In his first press conference since Big 12 Media Days, Colorado head coach Deion “Coach Prime” Sanders pulled no punches when describing the battlefield of fall camp.
Whistles are blowing, the pads have come on and all 22 starting positions are open for the Buffaloes. Spending the week away, practicing at Fountain-Fort Carson High School, emotions have already started out chippy among the group.
“Practices have been wonderful and very competitive. You see skirmishes, you see fights. You’re going to see that,” Sanders said. “If you don’t see that something’s wrong…I'm pleased with the effort that we're giving.”
In the early stages of camp, the team is reinstalling plays, going over base formations and trying to find an identity. More than in years past, Sanders is relying on his coordinators to communicate and implement a successful strategy for the season.
The offense will be headed by Brennan Marion and the defense by Chris Marve. Both coordinators were new to the program this winter.
“These guys are good, fundamentally sound, creative, innovative; they're born leaders,” Sanders said. “They're head coaches that are coaching the offense and defense. The young men are responding to them…I love the energy that these coaches are providing.”
Sanders was cautious to praise players individually, choosing to highlight groups by positions instead. Without true live periods, there have been lots of shuffling in the “starting” rotations, as the Buffs try and find their best players.
In the trenches, the Buffs may have found their strength. Sanders feels confident in his offensive line as they've stood out during camp.
“When you’re able to have eight or nine guys who can start, you have to find a way to get them reps, show them love, appreciation and respect,” Sanders said. “These guys ain’t no joke, man; they are violent.”
During the week, national media outlets have also questioned the physical size of Colorado’s roster. That narrative Sanders was quick to shut down.
“They’re talking about the size of our team, which is hilarious,” Sanders said. “Sixteen linemen average 6-foot-5, 310 (pounds), six tight ends average 6-foot-5, 255; interior defensive lineman average is 6-foot-3, 295, defensive end at 6-foot-3, 245 and cornerbacks average 6-foot-1, 185. I don’t think that’s small by any means.”
The extra talk will only serve as motivation for Sanders’ Buffs as they dig in for three more weeks of preparation ahead of their first opponent.
Although players like Danny Scudero and Kam Perry have been shaken up early, Sanders also reiterated he is not concerned about any major injuries on the team as of Aug. 6. The expectation is to have both ready for Georgia Tech.
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