Colorado Names Ryan Staub Starting QB vs Houston

Colorado Buffaloes head coach Deion Sanders has named Ryan Staub as the starting quarterback for the team's 2025 Big 12 opener against Houston, a move that surprised many given Staub's initial third-string status behind transfer Kaidon Salter and highly-touted recruit Julian Lewis. Staub earned the starting nod after an impressive performance against Delaware, where he completed 7 of 10 passes for 157 yards and two touchdowns, leading Colorado to a 31-7 victory. Despite competition from Salter and Lewis, Staub showed confidence, poise, and a strong connection with offensive coordinator Pat Shurmur, traits that influenced Sanders' decision. Staub's transition to starter marks his second career start, having previously started in 2023 against Utah. Sanders declined to publicly discuss his quarterback strategy but affirmed he had a clear plan for the position going forward. This change reflects Sanders' trust in Staub's ability to energize the offense as Colorado faces a challenging conference schedule ahead.