`I’m gonna try my best to stay composed’

BOULDER, Colo. – Colorado football coach Deion Sanders was left stunned by the outcome of Friday night’s game against Stanford. The Buffaloes suffered a heartbreaking loss in double overtime, falling 46-43. However, it was the manner in which they lost that shocked Sanders the most. After building a commanding 29-0 lead at halftime, they completely collapsed, allowing Stanford to score on every possession in the second half. The sold-out crowd at Folsom Field (53,154) watched in disbelief as Stanford mounted a remarkable comeback.

Sanders expressed his disappointment after the game, thanking the fans for their patience and acknowledging how tough it was for him personally. “This is tough for me, and I’m trying my best, and I thank you all for your patience. And I thank you all for your heart because this is really tough for me,” he said.

Deion Sanders’ Reflections

Sanders admitted that he was upset and disturbed by the loss, but he also sensed it coming. He had a feeling his team became complacent after scoring touchdowns on their first four possessions of the game. He was right.

The Buffaloes (4-3) now face a crucial bye week with five games remaining in the regular season. They need two more wins to secure a spot in a postseason bowl game, but that task seems daunting after their promising 3-0 start.

“I’m gonna try my best to stay composed and do the best of my ability to handle this press conference because you deserve my best,” Sanders told reporters. “We started out the game wonderfully and finally put it together in the first half like I desired.”

Sanders then posed a question to the room, asking if the score was indeed 29-0 at one point.

Deion Sanders Discusses Players’ Commitment

Sanders pointed out that the team’s downfall was not solely due to one player but rather a lack of commitment and passion from the entire team. He emphasized the importance of loving the game unconditionally and giving it everything. Sanders challenged his players to match his own level of dedication, consistency, and love for the game.

Reflecting on the game, Sanders acknowledged the mistakes made by his team, including an interception by his son, Shedeur Sanders, which ended Colorado’s second overtime drive. Ultimately, this led to Stanford’s victory.

While taking responsibility for the loss, Sanders also identified a larger issue of players not performing at their best when it matters the most. He stressed the need for players to step up and make crucial plays in critical situations.

The Great Catch and Comeback

One of the pivotal moments in the game came during the first overtime when Stanford’s Elic Ayomanor made a remarkable catch, tying the game at 43-43. Despite Colorado’s earlier lead, they couldn’t maintain their momentum and succumbed to Stanford’s resilient comeback.

“We didn’t play well, not just Travis,” Sanders commented, referring to star receiver-cornerback Travis Hunter. “I think it all started when we gave up the 97-yard touchdown.”

Stanford’s quarterback, Ashton Daniels, delivered an outstanding performance, throwing for 396 yards and four touchdowns. Additionally, the Buffs’ frequent penalties and substitution issues further hindered their chances of securing a victory.

As the team moves forward, Sanders called for players to embrace the moment and demonstrate their passion for the game. He encouraged them to give their utmost dedication and match his own energy and love for football.

Follow reporter Brent Schrotenboer @Schrotenboer. Email: [email protected]

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Deion Sanders’ Colorado team suffers shocking loss to Stanford in 2OT