Deion Sanders sends a strong message to Buffaloes after pulling plug on dismal spring practice - “That’s a problem.”
Colorado head coach Deion Sanders made his frustrations clear after abruptly ending a lackluster spring practice session, sending a stern warning to his team about accountability and effort.
The Buffaloes, with Sanders' energetic leadership, have been under scrutiny like never before since his arrival, and the latest incident highlights the challenges of a program in transition.
On Tuesday, Deion Sanders shut down Colorado's spring practice after seeing what he considered an unacceptable amount of concentration and execution from his players. Sanders is famous for his no-nonsense style, and he didn't hold anything back when he spoke to the media after the incident.
“That’s a problem,” Sanders said bluntly. “If we’re not going to practice the right way, with the right intensity, then we’re not going to practice at all. Period.”
The abrupt end to practice is the latest example of Sanders' uncompromising standards for the Buffaloes. Since taking over in 2023, he has been vocal about instilling a championship mentality in a program that has struggled for relevance in the Big 12.
Coach Prime has set a high standard among his players, so anything less than the absolute best is unacceptable.
Deion Sanders Demands More from the Players
The Hall of Fame cornerback turned coach has never been the one to tolerate mediocrity. His frustration stems from what he perceives as a lack of urgency from certain players, particularly those who may be complacent after last season's mixed results.
“You can’t just show up and expect to win,” Sanders emphasized. “You’ve got to put in the work every single day. If you’re not willing to do that, then you’re in the wrong place.”
This is not the first time Deion Sanders has publicly challenged his team. Last season, he called out players for lacking discipline and failing to meet expectations.
While the Buffaloes showed flashes of brilliance, most notably in their thrilling Week 1 upset over TCU, they finished the year 4-8, exposing glaring weaknesses in depth and consistency.
The Buffaloes' 2025 recruiting class has been a step in the right direction, with several four-star commitments bolstering the roster. Yet, Sanders knows talent alone isn't enough; discipline and effort are non-negotiable.
“We’re not here to just compete; we’re here to dominate,” Sanders declared. “But domination starts in practice. If we’re not locked in now, what’s going to happen when the lights come on?”
As the Colorado prepares for its transition to the Big 12, the pressure is on Deion Sanders to turn the promises into results.