ESPN snubs Deion Sanders in latest coach rankings
Deion Sanders didn't just bring flash to Boulder—he brought wins, relevance, and a belief that Colorado football could matter again. But apparently, that still isn't enough to earn him national respect.
In ESPN's recently released 2025 college football head coach rankings, Sanders was left on the outside looking in. Voted on by a panel of 12 analysts, the list featured the usual powerhouse names—Kirby Smart, Ryan Day, and Dabo Swinney—but barely acknowledged the man who's flipped Colorado's narrative on its head. Coach Prime received only three total votes, tying him for 18th overall, well outside the top 10.
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It's a puzzling omission considering what Sanders has accomplished in just two seasons. Before his arrival, the Buffaloes were mired in a decade-long funk—posting a 41-81 record from 2012 to 2022 and failing to win a single bowl game. Enter Sanders, and the energy shifted overnight. After a 4-8 debut in 2023, he followed up with a 9-4 season in 2024, giving Buffs fans a reason to believe for the first time in years.
More than just wins, Sanders has turned Colorado into a recruiting powerhouse. The 2025 class ranks No. 2 in the Big 12 and No. 35 nationally, with major names like four-star quarterback Julian Lewis, , and elite EDGE rusher London Merritt already on campus. He's not just recruiting talent—he's developing it, too. The 2025 NFL Draft featured four Buffaloes, including Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter, who went No. 2 overall, tying the program's highest draft selection.
So why the low ranking?
Some critics argue Sanders hasn't coached long enough to be considered elite. Others question the sustainability of his model. But with momentum building and more talent on the way, it's clear that if Sanders keeps winning, ESPN's voters won't be able to ignore him for much longer.
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Buff Nation isn't asking for charity. Just recognition. And with another big year in 2025, Coach Prime might just force the conversation.
Related: Colorado targeting former USC five-star linebacker for '26
Related: Five-star recruit sends clear message to Deion Sanders after Colorado visit
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