Sanders claims full blame for Colorado's five-game slide

Deion Sanders accepted full responsibility for Colorado’s five-game losing streak on Tuesday. The head coach addressed the media four days before the Buffaloes host Kansas State. He placed the burden of the recent slide squarely on his own shoulders. Sanders stated that his coordinators are doing wonderful work. He asked reporters to direct any criticism toward him alone.

The coach pointed to the second-half collapse in Saturday’s 57-24 defeat at Oklahoma State. Colorado led 24-23 at the halftime whistle. The momentum shifted on the first play of the third quarter when Isaac Wilson fumbled the ball. Sanders described that turnover as a tremendous blow to the team. He noted the staff had made adjustments at the break, but the unit reacted with a familiar pattern of frustration.

The head coach said he wants the team to respond like it did after the Cowboys scored on their third play from scrimmage. He noted that the players immediately moved back down the field to attack. Sanders said the squad needs that mentality in greater numbers. He stated that the failure to maintain that focus is his responsibility. He met with multiple players on Sunday and Monday to address the issues.

Sanders said some defensive backs performed well during the loss. However, he stated that the corners must step up and play better. He acknowledged that the staff has to prepare the players more effectively. The coach compared the current losing streak to the final six games of 2023 and the final five games of the previous season. He said the emotional toll remains the same regardless of the year.

Sanders said he believes many of his players are capable of winning. He stated that the group has not yet organized itself to meet the expected standard. He noted that each season brings new staff members and different players. He said he does not carry the approach from one year into the next. The coach mentioned that the losing hurts tremendously, but he does not compare it to the medical challenges he has faced in life.

Colorado has committed 66 penalties through seven games. That total is the highest in the Big 12. Sanders said that is the one area where the team has shown consistency. He stated that special teams have become more reliable in recent weeks. However, the Buffaloes have yet to combine offense, defense, and special teams into a single cohesive effort during a game.

The head coach addressed the running back usage. He said Damian Henderson II has received carries while the staff seeks a rhythm. Sanders promised that Richard Young will see a lot more action this week. Young has not carried the ball since the Texas Tech game on October 3. Sanders confirmed that Micah Welch will not play Saturday due to an injury. He added that Julian Lewis must decide if he wants another chance at quarterback.

Sanders said he sees players fighting and loving the game every day. He stated that he thrives in these specific types of moments. The Buffaloes (2-5, 0-4 Big 12) host Kansas State at noon Saturday on TNT.