend date against Wyoming on Sept. 20. There remains at least some NFL-caliber talent, most notably with offensive lineman Jordan Seaton and cornerback DJ McKinney. And as anyone might expect, coach Sanders says the expectations remain the same, even with a new batch of talents tasked with upholding those standards.

Sanders last season described his first year on the job as a season of hope as he razed and rebuilt the moribund CU program. That adjective changed to “belief” last year. Sanders said he hasn’t put a label on year No. 3 yet, but given the combination of a roster retooled with the goal of remaining competitive and the surviving of the bladder cancer scare — and on a media day that coincided with Shedeur’s preseason debut with the Cleveland Browns, no less — maybe the word of the season is simply appreciation.

“I’m healthy. I’m vibrant. I’m my old self,” Sanders said. “We walk every day after practice around campus at least a mile. I’m living life right now. I’m trying my best to live it to the fullest considering what transpired.”

… Continue reading story here …

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Shedeur Sanders plays well in NFL debut: “I’m comfortable with being uncomfortable”

From ESPN … Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders didn’t disappoint in his highly anticipated NFL debut.

Sanders, the son of Pro Football Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, got the start and threw a pair of first-half touchdown passes in the Browns’ 30-10, preseason-opening win over the Carolina Panthers on Friday night.

Sanders threw his first touchdown on a 7-yard pass to wide receiver Kaden Davis on the first play of the second quarter, threading the ball through a tight window in the back corner of the end zone. Cleveland’s offense capitalized on a short field after the Browns recovered a muffed punt deep in the red zone, converting their fourth possession into points.

Toward the end of the first half, Sanders found Davis again on a touchdown pass, this time from 12 yards.

In a little less than three quarters, Sanders completed 14 of 23 passes for 138 yards and two touchdowns, and he added 19 rushing yards. Sanders was on the field for 45 plays — Browns coach Kevin Stefanski had said the rookie would get about 50 snaps — before Tyler Huntley, who was signed Tuesday after multiple quarterback injuries, entered the game with 2:12 remaining in the third quarter.

“I’m comfortable with being uncomfortable, so that’s what it is,” Sanders said. “I got pockets of finding my rhythm, and I got to get into that quicker, regardless of anything. But overall, I felt like me out there, and I couldn’t do it, of course, without the time. I couldn’t do it without the play calling. I couldn’t do without anything.”

He said he wasn’t nervous coming in, adding that his good moments in the second quarter were due to “just getting comfortable.”

“Did I play up to par? No, I don’t feel like I did,” he said. “But overall, the main goal was to win, and that’s honestly what we did.”

… Continue reading story here …

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August 8th

… CU in a few minutes … 

**CU Fall Sports Media Day: Coach Prime’s Press Conference**

… Coach Prime starts talking at the 31:00 minute mark of the video … At 1:02:00 mark, CU’s three quarterbacks – Kaidon Salter; Julian Lewis and Ryan Staub talk with the media … 

… From the Press Conference … 105 players on the team; 79 scholarship players; 26 walk-ons … 56 returning players on the roster … Offensive line probably has nine guys who could start that we don’t fear will mess it up … DBs are on point … LBs have more speed than last year … potentially eight starters in the wide receiver room … pass rushers doing a great job … specialists are off the chain … kickoffs all going through the end zone … Personnel and commitment to the running game will give Buffs a better running attack … Coach Prime “my old self”, walking at least a mile each day … We have a full house at the cornerback position; safeties are getting to the ball. I love what I see in the secondary, not just now, but for the future … Tight ends will do their job … We have a multitude of players on this team who will do what LaJohntay Wester is doing at the NFL level. Wester’s punt return in a preseason game great for recruiting … Wide receivers want to win, even if CU runs the ball more. It’s not the catches, it’s what you do with the catches … Jordan Seaton “The Franchise” – he’s learned how to be a pro. Everything we have told him would happen has happened … When it’s JuJu’s turn, he’s going to soar … Kaidon Salter has multiple talents. He can throw and he can run. He can read defenses. Don’t underestimate his throwing ability … Year One: Hope; Year Two: Expectations; Year Three? TBD … Arden Walker grades out above average every practice. Prepared to have a big year; he won’t play well in spurts … We’re going to win differently, but we’re going to win … I’ve grown tremendously as a coach. Our staff gets better every year. The roster gets better every year … DJ McKinney – Every scout, when they come to CU, he’s the first player they ask about … Some soft tissue injuries we’re working through right now … Going to be strange to watch Shedeur play his first NFL preseason game …

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August 7th

… CU in a few minutes … 

CU defensive line a strength: “Really excited about our run defense this year”

From the Daily Camera … The two defensive tackles that made the most starts at Colorado last year are gone, yet the Buffaloes might actually be stronger up front than they were a year ago.

CU is looking to replace Shane Cokes and Chidozie Nwankwo, who each started 10 games in 2024, and did so with veteran depth that’s already making a difference in preseason camp.

“I feel like the big guys are doing their job for the most part,” first-year defensive line coach Domata Peko said. “In camp, it’s going to be a tough grind, but for the first week, man, I feel like we’ve been doing a good job building a run wall, and all of us playing with good pad level. Really excited about our run defense this year.”

CU had a much-improved defense in 2024, but was average against the run, giving up 151.4 yards per game (eighth in the Big 12, 71st nationally).

Three key veterans who played a lot last year – seniors Anquin Barnes, Jr., Amari McNeill and Tawfiq Thomas – are back, while the Buffs added depth in the transfer portal. Tavian Coleman (Texas State), Gavriel Lightfoot (Fresno State) and Jehiem Oatis (Alabama) are all at least 300 pounds with experience and the ability to stop the run.

Taurean Carter II is also back after missing the last 11 games of 2024 with injury. He played in 33 games at Arkansas before transferring to CU last year.

… Continue reading story here …

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Naming Rights Deal: CU’s Indoor Practice Facility now named Ford Practice Facility 

Press Release from CUBuffs.com … Colorado Athletics and Buffalo Sports Properties have finalized a seven-year partnership with The Mountain States Ford Stores to become the official naming rights partner for the Indoor Practice Facility, now named Ford Practice Facility.

The Ford Practice Facility is a 108,000 square foot indoor facility designed to support nearly every CU sport. The facility features a full-sized football field, a six-lane, 300-meter track, and substantial space for conditioning, practices, and individual workouts.

“We are so excited to welcome Ford as the naming rights partner for our state-of-the-art indoor practice facility,” said Colorado Athletic Director Rick George. “In addition to having an iconic company join the Buffs family, there is a natural synergy between our indoor practice facility, which is a net-zero energy building featuring its own solar array, and the promotion of Ford’s excellent line of electric vehicles.”

With the new agreement, Ford will become the University of Colorado’s first Indoor Practice Facility naming rights partner in the nine-year history of the building.

The partnership encompasses a range of traditional and digital assets such as practice facility naming rights, intellectual property rights, presenting partner of CU Football first downs, prominent static signage, LED signage, and more.

“Your Mountain States Ford Stores are honored to be an integral part of the communities we serve,” said Greg Larson, Chairman of the Mountain States Ford Stores. “From youth activities to college and professional sports, we are proud to support the events and institutions that unite us. Partnering with the University of Colorado across all athletic programs is a true privilege, and we look forward to many unforgettable moments shared with fans under the iconic Flatirons.”

“We’re extremely proud to welcome Ford as a key partner of Colorado Athletics and Buffalo Sports Properties,” said Andrew Popchock, General Manager at Buffalo Sports Properties. “This partnership marks the beginning of an exciting era for Colorado Athletics, as our collaboration with Ford will continue to elevate and strengthen our athletes.”

Buffalo Sports Properties, the locally based team of Learfield – the media and technology company powering college athletics – is the exclusive multimedia rights holder for the University of Colorado Athletics and oversees all sponsorship agreements on behalf of the Buffaloes.

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August 5th

… CU in a few minutes … 

*Pass Rush Coordinator Warren Sapp meets with the media*

From YouTube, courtesy of BuffStampede.com …

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Safety Carter Stoutmire: “I feel like I can reset my game to the next level this year”

From the Daily Camera … In his first two seasons with the Colorado football team, Carter Stoutmire has been asked to do a little of everything in the secondary.

Whether he’s playing cornerback, safety or nickel back, Stoutmire typically has come through for the Buffaloes.

This year is a bit different for the junior, but he still views his versatility as a top asset.

“This year, they want me to focus on safety, but I’m a Swiss Army Knife still,” he said this week as the Buffs opened preseason practices. “So I train, I still gotta focus on all three different positions: corner, nickel, safety.”

This, however, was the first offseason in which Stoutmire has focused mainly on safety, a position his father, Omar, played for 11 NFL seasons from 1997-2007.

“Learning route concepts, stuff like that,” Stoutmire said of his offseason. “Getting with (defensive coordinator Robert Livingston), trying to learn the ins and outs, really playing middle of the field safety.”

On a defense tasked with replacing eight primary starters, Stoutmire is one of the most experienced players coming into this season.

Last year, he started seven games, three filling in for injured safety Shilo Sanders and four while filling in for injured nickel Preston Hodge. He finished sixth on the team with 42 tackles, while adding seven pass breakups. As a true freshman in 2023, he played in nine games, recording 11 tackles.

“Just coming through the system, paying my dues in my early years, learning how everything goes,” he said of previous experience paying off. “Getting used to how Coach Prime wants to operate the program, just instilling that to the young guys, trying to help us move forward.”

… Continue reading story here …

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Offensive line competition healthy: “Everybody wants it. They’re hungry”

From the Daily Camera … Zy Crisler says that he, along with the other big guys up front, are hungry.

That might be bad news for Colorado’s nutrition department, and the folks who run the kitchen at the Champions Center. But for a Buffaloes program starved for consistency up front, the sort of hunger that stirs competition could be one of the biggest keys to CU’s 2025 season.

Crisler, a 6-foot-7, 340-pound transfer from Illinois, is one of the most critical cogs along the Buffs’ retooled offensive line. Finding the pieces that will fuse cohesively alongside sophomore Jordan Seaton, who is entrenched at left tackle, is one of the priorities of the preseason for a CU attack breaking in a new quarterback along with an abundance of new talents at receiver and running back.

The good news, according to Crisler, is the competition up front means the guys that line up for the season opener at home against Georgia Tech on Aug. 29 will have earned the jobs.

“There’s competition every day,” Crisler said. “You never know what’s going on. You never know who you’re playing beside every day. It’s competition every day. Everybody want it. They’re hungry. I like competition because that means I ain’t going to get comfortable and then somebody going to take my spot. And that’s how I look at it.”

… Continue reading story here …

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August 4th 

… CU in a few minutes … 

*RB Coach Marshall Faulk meets the media*

From YouTube, courtesy of BuffStampede.com …

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CU Legacy Hall renovated to include Travis and Shedeur awards

From the Daily Camera … When Travis Hunter was honored with the Paul Hornung Award as the most versatile player in college football after the 2023 season, Colorado knew it was going to need some tweaking of Legacy Hall.

“It was kind of like, do we put it up right away, or do we wait?” CU associate athletic director for athletic communications Curtis Snyder said.

With Hunter having another year to play at CU, the answer was obvious, because, as CU creative director Brent DePaepe said, “This kid might bring home a couple more.”

Sure enough, Hunter put together the most decorated season ever by a college football player in 2024, while quarterback Shedeur Sanders brought home a national award of his own.

All of a sudden, Legacy Hall, with 10 national individual awards on display, needed room for 18 trophies.

Led by DePaepe, the project was completed this past weekend, highlighted by Hunter and Rashaan Salaam being honored as the only Heisman Trophy winners in CU history.

“I’m happy with it,” DePaepe said of the final product. “I hope the guys are happy with it, I hope their families are happy with it.”

… Continue reading story here …

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August 3rd

… CU in a few minutes … 

Another national writer recants: Coach Prime’s commitment can never be questioned again

From Ari Wasserman at On3Sports … There are few people on this planet who could reveal during a news conference that they had — and beat — bladder cancer while also making people laugh. But Colorado coach Deion Sanders, a one-of-a-kind human being with unmatched charisma, managed to draw smiles in that setting earlier this week.

“I mean, thank God,” Sanders said, drowning out his vulnerability with strength. “Now I depend on Depends, if you know what I mean. I truly depend on Depends. I cannot control my bladder. I get up and go to the bathroom already four or five times a night, but then I’m sitting up there waking up like my grandson. We in the same thing.

“(My grandson and I) got the same problem right now. We going through the same trials and tribulations. We kind of see who has the heaviest bag at the end of the night. It is ridiculous, but I’m making a joke out of it. But it’s real. So if you see a Porta Potty on the sideline, it is real. OK? I’m just telling you right now, you’re going to see it.”

Throughout his entire coaching career, Sanders has been so easy to criticize. He doesn’t recruit high school kids enough; he doesn’t travel to high schools or other towns for in-home visits; he spends too much time in Texas rather than Colorado; he’s only into coaching so he can have a hand in the development of his son, Shedeur Sanders; he’ll leave Colorado the second a bigger, better job opens. You’ve heard the usual tropes, some of which have come from me.

But after witnessing what Sanders just did, it feels wrong having criticized him at all.

Yes, some of the criticism is/was warranted. When you’re a college football coach, you open yourself up to critiques, especially in the realm of talent accumulation. There is one criticism, however, that none of us can collectively ever say again: that Sanders isn’t fully committed to being a college football coach.

Sanders never needed to be a coach to begin with. A College and Pro Football Hall of Famer, Sanders could have slowed his life down, reveled in his fame, done Geico commercials and lived a prosperous, slow life. He didn’t have to jump into college coaching, especially now that acquiring and maintaining a roster is as dysfunctional as it’s ever been in the sport’s history. It’s cool being a college coach, but it’s not easy.

Even so, he did it. Some said it was to coach his son and eventual Heisman Trophy Award-winner Travis Hunter. Those same people predicted he’d be gone with them.

But no, Sanders stayed. With bladder cancer, something that was life-threatening. If you want to question a man’s commitment to his craft, go ahead. You can’t now. Sanders just battled through a health-condition that not only threatened his life, has long-term effects on how he lives after he beat it. And he’s joking about it.

Why? So he could do the single most impactful thing he’s done at Colorado. This is bigger than winning, than building a program or even getting his players selected in the NFL Draft. With the entire world watching, Sanders delivered a message we all need to hear.

… Read full story here …

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August 2nd

… CU in a few minutes …

Colorado Sports Hall of Fame names Dave Plati official Colorado Sports Historian

Press release from CUBuffs.com …  With Colorado gearing up to celebrate its 150th “birthday” as a state a year from today, the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame in the coming year will commemorate the milestone by highlighting the 150 greatest sports stories in the history of the Centennial State.

The stories will be counted down — from 150th to first, likely five or so at a time — on the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame website (coloradosports.org) beginning early in 2026 and likely in one or two other ways. Story No. 1 is expected to be divulged just before August 1, 2026, the day the state turns 150 years old.

In conjunction with the project, the Hall of Fame has designated University of Colorado sports information director emeritus Dave Plati its official Colorado Sports Historian. In that role, Plati will coordinate the 150 greatest sports stories project, working with a small, select committee.  Plati is the chair of the CSHOF Selection Committee (and is also on the boards for the Colorado Golf and Colorado Music Hall of Fames).

“Dave brings a long history of knowledge and passion for sports history in Colorado,” said Tom Lawrence, the President & CEO of the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame, which was founded in 1964 by U.S. Supreme Court Justice Byron White.  “As chairman of the CSHOF Selection Committee, with the help of his some of his fellow selection committee members from Colorado sports media, his statewide perspective of sports history is second to none.  We are excited for Dave to share his knowledge of sports history in Colorado with the citizens of this great sports state as the official state sports historian.”

… Continue reading story here …

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CU’s Folsom Field: Most expensive college gameday experience in the country

From the Daily Camera … The Prime Effect has come at a cost to University of Colorado football fans, according to a survey of gameday costs announced Wednesday by an oddsmaker.

It now costs more than $300 for two people to attend a game — the most expensive of 100 NCAA gamedays, including tickets, beers, sodas, hot dogs and parking for two fans heading to Folsom Field to cheer on the Buffs.

According to the Oddspedia 2025 College Football Gameday Index, Colorado jumped from fourth to first in the national rankings, despite missing the 12-team college football playoff and losing the Alamo Bowl last season.

The biggest contributor was $228 for two tickets, the highest in college football and more than double the national average ticket cost across the 100 schools analyzed, according to Oddspedia.

Colorado was the only school to eclipse the $300 mark this season.

The team led by Deion “Coach Prime” Sanders improved dramatically last fall in terms of fan experience, outscoring opponents by 75 points and by almost 11 points per game on average. Under Sanders, the Buffs’ total gameday cost rose 13.6% year over year and now sits 63.5% above the national average.

According to the survey, the average gameday cost across the country for two people is $184.67, an increase of 2.7% year over year.

Second and third most expensive gamedays were at Alabama ($295) and Texas ($292). The cheapest were at Western Kentucky ($84), Arkansas State ($86) and Ohio ($100).

Beer prices for two ranged from $6 at Tulane to $20 at Stanford.

A full breakdown plus sortable rankings and the beer index are online here.

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August 1st

… CU in a few minutes … 

*OC Pat Shurmur talks with the press at Fall Camp*

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July 31st 

… CU in a few minutes … 

Jordan Seaton named to watchlist for Outland Trophy

Press release from CUBuffs.com … Sophomore left tackle Jordan Seaton was named to the preseason watchlist for the 2025 Outland Trophy, given to the best interior lineman in college football, as voted upon by the Football Writers Association of America, the organization announced Tuesday.

Seaton is one of 50 returning standout interior linemen representing nine of the FBS conferences and Independents. He is one of 16 offensive tackles and 10 players from the Big 12 to be named to the watchlist.

A Freshman All-American in 2024, Seaton enters his true sophomore season as one of the team’s leaders.  He earned freshmen All-America honors from On3, 247 Sports, and PFF and was the College Football News Big 12 Freshman of the Year while being named honorable mention All-Big 12 and the honorable mention Big 12 Freshman of the Year by the coaches.  A Shaun Alexander semifinalist, he was also a midseason freshman All-American and the True Freshman of the Week by 247 in week 9.

He became the first true freshman to start a season opener at offensive tackle in CU history and started all 13 games, playing the most offensive snaps on the offense.  He allowed three sacks in 611 pass protection plays and did not allow a sack in 11 of CU’s 13 games.  He was the highest graded true freshman in pass protection with at least 100 snaps by PFF with a 75.3 grade.

The recipient of the 2025 Outland Trophy will be announced on The Home Depot College Football Awards, live on ESPN on Friday, Dec. 12. The official trophy presentation to the winner will be made at the Outland Trophy Awards Dinner sponsored by Werner Enterprises and produced by the Greater Omaha Sports Committee on Jan. 21, 2026 in Omaha, Neb.

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July 3oth

… CU in a few minutes … 

*DC Robert Livingston talks with the press at Fall Camp*

From YouTube, courtesy of BuffStampede.com …

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Bryon Leftwich joining CU’s coaching staff

From the Daily Camera … For several months, Colorado head football coach Deion Sanders has tried to get former NFL quarterback Byron Leftwich to join the Buffaloes’ staff.

That move is now apparently in the works.

Sanders introduced Leftwich at a team meeting Tuesday, per a video posted on YouTube by Thee Pregame Network. Although the hire is not official, a BuffZone source confirmed that Leftwich will be joining the staff in some capacity. It’s unknown what his title will be with the Buffs, but it’s likely he will help mentor the quarterbacks.

Jordan Schultz of Fox reported in March that Leftwich, 45, would be joining the CU staff, but that did not materialize in the spring. Then, at Big 12 media days in Frisco, Texas, earlier this month, Sanders mentioned Leftwich and said, “I’m praying that he does the right thing (and comes to CU).”

Leftwich played for 10 seasons in the NFL before embarking on a coaching career. He most recently was the offensive coordinator for the NFL’s Tampa Bay Buccaneers from 2019-22, working for three years with future Hall of Fame quarterback Tom Brady. Leftwich helped the Bucs to a victory in Super Bowl LV.

Although he hasn’t coached since 2022, Leftwich interviewed in January for the head coaching position with the New England Patriots. He also interviewed for the offensive coordinator job with the Seattle Seahawks.

Leftwich has been around the CU program a bit during Sanders’ previous two seasons. He has visited Boulder to see the Buffs play and was at some practices this past spring.

… Continue reading story here …

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July 29th

… CU in a few minutes … 

Charlie Offerdahl medically retiring from football due to concussions

From the Daily Camera … Colorado running back Charlie Offerdahl is retiring from football after several concussions.

On a video posted on head coach Deion Sanders’ Instagram page, Offerdahl informed the team of his decision during a team meeting on Tuesday morning.

“Obviously I haven’t been here this summer,” Offerdahl told the team. “If it’s not obvious already, I won’t be coming back this year. How serious this last concussion was and how many I’ve had leading up to it is pretty scary for me and my family, but I will be hanging it up.”

The 5-foot-11, 190-pound Offerdahl is a senior who had one more year of eligibility. CU, which opens the season Aug. 29 against Georgia Tech at Folsom Field, held its first preseason practice on Tuesday.

“Obviously this is a really tough decision for me because of how much football does mean to me,” said Offerdahl, who rushed for 280 yards in his career. “I’ve been playing it since third grade.”

… Continue reading story here …

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July 28th

… CU in a few minutes … 

Meet Dr. Janet Kukreja: Top Bladder Cancer Surgeon in the nation

From UCHealthToday … When it comes to life-saving bladder cancer surgeries, Dr. Janet Kukreja is the top surgeon in the U.S.

Kukreja is North America’s most prolific “cystectomist.” This means that she performs radical cystectomies — the removal of a cancerous bladder and neighboring tissues, followed by the sewing together of alternatives — all via a surgical robot.

Kukreja does about 150 of these robotic surgeries each year at UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital on the Anschutz Medical Campus. Kukreja is also an associate professor of urology surgery at the University of Colorado School of Medicine.

As the leading surgeon in her field, Kukreja cares for patients from multiple states in the Rocky Mountain region and across the U.S. She’s also a mentor and teacher for newer doctors who are learning how to save the lives of bladder cancer patients.

Intuitive Surgical, maker of the Da Vinci Surgical System, which Kukreja uses for her robotic surgeries, sends doctors from around the country to Colorado to learn how to do cystectomies. Newer surgeons watch and listen as Kukreja works.

… Continue reading story here …

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Coach Prime reports undergoing surgery to remove his bladder; now “cancer-free”

Dr. Janet Kukreja declared Sanders “cured of cancer,” adding that she doesn’t “use that word lightly.”

From ESPN … University of Colorado football coach Deion Sanders announced Monday that he had undergone surgery to remove his bladder after doctors discovered a tumor there. Sanders said, since the surgery, there are no traces of cancer, and he will continue to coach this season.

In a packed Touchdown Club in the Dal Ward Athletic Center, Sanders was both serious in tone as well as celebratory and full of humor about what he had been through as he appeared with Dr. Janet Kukreja, director of urological oncology at University of Colorado Cancer Center.

Kukreja declared Sanders “cured of cancer,” adding that she doesn’t “use that word lightly.”

“This was not an easy task. … It was dynamic. It was tough. It wasn’t a cakewalk. It wasn’t easy,” said Sanders, who added he lost about 25 pounds. “That was a fight, but we made it.”

Sanders, Kukreja and Colorado team trainer Lauren Askevold spent just over 40 minutes answering questions that have swirled around Sanders in the offseason.

Askevold said the bladder tumor was discovered during one of the regular routine vascular exams that Sanders has because of his history of blood clots in his legs.

“He never folded one time and never wavered,” Askevold said. “You couldn’t ask for a better patient because he wants to get up and get going right. So it’s been awesome. It’s been a hectic journey, but there’s a blessing very in disguise with all this.”

The 57-year-old Sanders said he did not even tell most of his family or closest friends what the extent of his illness was, including sons Shedeur and Shilo as well as Travis Hunter as the three prepared for the NFL draft.

“They didn’t know what the extent of it was,” Sanders said, “… so they could be focused on making the team and not focused on dad.”

Sanders said he even went as far as to change his cellphone numbers “a couple of times” to keep from talking to too many people.

Sanders has largely been out of the public eye in recent months, save for an appearance at Big 12 media days earlier this month when he acknowledged Big 12 commissioner Brett Yormark for repeatedly checking in on him and praised Colorado athletic director Rick George.

Sanders deflected questions about his health at Big 12 media days and previously had not publicly offered any specifics.

On Monday, however, Sanders expounded on his faith, his recovery, his desire to continue coaching and the challenges of having his bladder removed and the radical change “in lifestyle” following the surgery. He alternated between humor and the somber realization of being a cancer survivor.

“I can’t pee like I used to,” Sanders said with a laugh. “… I depend on Depends. … I’m making a joke out of it, but it is real. It is real. It is real. If you see a port-a-potty on the sideline, it is real, I’m just telling you. You’re going to see one at practice, on the sideline [in games].”

… Continue reading story here …

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July 27th

… CU in a few minutes … 

Fall Camp Preview: Key position battles

From the Daily Camera … During preseason camp, the Buffs will go through several battles for starting spots, and they’ll look for numerous players to step up. Here’s a primer for CU’s preseason camp:

Key position battles

1. Quarterback: For the first time in Coach Prime’s tenure, there will be a competition for the starting job at quarterback. His son, Shedeur, was the no-doubt starter the past two years and he shattered numerous school records, but he’s now in the NFL. Fifth-year Kaidon Salter, an experienced transfer from Liberty, will battle with true freshman JuJu Lewis, a five-star recruit with an exceptional arm.

2. Offensive line: CU’s line has struggled the past two years, but this appears to be the best group Coach Prime has had during his tenure. Who starts remains to be seen, however. Sophomore Jordan Seaton has left tackle locked up, while transfers Xavier Hill (Memphis) and Zy Crisler (Illinois) appear to be front-runners at guard. Competition for spots will be intense, however, as the Buffs brought in nine transfers and have nine seniors and two juniors competing.

3. Inside linebacker: Both starting linebackers from last year are gone, so this group will look much different. Transfers Martavius French (UTSA) and Reginald Hughes (Jacksonville State) both have experience, and both were all-conference players last year, but will be taking a step up in competition level in the Power Four. Returning senior Jeremiah Brown and transfer Shaun Myers (North Alabama) will be among those fighting for spots.

… Continue reading story here …

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July 26th

… CU in a few minutes … 

Coach Prime “Back and Feeling Great” (press conference – with doctors – on Monday)

… From CUBuffs.com …Welcome to the 2025 college football season and the 136th season of Colorado Buffaloes football.

From Sports Illustrated … Colorado Buffaloes head coach Deion Sanders has been dealing with a health issue throughout the summer. The NFL Hall of Famer has made a few public comments on the matter but never got into specifics, only acknowledging that he was going through something but was well and in good spirits otherwise.

On Friday, with his team set to kick off training camp in a few days, Sanders gave a brief four-word announcement on his health situation via his X account.

“Back and Feeling Great!” Sanders tweeted early on Friday morning.

A positive update.

There will be many eyes on Sanders’s Buffaloes during the 2025 college football season as fans and analysts alike wonder how he’ll coach without his son, Shedeur Sanders, under center. Fortunately it seems Sanders is in good health as he embarks on the new year.

… Read full story here …

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July 25th

… CU in a few minutes … 

CU introduces “The Arch” – “A Bridge to the New Era of College Athletics”

Press release from CUBuffs.com …

Buff Nation,

When met with a challenge, CU Athletics has a track record of meeting the moment with creativity and innovation. In these changing times in collegiate athletics, we’ve examined a number of different ways CU can remain an industry leader, particularly in Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL), which is going to be an essential key to our success.

With that spirit in mind, I’m excited to announce our latest NIL initiative, The Arch, which connects our student-athletes to the business community like never before. If you own a business of any size you can now engage with our student-athletes to enhance your brand while leveraging the power of CU Athletics to benefit your business.

This first-of-its-kind program not only brings your business into the family of CU partners, it directly supports our student-athletes, enhancing the world-class experience that brings some of the best athletes from all over the world to Boulder. To help facilitate our aggressive NIL initiatives, we’ve also bolstered our NIL staff by adding two members, whose responsibilities will partly be to maintain The Arch.

To find out more, please visit The Arch website and if you own a business, again of any size, I urge you to get involved by completing the interest form.  Your support will help us build a bridge to this new era of CU Athletics.

Together, we remain truly Buffs United!

Go Buffs!

Rick

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Tags: Byron Leftwich, Carter Stoutmire, Hykeem Williams, Jordan Seaton, Joseph Williams, Keaten Wade, Larry Johnson III, Omarion Miller, Preston Hodge, Tawfiq Byard, Xavier Hill, Zach Atkins
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