In a significant shake-up for the Colorado Buffaloes, head coach Deion Sanders is shuffling his staff as spring practice approaches. Defensive coordinator Robert Livingston has been snapped up by the Denver Broncos as their new defensive pass game coordinator. Livingston's move marks a return to the NFL, where he previously spent over a decade with the Cincinnati Bengals before joining Sanders in Boulder.
Livingston's departure leaves a gap in Colorado's defense, but Sanders has moved swiftly, promoting linebackers coach Chris Marve to the role of defensive coordinator. Marve brings a wealth of experience, having served as the defensive coordinator at Virginia Tech and held various assistant roles at Florida State, Mississippi State, and Vanderbilt.
The Buffaloes are eager to rebound from a challenging 2025 season, where they finished 3-9 overall and struggled in Big 12 play. The team felt the absence of stars like Travis Hunter and quarterback Shedeur Sanders, leading to a dramatic drop-off from their impressive 9-4 campaign in 2024.
Deion Sanders, tasked with a major rebuilding project, has a record of 16-21 over his three seasons with Colorado. Despite the recent setbacks, Sanders remains confident in his vision for the team, stating he's the "right man for the job." His confidence is echoed by outgoing athletic director Rick George, who has consistently supported Sanders.
With a new athletic director, Fernando Lovo, stepping in from New Mexico, Sanders faces the pressure of turning the program around in 2026. The team has been active in the transfer portal, bringing in 25 new players to revitalize the defense.
Now, with Chris Marve at the helm of the defense, Sanders is hopeful for a fresh start and a successful season. The Buffaloes are looking to bounce back and prove that they can compete at a high level once again.