Deion Sanders and the Colorado Buffaloes are riding high after a solid 2024 season, wrapping up with an impressive record of eight wins and three losses. As they prepare for their regular-season finale at home against Oklahoma State on November 29, the excitement surrounding the program is palpable. But it’s not just the on-field success that has fans buzzing; the Buffaloes have recently secured a significant commitment that could bolster their future.
The news of a 4-star offensive tackle joining the team has sent ripples of enthusiasm through the Colorado fanbase. The player in question is the towering 6-foot-6, 290-pound Carde Smith. This promising prospect had initially committed to the USC Trojans, where he was expected to play a pivotal role. However, after decommitting from USC, he chose to join the Buffaloes, a decision that has many excited about the team’s offensive line prospects for the coming seasons.
Smith’s journey to Colorado began with a visit on October 25. Just over two weeks later, rumors started swirling that he would flip his commitment after initially pledging to USC on August 5. The anticipation culminated on November 20 when the news broke, and on Thanksgiving, Smith made his official announcement through a social media post.
So, what influenced Smith’s decision to join the Buffaloes? In his own words, he explained, “I went up there for the Baylor game and the Cincinnati game. Really just sitting down and talking with [offensive line] Coach Phil [Loadholt] and Coach Prime and the other coaches, and seeing that I have a chance to come and play as a freshman—that’s the main thing that really set it off.” The opportunity to make an immediate impact has become a significant draw for many recruits, and Smith is no exception.
Smith impressed by Colorado
During a recent appearance on the Nightcap Show, Smith shared his thoughts on Colorado’s environment, stating, “Really just the environment around Colorado—it just feels like family more. Coach Phil is a real dude. Sitting down with him, he told me the ins and outs of Colorado. Seeing that he actually played at that position and was really the best in his time, I really couldn’t turn that down. Plus, the opportunity to play early.”
It’s clear that the family atmosphere and the chance to learn from experienced coaches played a significant role in his decision. Smith’s admiration for Coach Loadholt, who has a successful background in the position, adds another layer of excitement for fans looking forward to the future of the offensive line.
Smith’s aspirations don’t stop with just joining the team; he’s eager to prove himself. “I just want my shot. And when I get it, they are going to feel me. I feel like I can go in there, and I feel like I can compete with anybody,” he expressed passionately. Such confidence is vital for a player stepping into a competitive college football environment.
The Buffaloes are not just gaining a talented player; they are adding a fierce competitor who is ready to make waves. With Smith’s commitment, the Colorado offensive line is set to receive a boost that could be crucial for their strategy in the upcoming seasons. The combination of his size, skill, and determination makes him a valuable asset for the team.
As the Buffaloes gear up for their final game of the season, the buzz around Smith’s commitment adds an extra layer of excitement. Fans are eager to see how the team will perform and how new recruits will mesh with the existing roster. With Sanders at the helm, the future looks bright for Colorado football.
Looking ahead, the Buffaloes will need to build on their successes and continue attracting top talent like Smith. The landscape of college football is ever-changing, and programs that can adapt and secure commitments from high-caliber players will have a significant advantage.
In the world of college football, every decision counts, and Smith’s choice to join Colorado could be a game-changer. As fans, we can only imagine the thrilling moments that lie ahead for the Buffaloes. With a strong foundation and the right recruits, the team is poised to make a significant impact in the seasons to come.
The excitement surrounding Deion Sanders and the Colorado Buffaloes is palpable, and with the addition of Carde Smith, fans have even more reason to be optimistic. The combination of a solid season, a promising recruit, and a passionate coaching staff sets the stage for a bright future in Boulder. Let’s keep an eye on how this story unfolds as the Buffaloes continue to build their legacy in college football.
