Deion Sanders Sends Message as Second-Biggest Mover in CBS Sports Coaches Poll

Two years ago, Deion Sanders came to Colorado looking for an opportunity to coach at a Power Five level. While many were skeptical about his jump from Jackson State, he has instituted nothing but success in Boulder.  

CBS Sports recently ranked the 68 Power coaches in the country with Coach Prime being one of the biggest movers. He didn't crack the Top 25, but came in at No. 33, which was up 28 spots from No. 61 last year.  

"This jump shouldn't come as a surprise," CBS Sports' Tom Fornelli wrote. "While the on-field results didn't match the off-field hype in 2023, Sanders' Colorado team improved to 9-4 and was in the hunt for a conference title until the end of the season. Oh, and Travis Hunter won the Heisman. Now, we sit back and see how things will go with Hunter and Shedeur Sanders off to the NFL. I won't be surprised by any outcome, honestly. The team could crater, or it could win the Big 12."

The 'Prime Effect' was still strong in 2024 with the Buffaloes pulling out a 9-4 record and lost out on a potential Big 12 championship bid due to a tiebreaker. However, there are many bright spots with the program. Sanders has the most NFL experience on his coaching staff, including fellow Hall-of-Famers Warren Sapp and Marshall Faulk.  

This year's version of the Buffs comes without two top playmakers in Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter. But don't count them out just yet. Coach Prime has shown his strength in player development and is ready to bring the next wave into a new era.