Deion Sanders' remarks about legacy at Colorado raises questions

Coach Prime says he doesn't care about what's he building, but his mark is evident

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The new season of Coach Prime, titled "Legacy is Earned," premieres in just a week, reigniting discussions about Coach Deion Sanders' impact on college football, particularly after the Colorado Buffaloes' disappointing loss to BYU in the Alamo Bowl. This defeat, unexpected by many who believed Colorado's talent—especially the speed of their receivers and the poise of quarterback Shedeur Sanders—would secure their tenth win of the season, has sparked debate. Critics argue that analysts are being overly harsh, failing to recognize the significance of what the Buffaloes achieved this season.

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For Coach Prime, this loss marks the second time in three bowl appearances that his team has fallen short, raising questions about preparation and the competition faced throughout the season. However, the postgame press conference revealed more than just disappointment. Coach Prime, Shedeur, and safety Cam’Ron Silman-Craig projected an understanding that they had missed a key opportunity to solidify their legacy.

Coach Sanders' demeanor during that press conference reflected not only frustration but also a sense of paternal guidance. His expressions mirrored those of a father preparing his child to step into the world—full of hope, hard lessons, and inevitable growth. The Sanders family’s legacy is deeply intertwined with sports, a tradition Coach Prime has cultivated through his Hall of Fame careers in both MLB and the NFL. His leadership extends to his sons, Shedeur and Shilo Sanders, who have become prominent figures in college football under their father's watchful eye.

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The ritual of Coach Prime and Shedeur’s pregame walk, dating back to Shedeur’s days at Trinity Christian High School, is emblematic of this legacy. It’s a tradition that reflects the bond between father and son, akin to countless fathers who coach their children. This walk has become a symbol of the Sanders’ shared journey in sports—a journey that began in little league and has now reached the national stage at the University of Colorado.

During the press conference, a reporter inquired about the meaning of legacy, not just for Colorado but for college football as a whole. Coach Prime's response was characteristically grounded. “We don’t think about legacy like that,” he said. “We’re just trying to develop these young men, win games, and make sure they’re consistent in the community, with their families, and in school. Legacy doesn’t cross our minds one bit.” His answer reflects a focus on the present—on shaping young athletes into responsible individuals—rather than dwelling on long-term accolades.

Yet, Coach Prime’s humility belies the undeniable fact that he has already built a legacy. His sons, Shilo and Shedeur, are considered legacy players. This tradition is deeply rooted in college football, where familial connections shape programs across the country. The question, then, is not whether legacy exists, but how it is cultivated and passed down.

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The upcoming series, "Legacy is Earned," promises to explore these themes, delving into the Sanders family’s journey and addressing critics who argue that Shedeur Sanders, much like Bronny James, benefits from his last name. Yet, anyone who has watched Shedeur play knows he is more than capable—his talent as a quarterback speaks for itself.

As the premiere approaches, fans eagerly anticipate how Coach Prime will address these narratives. Will the series focus on overcoming adversity, or will it highlight the resilience required to build a lasting legacy? One thing is certain—Coach Prime’s story, and the Sanders family’s influence on the game, is far from over.