As the speculation intensifies, the rumors linking Deion Sanders of the Colorado Buffaloes to the Dallas Cowboys are becoming hard to ignore. Coach Prime has shown a willingness to make bold moves in the past, and with the NFL season heating up, the timing seems right. However, if Sanders does decide to take his talents to the professional level, the Buffaloes are unlikely to fold. Instead, they will need to act quickly to find a suitable replacement.
Potential successors for Deion Sanders at Colorado
The question on everyone’s mind is: who could fill the shoes of Coach Prime? Colorado has a variety of options to consider, each bringing their unique strengths to the table. Here are five candidates that could take the helm if Sanders makes the leap to the NFL.
1. Jamey Chadwell, Liberty coach
First on the list is Jamey Chadwell, the head coach at Liberty. Known for his innovative offensive strategies, Chadwell has made waves in college football by turning Coastal Carolina and Liberty into competitive programs. With a remarkable record of 20-3 at Liberty, he has proven his ability to lead and inspire. His exciting style of play could keep fans engaged and elevate Colorado’s program to new heights. While he’s only in his second year at Liberty, the allure of a power conference could be too tempting for him to resist.
2. Dan Mullen
Next up is Dan Mullen, a name synonymous with high-octane offense. Mullen has a successful track record, having coached Mississippi State and Florida to a 103-61 record, including multiple 10-win seasons. Although he currently enjoys a role as an analyst for ESPN, his offensive acumen is undeniable. At just 52 years old, Mullen still has plenty of coaching left in him, and Colorado could benefit immensely from his expertise.
3. Barry Odom, UNLV coach
Barry Odom, the head coach at UNLV, is another intriguing option. With a strong defensive background and a successful tenure at Missouri, Odom has shown he can build competitive teams. Since taking over at UNLV, he has the Running Rebels in contention for the Mountain West Conference title. At 47 years old, Odom is still young enough to bring fresh energy to Colorado while having the experience necessary to lead a program.
4. Robert Livingston, Colorado defensive coordinator
If Colorado opts for continuity, they might consider promoting from within. Robert Livingston, the current defensive coordinator, has been instrumental in the Buffaloes’ defensive success. At just 38 years old, he represents a younger option who could maintain the momentum built during Sanders’ tenure. However, there’s a chance that Sanders may want to take Livingston with him if he departs, which could complicate matters.
5. Pat Shurmur, Colorado offensive coordinator
Lastly, there’s Pat Shurmur, the offensive coordinator for the Buffaloes. With a wealth of experience in the NFL, Shurmur has a deep understanding of offensive strategies. Keeping him on board could ensure that Colorado retains some of the essential elements that made the Sanders era successful. However, like Livingston, Shurmur could also be a target for Sanders if he leaves, and at 59 years old, the question remains whether he would be the long-term solution.
As the Buffaloes navigate this potential transition, they must consider what direction they want to take the program. Will they prioritize continuity and promote from within, or will they look for a fresh face to lead them into a new era?
The impact of Deion Sanders on Colorado football
Since arriving at Colorado, Deion Sanders has transformed the program, bringing excitement and a renewed sense of purpose. His ability to recruit top talent and elevate the team’s performance has not gone unnoticed. The Buffaloes have become a formidable force in college football, and losing Sanders would undoubtedly leave a significant void.
However, the foundation he has built could serve as a launching pad for his successor. The new coach will need to embrace the culture Sanders has established while also putting their spin on the program. This delicate balance will be crucial for maintaining the momentum that has been generated during Sanders’ tenure.
What’s next for Colorado football?
As the rumors swirl, Colorado must prepare for all possibilities. The university’s administration will need to act swiftly to ensure they find the right candidate to lead the program forward. The right hire could mean the difference between continued success and a return to mediocrity.
Which coaches do you think would be the best fit for Colorado if Coach Prime moves on? The landscape of college football is always changing, and the Buffaloes will need to adapt to stay competitive. Share your thoughts in the comments below!
