Shannon Sharpe on Deion Sanders' media snub: "For the first time, he's not the best"

The Colorado Buffaloes coach is trying to regroup after a whirlwind over the past two weeks

FOX Sports/ Club Shay Shay

Deion Sanders recently stirred up controversy after a tense exchange with a media member during an Aug. 9 news conference. The Hall-of-Famer refused to engage with CBS Sports reporter Eric Christensen, sparking widespread discussion in the sports world.

During the event, Sanders abruptly shut down Christensen's question, saying, "I’m not doing nothing with CBS. Next question. It ain’t got nothing to do with you." He then elaborated, making it clear that his issue wasn't with the reporter personally but with CBS Sports as an organization. Sanders added, "They know what they did," and described their actions as "foul."

Many speculated that Sanders' frustration stemmed from a recent CBS Sports article that ranked him as the second-worst coach in the Big 12 Conference. The article criticized his debut season with the Colorado Buffaloes, pointing to a lackluster finish after a promising start and highlighting concerns about the team's foundation, particularly the offensive line. Sanders' ranking only edged out Arizona State's Kenny Dillingham, making him a target for critics.

Shannon Sharpe recently weighed in on the situation. On his show "Nightcap," the fellow Hall-of-Famer suggested that Sanders might be reacting to his unfamiliarity with not being considered the best. "Since he's been playing sports, he's always been the best, Sharpe said. "Always been told he was the best. For the first time, he's not the best."

While Sharpe's take drew attention, some fans believed the issue went deeper. Online commentators speculated that Sanders' animosity toward CBS might stem from other grievances, such as a report about his son Shilo Sanders filing for bankruptcy or even a failed business deal between Sanders and CBS. On3’s Phillip Dukes added weight to the latter theory, hinting that Sanders felt betrayed by a partnership that didn’t come to fruition, leading to a loss of trust.

Throughout this controversy, Sanders has remained outspoken, questioning the motivations of certain reporters and defending his actions. His reaction to the situation reveals the complexities of navigating public scrutiny, especially as a high-profile figure transitioning from a successful playing career to coaching.

As Sanders continues to lead the Colorado Buffaloes, his relationship with the media and his handling of criticism will undoubtedly remain under the microscope. The Buffs open the 2024 football season in two weeks with North Dakota State at Folsom Field on Thursday, August 29.