Big 12 Coaches Criticize Colorado Culture, Transfer Reliance Under Deion Sanders

Deion Sanders enters his third season as head coach at Colorado facing significant challenges, including the departure of star players like Heisman winner Travis Hunter and quarterback Shedeur Sanders to the NFL, and the need to rebuild a roster heavily reliant on transfers. While some anonymous Big 12 coaches criticize the program as a "circus" due to high turnover and question Colorado's offensive line and culture, others defend Sanders by highlighting improved academic performance and increased fan engagement under his leadership. The Buffaloes have actively recruited through the transfer portal and high school, securing several four-star recruits and transfers to fill key roster gaps. Despite on-field and roster uncertainties, Sanders continues to pursue top recruits such as linebacker Ezaya Tokio, signaling his commitment to building the program from scratch without relying on his sons. Meanwhile, Colorado fans expressed disappointment over Sanders' omission from the College Football 26 game cover, interpreting it as a snub given his high profile and influence in college football. Overall, Sanders' tenure at Colorado is marked by both skepticism and support, with his impact extending beyond wins and losses to culture and recruiting in the competitive Big 12 landscape.