Deion “Coach Prime” Sanders, the charismatic and ever-captivating head coach of the Colorado Buffaloes football program, held his highly anticipated first press conference of fall camp, and as always, he did not disappoint. It wasn’t just about football—it was about the culture, the purpose, the transformation underway in Boulder, and the unshakable belief that something special is building under his leadership. The press conference was less a formality and more a powerful window into the mindset, motivations, and direction of a program trying to move from national curiosity to serious contender status.
Coach Prime began with a firm and confident tone, expressing gratitude for being back in full football mode after an eventful offseason. He emphasized how blessed he feels to be healthy enough to continue leading the team after dealing with several medical concerns, including blood clots that required multiple surgeries on his legs. With gratitude came a sense of urgency. Sanders made it clear that there are no excuses and no room for distractions—he’s back to doing what he loves, and he’s locked in. “We’re here to dominate,” he said. “Not just compete. That’s not our standard. We came here to dominate, in every sense.”
The first wave of fall camp, according to Sanders, has already been different. The atmosphere, the energy, and most importantly, the personnel. After a massive roster overhaul in 2023 that brought in over 50 transfers and drew national headlines and heavy scrutiny, Coach Prime assured everyone that this year’s roster is more stable, more experienced, and more cohesive. He pointed out that while last year’s team had a lot of talent, it lacked continuity. “We’ve got dogs now,” he smiled. “Not just talented kids. We’ve got players who love this game, who want to earn it, and who understand what it means to wear this uniform.”
Coach Prime didn’t shy away from addressing the critics and doubters. He acknowledged that the 4–8 record from last season wasn’t good enough and made no excuses about the losses. However, he also reminded the media that the program inherited was “dead” and needed resuscitation before it could be built up again. “Last year, we laid the foundation. It was messy, it was loud, it was chaotic at times. But you’ve got to shake things up to build something new. And now we’re building.”
When pressed about the quarterback situation, Sanders once again placed his faith in his son and team leader, Shedeur Sanders. He praised Shedeur’s growth as both a player and a leader, noting that he’s entering this season “in the best shape of his life” and with “a chip on his shoulder.” Coach Prime believes that Shedeur, who threw for over 3,000 yards last season despite constant pressure and being sacked a nation-leading 52 times, has all the tools to be not just one of the best quarterbacks in college football, but also a first-round NFL draft pick. “He’s got everything they look for, and more. But most importantly, he’s got that heart,” Sanders said. “He doesn’t flinch.”
Sanders also took time to highlight several position groups that he believes have drastically improved. The offensive line was at the top of that list. Last season, it was one of Colorado’s weakest units and was largely responsible for the team’s inability to close out games. Coach Prime revealed that they brought in seven new linemen from the transfer portal, including Power Five starters and experienced veterans. He praised their work ethic and physicality, noting that Shedeur has already noticed the difference in protection during early practices. “We made it a priority, and we got better. Period.”
Defensively, Sanders was equally enthusiastic. He spoke glowingly about the return of Travis Hunter, who will once again play both sides of the ball as a cornerback and wide receiver. Sanders marveled at Hunter’s conditioning and mentality. “He’s a unicorn. You can’t coach that. You can only guide it,” Sanders said. He also mentioned that Hunter has taken a significant step forward as a vocal leader, mentoring younger players and setting the standard in practice.
Another key name mentioned was five-star freshman Cormani McClain, who had a rocky start to his college career last year. Sanders said McClain has matured and now fully understands what’s expected of him. “He’s not a kid anymore. He’s becoming a man. He’s not just here to be flashy—he’s here to make plays.”
Coach Prime addressed the coaching staff as well, noting a few offseason adjustments and praising the cohesion among his coordinators and assistants. He emphasized the importance of having a staff that not only knows football but also connects with the players on a personal level. “We’ve got teachers, mentors, big brothers. That’s what these kids need,” he said. He made a point to highlight defensive coordinator Charles Kelly and offensive coordinator Pat Shurmur for bringing stability and NFL-level knowledge to the locker room.
In terms of culture, Sanders stressed discipline, accountability, and faith. He said the team starts every day with prayer and intention. “We pray together, we grind together, we believe together,” he said. He wants the Buffaloes to be known not just for highlight plays, but for how they carry themselves on and off the field. Sanders frequently returned to the theme of “purpose”—he doesn’t just want wins, he wants young men who understand why they’re playing and what they’re representing.
Sanders shared updates on player development and the depth chart, noting that while there are a few locked-in starters, many positions are still up for grabs. “Nobody’s job is safe. You earn your spot every day,” he said. He particularly pointed out that competition has been fierce among the linebackers and running backs, and he expects these battles to make the team sharper and more resilient.
Injuries were also addressed, though Sanders downplayed any major concerns. He said a few players are being monitored with precautionary holds, but there’s nothing serious enough to change plans heading into the heart of camp. He also reaffirmed his own health progress and brushed aside questions about whether he’d limit his activity on the field. “I’m out here every day. I’m not going anywhere. God’s got me.”
Recruiting came up near the end of the press conference, and Sanders spoke with pride about Colorado’s positioning in the national landscape. He noted that top recruits are now actively reaching out to the Buffaloes, eager to be part of what’s happening in Boulder. He cited the brand’s growth, the influence of his sons, and the team’s high-profile presence on national media as major factors. “We’re not chasing anybody anymore. They’re calling us now,” Sanders said. “We’ve built something that kids want to be a part of.”
He was also asked about the upcoming schedule and how he’s preparing his players for what is expected to be a brutal Pac-12 slate—one of the most competitive conferences in its final year before major realignment. Sanders didn’t flinch, instead welcoming the challenge. “Iron sharpens iron. You want to be the best, you play the best. That’s how we grow. That’s how we get to where we’re going.”
As the press conference wound down, Sanders took a moment to speak to the fans. He thanked the Boulder community and the wider Buffaloes faithful for their unwavering support and packed stadiums during a rollercoaster 2023 season. He promised that the best is yet to come and asked fans to keep believing. “You stuck with us when we were just starting. Now, stick with us while we finish what we started.”
In classic Coach Prime fashion, he closed with a line that summed up the entire spirit of the session. “We ain’t coming no more—we’re here. Now watch what we do with it.”
With fall camp officially underway and Coach Prime once again commanding attention with passion, clarity, and unwavering belief, the Colorado Buffaloes enter the 2025 season not as a team hoping to make headlines, but as one determined to make history.
