The Colorado Buffaloes are embarking on a fresh journey in 2026, steering away from their previous 'Prime' years. Head coach Deion Sanders, following a challenging 2025 season, has promised sweeping changes. After a successful 2024 with ten wins and a Heisman Trophy winner, the following year didn't meet expectations, and Sanders knew adjustments were needed.
Sanders faced a tough offseason, dealing with negative draft narratives and a personal battle with cancer. His absence was felt, and he signaled big changes were on the horizon, emphasizing a shift in mentality as the core issue.
In his candid post-game press conference, Sanders didn't hold back. "We won’t be in this situation again," he declared, highlighting the need for a change in mentality, personnel, and coaching. Sanders believes mentality is crucial, stating, "You don’t develop mentality, you select mentality."
To kickstart this transformation, Sanders brought in Brennan Marion as the offensive coordinator. Marion, known for his "go-go" offense, brings a fast-paced, dynamic approach that focuses on maximizing big play potential. His partnership with Sanders is built on accountability, a theme central to the team's new direction.
Sanders also surprised many by hiring Josh Niblett, a high school coach from Gainesville, Florida. Despite the leap from high school to college football, Niblett’s motivational approach has already made waves: "A better you, makes a better CU."
The program's tone is noticeably different heading into 2026, with Sanders delivering on his promise of change. However, these changes challenge traditional college football norms. With NIL and the transfer portal reshaping the landscape, Colorado has parted ways with high-priced talent, opting instead for players from lower-level programs.
This strategy is a gamble. While it could prove successful, it also risks falling short against teams stacked with top-tier talent. The question remains: will this unconventional approach pay off?
Sanders is also reinventing the Spring Game. For the second year, he attempted to schedule a joint practice with Syracuse, but the NCAA denied the request.
Instead, Sanders has put the Spring Game in the hands of his players, creating two full teams to compete against each other. This innovative Spring Game Draft adds a new layer of excitement and engagement.
If successful, Sanders’ approach could redefine spring games, making them more impactful for players and fans alike. However, if the regular season doesn’t show improvement, this could be seen as a distraction amid financial challenges and past performance issues.
The Buffaloes are at a crossroads, and only time will tell if Sanders' bold moves will lead to a brighter future.