Despite the turmoil surrounding the Colorado Buffaloes’ football program, Shilo Sanders remains optimistic about the upcoming 2024 season.
The safety, who plays a key role in the Buffaloes’ defense, spoke confidently about the team’s secondary during Colorado’s media day on Friday, setting high expectations for what fans can expect on the field.
Addressing the new additions to the secondary, Shilo made it clear that the Buffaloes are aiming to be a dominant force. “All the new guys we’ve brought in for the secondary — it’s going to be a no-fly zone,” Shilo declared. “I’ve heard some chatter, people talking crazy, but we’re ready to show that we’re the best in the nation. Y’all are just going to have to see.”
Shilo’s brother, Shedeur Sanders, who serves as Colorado’s quarterback, echoed his sibling’s confidence, noting that the defense has shown significant improvement during practice. “The coverage has been way, way tighter this summer compared to last year,” Shedeur observed, highlighting the strides the team has made in the offseason.
Colorado has been active in strengthening its secondary, bringing in several key transfers to bolster the unit. These new players join a group that already includes returning nickelback Cam’Ron Silmon-Craig and star cornerback Travis Hunter. The influx of talent is expected to make the secondary not only deeper but also more versatile as the Buffaloes strive to secure a bowl game bid.
“It’s like there are no weak spots now. That’s what the offseason is all about,” Shilo explained. “We’ve been focused on getting better individually, and the coaches have been pushing us to improve. Their job is to make sure we have no weaknesses on defense, and that’s where we feel we are right now.”
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For Colorado fans, hearing the Sanders brothers discuss the game with such enthusiasm is a welcome change, especially given the off-field distractions and controversies that have plagued the program.
Head coach Deion Sanders, who has been at the center of some of these issues, had a contentious media day session with reporters, but the players’ focus on football is a positive sign.
The Buffaloes will kick off their 2024 season against North Dakota State on August 29, and with the secondary aiming to become a “no-fly zone,” expectations are high.
Colorado’s fans are hopeful that the team’s on-field performance will overshadow any off-field drama and set the tone for a successful season.