Deion Sanders doesn't read too much into analytics for success

Coach Prime uses common sense approach and trusts his playmakers

Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

In his second season with Colorado, Deion Sanders has redefined expectations, leading the Buffaloes to a 5-2 record and securing an impressive 34-7 win over Arizona. Known for his unconventional approach, Sanders emphasizes his players’ potential and commitment, saying, "We actually feel like we're better than what we are." His mindset reflects his vision that the Buffaloes’ journey is just beginning, with Colorado currently leading the Big 12 in sacks and boasting four receivers who have each recorded a 100-yard game.

When Sanders arrived in Boulder, he didn’t shy away from making big moves and bold statements, rebuilding the roster through the transfer portal and shedding players he didn’t believe fit his program’s high expectations. This strategy earned him both admiration and criticism, as some saw it as brash and overly ambitious for a team that finished last season at 4-8. Yet, Sanders’ confidence in his team and his high standards have brought national attention, filling stadiums and making Colorado games a must-see televised event.

One of the standout aspects of Sanders' coaching style is his intuitive approach to in-game decisions, especially regarding analytics. While many coaches now rely heavily on data to make fourth-down calls, Sanders trusts his instincts and deep knowledge of his players' capabilities. When asked about analytics, Sanders humorously dismissed the concept, saying, "Who is the guy named analytics? I don’t know what he looks like. You got to know your team." He made it clear that his decisions are based on his "feel" for the game rather than abstract numbers, a philosophy reflected in Colorado’s 35.7% fourth-down conversion rate this season.

This approach was evident in the game against Arizona, where Colorado attempted two fourth-down plays, successfully converting a 4th & 10 in Arizona territory. Sanders’ trust in his players, particularly quarterback Shedeur Sanders and his offensive skill set, guides these crucial decisions. He believes that sometimes a punt doesn’t offer enough value and chooses instead to capitalize on his offense's strengths. However, if he senses a lack of momentum or confidence in a particular play, he's quick to pivot, prioritizing situational awareness over rigid adherence to analytics.

Sanders’ decision-making will be tested as Colorado hosts Cincinnati in a Big 12 matchup with significant playoff implications. The Buffaloes’ success is not only crucial for their championship hopes but also embodies the bold vision Sanders brought to Boulder. With Folsom Field set to sell out once again, fans are ready for another high-stakes game under the lights, broadcast nationally on ESPN.