Deion Sanders Highlights Influence He Claims He Won’t Utilize: ‘I Have a Vast Platform’
The Colorado coach spoke on various subjects before the upcoming game against Colorado State, including news about his son Shilo.
On Tuesday, Colorado football coach Deion Sanders needed to share his thoughts during a press conference in Boulder.
He took a moment to respond to rumors circulating on social media that he had instructed the Colorado band to stop playing the school fight song after touchdowns scored by his quarterback son Shedeur, opting instead for Shedeur’s rap song “Perfect Timing.”
“That’s ridiculous,” Deion Sanders stated. “You all know that. When you heard that, you knew it was false.”
He elaborated on the issue of online information today—how much of it lacks verification or backing from skilled and ethical journalists. There was also a case where online commentators misinterpreted Shedeur’s actions following his team’s loss to Nebraska last week, with a score of 28-10.
Some people criticized Shedeur for leaving the field to head to the locker room before the game ended, incorrectly labeling him as selfish. This allegation was unfounded, as Shedeur left to receive treatment for an injury along with another teammate.
Deion Sanders Showcases Influence He Claims He Will Refrain From Using
Deion Sanders mentioned this in his remarks ahead of the Buffaloes (1-1) facing off against rival Colorado State (1-1) on Saturday at 7:30 p.m. ET on CBS.
“We need to start being accountable for this,” Sanders emphasized. “I recognize this is a free world, and not everyone is a journalist. Not everyone is an analyst. Many haven’t invested as much effort into their work as you all have. I appreciate those of you who take your roles seriously and seek out the truth before endorsing false narratives. However, be aware that such misinformation can affect many people. I’ve faced criticism throughout my life, so I can handle it, but those involved—band members, Buffaloes fans, and alumni—sometimes feel lost in the noise, and often we believe the initial story we hear, which we should avoid.
“I challenge you to handle your reporting with more responsibility. And I never intended for it to be personal; therefore, when it becomes so, it’s worth considering.”
Following this, Sanders highlighted his considerable influence but affirmed his intent not to misuse it.
“You must realize I have a vast platform,” Deion Sanders highlighted. “I could easily make it personal if I wanted to, but I choose not to because that would be wrong. Some actions in life simply aren’t right, and I’m not willing to cross that line. But think about this—just the influence of my family alone is significant. If we truly wanted to take that route, we could. But we would never choose that path; that’s not how we were raised.”
Shilo Sanders Out for 2-3 Weeks
Deion Sanders and the Buffaloes might be missing several key players when they face Colorado State. He announced Tuesday that his son Shilo would be sidelined for two to three weeks following recent forearm surgery. Shilo, a safety and last season’s leading tackler for Colorado, suffered the injury during the first quarter of last week’s loss to Nebraska.
Additionally, Deion Sanders noted that running back Dallan Hayden, the team’s top rusher with 52 yards on 14 attempts, would be out due to an undisclosed injury after transferring from Ohio State.
Starting defensive lineman Chidozie Nwanko, who transferred from Houston, is also doubtful for the game, according to Sanders.
‘I’ve Been Crucified for a Long Time’
This match marks the second consecutive rivalry game on the road for Colorado, who faced issues with their running game and quarterback protection last week—problems that had plagued them throughout last season when they finished with a record of 4-8.
“The positive aspect is you must rise above the challenges,” Sanders commented. “Hopefully, you learn from the previous week’s experiences and elevate your game.”
After the loss to Nebraska, the scrutiny and pressure have increased.
“In defeat, you will face criticism; you’ll be judged and persecuted,” Sanders remarked. “I’m alright with it. I’ve dealt with that criticism for a long time, and I’m still here.”
Deion Sanders Comments on Jay Norvell’s Wife
The previous year’s matchup against Colorado State garnered significant pre-game hype after Colorado State’s head coach Jay Norvell made remarks criticizing Sanders for wearing hats and sunglasses indoors. However, things have been quieter this week. On Tuesday, Sanders was asked about Norvell and his wife Kim, who had made negative comments about Shedeur on social media in December, amidst controversy revisited in the “Coach Prime” documentary series.
Sanders shared that he met Kim Norvell at an offseason gathering.
“I’m not seeking an apology,” Sanders responded when asked if he was. “I recently met her, and she was very pleasant.”
He added that “I don’t base my opinions of people on their emotional statements.”
“I can’t do that; it’s not in my nature,” he expressed. “I just met his wife, and she was delightful.”
Last year, Colorado defeated Colorado State in Boulder with a score of 43-35.
For more updates, follow reporter Brent Schrotenboer on Twitter @Schrotenboer.