3 reasons why Deion Sanders' Colorado Buffaloes could lose against Baylor in Week 4
Deion Sanders has attracted plenty of attention to the Colorado Buffaloes since taking over as coach ahead of the 2023 season. Colorado has only had one player selected in the top-five of the NFL Draft - in 1995 - but that will likely change in the 2025 NFL Draft, as Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter are candidates to be selected in the top-five.
Despite having two of college football's premier players, the program has struggled on the field. After starting last season 3-0, the Buffaloes dropped eight of their final nine games.
Colorado has gotten off to a 2-1 start in 2024 and will host the Baylor Bears in their first Big 12 matchup since rejoining the conference this summer. Take a look at three reasons why the Buffaloes could fall to 2-2:
Three reasons why Deion Sanders' Colorado Buffaloes could lose to Baylor in Week 4
#1 Failing to protect Shedeur Sanders
Shedeur Sanders entered the season with the expectation of being among the best quarterbacks in college football. He has produced at a high level, throwing for 999 yards, nine touchdowns and two interceptions, completing 70.2% of his passes.
In the Colorado Buffaloes' two wins, he has accounted for 755 yards, eight touchdowns and one interception, completing 74.7% of his passes. More importantly, he has been sacked just two times.
In their lone loss, he completed 60.5% of his passes for 244 yards, one touchdown and one interception while being sacked five times. Keeping him protected will be key.
#2 Losing the turnover battle
The Colorado Buffaloes finally won the turnover battle in Week 3. It was no coincidence that it was their best game of the season, as they picked up a 28-9 road victory against their intrastate rival, the Colorado State Rams.
The Buffaloes forced four turnovers in the win after failing to produce a single one over the first two weeks. They must continue to make plays on defense.
#3 Failing to get the rushing game going
The Colorado Buffaloes entered Week 3 as the worst rushing team in college football. They were averaging just 37.5 rushing yards per game and 1.7 yards per carry over the first two weeks.
The running game finally produced, as they ran for 109 yards and 5.7 yards per carry. If they are unable to maintain a balanced attack, they could be in for a long game against the Rams.