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The hype train surrounding Deion Sanders and the Colorado Buffaloes leading up to the 2023 college football season has been nothing short of out of control.
But the reality figured to be far, far different once the season actually began.
The Buffs won just one game in 2022, and despite a number of transfers into the program, sports books set Colorado’s over/under for victories at just 3.5.
And many fans took the under.
“I think we’re going to finally see, for all the hoopla and all the hype going into the offseason with Deion Sanders and Colorado, it does not mask the fact that they don’t have the players on that roster,” ESPN’s Tom Luginbill said of the Buffs. “You thought UMASS was the worst roster in college football? It may be Colorado’s.”
Though Sanders had a solid retort, asking if Luginbill had “been here to see any of the talent live?”
Yes, Travis Hunter figured to be a star. And yes, the Buffaloes figure to have far, far more talent at the skill positions. But depth was a legitimate concern, as was Colorado’s ability to hold up on both the offensive and defensive lines.
Those questions would immediately be put to the test, as well, as the Buffaloes traveled to 2022 College Football Playoff runner-up TCU to begin the season.
The Horned Frogs, who themselves are forced to replace a ton of talent from 2022, were listed as 21-point favorites heading into the contest.
But the early returns looked good for Sanders and Colorado.
The Buffaloes scored first when Shedeur Sanders hit freshman running back Dylan Edwards for a 4-yard score. The Horned Frogs hit back. But Colorado went into the half up 17-14 after a Jace Feely field goal.
Colorado looked better than almost anybody expected.
And fans were immediately sold on Sanders’ program.
Coach Prime bringing Colorado the Pac 12 title on his way out the door to the Big 12. pic.twitter.com/hrst06qyPy
— NFL Fashion Advice (@fashion_nfl) September 2, 2023
https://twitter.com/deadlymae/status/1698030717098238378?s=20
Yeah I’m gonna say the over on Colorado’s season win total might be the lock of the century https://t.co/1fxAymg8Nh
— Kev (@KjWit1) September 2, 2023
If you aren’t watching Colorado 🦬 at TCU 🐸 you are missing out! 17-14 at the half #GoBuffs pic.twitter.com/YOppclovJ2
— Lilah 💜💛🐅🧡🖤 (@3_elle_tiger) September 2, 2023
Feels like a good time to remind everyone that CU entered this game as 20.5 point underdogs.
After Jace Feely drills a 49-yarder, the Buffs lead by 3 at halftime.
17 – 14 Colorado.
What a first half of the Prime Era.
— Romi Bean (@Romi_Bean) September 2, 2023
Even Dez Bryant got in on the fun.
PRIME GOT COLORADO LOOKING GOOD
— Dez Bryant (@DezBryant) September 2, 2023
As did Snoop Dogg.
Snoop Dogg lit watching Colorado Vs TCU 😂😂😂 pic.twitter.com/ufoVEJh8X5
— Shannonnn sharpes Burner (PARODY Account) (@shannonsharpeee) September 2, 2023
Look out, Pac-12, Colorado and Deion Sanders look like they’re for real.