After Colorado’s Arizona State Loss, Deion Sanders Answers Job Security Question as Team Regroups
Loss revives job questions
Colorado arrived in Tempe hoping to begin a new winning streak, but Arizona State’s 20-10 victory left the Buffaloes with another inconsistent performance. The result dropped Colorado to 3-6 overall and put the team one loss from being officially out of bowl contention.
The loss also renewed concerns about Sanders’ job security. Asked about his position, Sanders said he was not coaching for himself and was focused on helping players graduate and improve their lives and families.
Sanders faults team’s execution
Sanders said he was hurt because he believed the team and its supporters deserved better. He said Colorado should win and play at its best, adding that he was not seeing that consistently.
He praised Arizona State coach Kenny Dillingham and his staff, and said freshman quarterback Jake Fette helped keep Colorado off balance. Sanders said the Sun Devils made plays while Colorado did not, and described the Buffaloes’ poor start as coming too late to overcome.
Urgency before Friday’s game
Sanders said he saw no quitting or lethargy from Colorado’s players, coaches or support staff, but said the team had to improve. He told the team not to dwell on the defeat because it plays Friday.
He said Colorado needed to score more and do a better job of stopping opponents, taking responsibility for that work. Sanders also said the team was inconsistent across several areas and needed to make the most of its chances.
Quarterback and leadership concerns
Sanders said quarterback Wilson’s 20-of-31 performance for 248 yards was not enough to offset four sacks and an interception. He said Colorado had opportunities to make plays but needed to convert them.
Sanders rejected doubts about the team’s leadership, saying players had fought hard and set an example. He said the team was not holding a pity party, while adding that improvement had to start with him.
Key points
- Colorado lost 20-10 to Arizona State on Nov. 7 and fell to 3-6 overall.
- The Buffaloes are one loss away from official elimination from bowl contention.
- Sanders said he was not worried about his job and took responsibility for the team’s shortcomings.
- Colorado plays Friday, giving the team little time to dwell on the defeat.