PHILADELPHIA, PA – SEPTEMBER 2, 2023 – In the world of college football, legends are born on the field, but it’s often the sidelines where the true magic happens. And on a historic day, under the watchful eye of Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, the Colorado Buffaloes scripted a remarkable chapter in their storied history. A chapter that showcased the undeniable importance of coaching in the sport.

I, like many football enthusiasts, tuned in with bated breath to witness Deion Sanders make his coaching debut at the Power 4 level with the Colorado Buffaloes. This was a momentous occasion, as Sanders ventured into unfamiliar territory with 90 new players under his guidance. The odds were stacked against them as they faced the powerhouse TCU program, a team that had been a National Championship runner-up just last year. The bookmakers had the Buffaloes pegged as 20.5-point underdogs on TCU’s home turf. But as it turns out, they forgot to relay that message to the young stars of Colorado.

Shedeur Sanders, the quarterback with legendary DNA, led the charge with a dazzling display of precision and poise. Completing 38 out of 47 pass attempts for a jaw-dropping 510 yards, four touchdowns, and zero interceptions, Shedeur showed the world that he was a chip off the old block. His connection with a formidable receiving corps consisting of Travis Hunter, Dylan Edwards, Jimmy Horn Jr., and Xavier Weaver was nothing short of spectacular, with each of them amassing over 100 receiving yards in the game. It was a symphony of football artistry, orchestrated by a coach who knew how to unlock the potential of his players.

Deion Sanders’ decision to leave historically black Jackson State University and the SWAC conference to lead Colorado in the Big 12 was met with a wave of skepticism and criticism. Mainstream commentators questioned whether Coach Prime was ready for the big leagues. Many Black fans of HBCU football felt abandoned. Clearly, Coach Prime is ready. Moreover, his move to Colorado should open the doors of opportunity to other Black coaches seeking an opportunity at the Power 5 level. His work was done on the chitlin’ circuit. He’s ready for football at the highest level.

In his very first game as the Colorado Head Coach, he marched his troops into enemy territory and dismantled the 17th-ranked TCU Horned Frogs. It was a masterclass in coaching, a testament to the meticulous preparation and unwavering belief that Coach Prime instilled in his players.

Some may call it an upset, but to do so would be an injustice to the Buffaloes. They didn’t merely upset TCU; they outperformed them. They showcased their talent, their discipline, and their unwavering belief in the system that Deion Sanders had meticulously crafted. Coach Prime didn’t just change the game; he proved that with the right guidance, belief, and preparation, any team can conquer giants.

As I watched every single play unfold, I couldn’t help but be reminded of Vince Young and Texas slaying mighty USC in the 2006 Rose Bowl. It was a moment etched in history, not just because of the players on the field but because of the coach who molded them into champions. Deion Sanders has announced his arrival in the world of college football coaching, and his message is loud and clear: it’s not just about the players; it’s about the coach who can lead them to victory. Colorado’s triumph over TCU was a testament to the power of coaching, and we can only anticipate more greatness from Coach Prime and his Buffaloes in the games to come.

The game sparked feelings and emotions I haven’t felt since I watched John Thompson, John Chaney and Nolan RIchardson at coach at Georgetown, Temple and Arkansas respectively. I need a Colorado hoodie… ASAP!