Deion Sanders reacts to Dominiq Ponder's passing

Colorado backup quarterback Dominiq Ponder died on Sunday morning in a single-car crash, according to the Colorado State Patrol, via Adam Rittenberg of ESPN.

The 23-year-old reportedly lost control of his 2023 Tesla Model 3 at around 3 a.m. Preliminary investigation revealed that "speed was a factor," resulting in a loss of control on a curve and crossing into the eastbound lane.

His car hit a guardrail and an electrical line pole before catching fire. Ponder was pronounced dead at the scene. 

Colorado head coach and NFL legend Deion Sanders took to social media to express his condolences and lament this heartbreaking incident. 

Coach Deion Sanders sends emotional message after Dominiq Ponder's passing

"God please comfort the Ponder family, friends & Loved ones. Dom was one of my favorites! He was Loved, Respected & a Born Leader. Let’s pray for all that knew him & had the opportunity to be in his presence. Lord you’re receiving a good 1. Comfort us Lord Comfort us," Sanders wrote on X. 

Ponder starred at Carol City and Naples high schools and began his collegiate career at Bethune-Cookman.

He was a third-year sophomore. He made a couple of appearances last season, logging two carries and one incomplete pass attempt after not getting on the field in his first year with the program.

He was the Buffaloes' fourth-string quarterback last season. 

The program will begin spring practice on Monday, with Deion Sanders set to kick off his fourth campaign in charge of the team.