The Colorado Buffaloes have been making waves in college football this season, and a significant part of their success can be attributed to the remarkable performance of quarterback Shedeur Sanders. With an impressive completion rate of 72.9%, Sanders has thrown for 2,882 yards, racking up 24 touchdowns against just six interceptions. Additionally, he’s showcased his versatility by rushing for four touchdowns, proving to be a dual-threat quarterback that has kept defenses on their toes.
Concerns About Shedeur Sanders’ NFL Potential
As the 2025 NFL Draft draws closer, Sanders is generating considerable interest from various NFL teams. However, not everyone is convinced of his readiness for the next level. Draft analyst Dane Brugler recently shared his insights on the “Football 301 Podcast,” expressing skepticism about Sanders’ physical attributes. He stated, “I’m not impressed by the physical traits. His arm is B-level. I think in terms of quarterbacking style, he reminds me of Jordan Love without the high-end physical traits.” Brugler also pointed out that Sanders has faced challenges against top defenses, noting that in the two games against Kansas State and Nebraska—both losses—Sanders struggled to perform at his best.
Analyzing Sanders’ Decision-Making
Brugler’s analysis didn’t stop there. He highlighted the struggles of the Colorado offensive line, which has allowed 28 sacks this season. However, he emphasized that many of those sacks can be attributed to Sanders’ decision-making in the pocket. “A lot of that is working the pocket and understanding where the rush is coming from,” Brugler explained. While he acknowledged that Sanders is a good athlete, he cautioned that his tendency to take unnecessary sacks could pose a significant challenge at the NFL level. “It’s only going to get tougher against the NFL’s speed,” he warned.
Moreover, Brugler elaborated on his concerns about Sanders’ overall readiness for the NFL. “I think Shedeur is a good quarterback, but I have plenty of concerns about what he’s doing and how it’s going to work at the next level. I don’t have conviction this is a guy that you’re going to be able to plug in and all of a sudden he’s going to start leading my team to wins.”
What NFL team makes the most sense to draft Shedeur Sanders?
As the draft approaches, teams are evaluating their quarterback needs, and one franchise that stands out as a potential landing spot for Sanders is the Las Vegas Raiders. Currently holding the fifth overall pick heading into Week 11, the Raiders have faced uncertainty at the quarterback position, with Aidan O’Connell and Gardner Minshew III struggling to find their footing. However, the team boasts some offensive weapons, including tight end Brock Bowers and wide receiver Jakobi Meyers, which could provide a solid foundation for a young quarterback.
Drafting Shedeur Sanders could make sense for the Raiders, not just from a football perspective but also as a marketing move. With Las Vegas’ penchant for star power, adding a dynamic player like Sanders could energize the fan base and create excitement around the franchise.
Shedeur Sanders’ Impact on the Buffaloes
Despite the criticisms, it’s crucial to recognize the impact Sanders has had on the Buffaloes this season. His ability to lead the team and make big plays has been instrumental in their success. Colorado’s offense has flourished under his guidance, showcasing a blend of speed and agility that has kept opponents guessing. Sanders’ performance has not only elevated his own draft stock but has also revitalized a program that has been seeking to make its mark in college football.
The Buffaloes have become a team to watch, and much of that attention is focused on Sanders. His journey through the remainder of the season will be pivotal, not only for his personal aspirations but also for the team’s potential postseason ambitions.
The Road Ahead for Sanders and the Buffaloes
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Sanders and how he navigates the challenges ahead. With the draft looming, he has the opportunity to prove his doubters wrong and solidify his place among the top quarterback prospects. The upcoming games will be crucial for showcasing his skills against formidable defenses, which could either bolster his stock or raise further questions about his readiness for the NFL.
In the world of college football, the narrative surrounding a player can shift rapidly. One standout performance could change the perception of a quarterback, and Sanders has the chance to rewrite the script. As the Buffaloes continue to battle on the field, the pressure is on for Sanders to deliver and demonstrate that he can indeed be the leader that NFL teams are searching for.
The excitement surrounding college football is palpable, especially with the potential of a player like Shedeur Sanders. Will he rise to the occasion and prove his worth as a future NFL star? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the journey is just beginning, and the stakes have never been higher.
