The Colorado Buffaloes endured a tough time in 2022, finishing a disheartening 1-11 on the college football field. Following that season, they made a bold move by hiring Deion Sanders, famously known as “Coach Prime,” from Jackson State, a program in the FCS division. What made this transition even more intriguing was that Coach Prime brought along his sons—quarterback Shedeur Sanders and safety Shilo Sanders—as well as top recruit Travis Hunter. In just two seasons, Coach Prime transformed the Buffaloes, taking them from the depths of despair to an impressive 9-4 record, largely thanks to his savvy use of the transfer portal to revamp the team. It was a remarkable turnaround that caught the attention of college football fans everywhere.
Now, as Deion Sanders embarks on his third year at the FBS level, he faces a monumental challenge. Both sons and Travis Hunter have moved on to the NFL, marking a significant shift in the roster. In response, Coach Prime has once again turned to the transfer portal, aggressively recruiting talent to keep the momentum going in Boulder. With his previous record achieved against a grueling Big 12 competition, he knows that replicating his success will not be an easy feat. Observing his approach to practice, it’s clear that he is fully aware of the stakes involved.
Recently, Deion Sanders Jr. released a captivating YouTube video, giving fans a glimpse into the Buffaloes’ offseason training. It featured a striking moment where Coach Prime kicked off his iconic morning meeting by asking his players how they could enhance this “beautiful day.” The responses varied, showcasing the players’ aspirations and determination:
However, the response that seemed to resonate the most with Coach Prime was “Set the tone.” This mantra reflects the essence of what Deion is instilling in his players: a relentless mindset and the drive to make a mark from the very beginning.
With numerous spots available in the starting lineup, Colorado players understand that each practice is an opportunity. They can’t just wait for motivation; instead, they need to flip the switch on their own, willingly stepping into their roles and proving that they belong. Coach Prime’s guidance to them is both simple and profound: Be ready.
“You don’t have to get ready when you’re ready… this is on-the-job training. You got to be ready… some of y’all are going to get an opportunity, and you never know when it’s gonna come. And you gotta be ready,” Coach Prime articulated during that motivational moment. These words serve as a crucial reminder that success is born from preparation and dedication.
As the team hit the practice field for the first time, the energy was palpable. The coaching staff remarked positively about the players’ efforts but emphasized that this was merely the start of a long journey. With the clock ticking down to August 29, there may still be elements of their game that need fine-tuning. However, Coach Prime and his squad are set to rise to the occasion, embodying the resilience and commitment required to face the challenge head-on. The Buffaloes are preparing, and one thing is certain: they will be ready.
Image Source: Ringo Chiu / Shutterstock
