In a nail-biting season opener, Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders threw for 445 yards and four touchdowns, leading his team to a 31-26 victory over FCS powerhouse North Dakota State. The game marked the start of Year 2 under head coach Deion Sanders, who witnessed both brilliance and a potential costly mistake from his son.
With 1:41 remaining in the game and a comfortable lead, Shedeur Sanders attempted an unnecessary deep pass to LaJohntay Wester, which fell incomplete and stopped the clock. This decision puzzled many, as Colorado could have run down the clock with a couple of simple run plays. Deion Sanders, known for his blunt feedback, had some fatherly advice: “Come on, Dawg, not right now. It’s not time to be the good guy right now. It’s time to put this game away.”
LeBron James shouted out Colorado stars Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter during their season opener:https://t.co/a1oxd5mxMY
— Lakers Nation (@LakersNation) August 30, 2024
The incomplete pass gave North Dakota State a glimmer of hope. The Bison regained possession with 31 seconds left, and as time expired, Cam Miller launched a deep pass that was caught just 4 yards short of the end zone, nearly completing a miraculous comeback. “You ever feel like you won but you didn’t win?” Deion Sanders remarked postgame, visibly frustrated yet relieved by the narrow victory.
The first half of the game was dominated by North Dakota State’s methodical play, which kept Shedeur Sanders and the explosive Colorado offense off the field. Once on the field, Sanders connected frequently with Jimmy Horn Jr., who had seven catches for 198 yards, and Travis Hunter, who recorded seven catches for 132 yards and three touchdowns. Hunter, who also played cornerback the entire game, made a stunning 3-yard touchdown catch with a defender draped on him, helping Colorado secure a 31-20 lead with just under eight minutes left.
Hunter’s performance drew praise from NBA legend LeBron James, who posted on social media, “MAN TRAVIS HUNTER IS RIDICULOUS!!!!! WOW.” Both Sanders and Hunter are being talked about in Heisman Trophy discussions due to their standout performances.
Despite the win, Colorado showed some vulnerabilities, particularly in the running game, as they were outrushed 157-59. The revamped offensive line allowed only one sack but forced Sanders to scramble frequently. “It was cool,” Shedeur Sanders said of his performance, though he noted his frustration with every incompletion and acknowledged areas for personal improvement.
“There’s certain cities that ain’t gonna happen… It’s gonna be an Eli.”
-Coach Prime on Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter entering the NFL Draft @mworthofgame pic.twitter.com/vGx1YPdFY2
— Barstool Sports (@barstoolsports) August 30, 2024
The Colorado defense, under new coordinator Robert Livingston, remains a work in progress. North Dakota State quarterback Cam Miller scored two rushing touchdowns and threw for another, keeping the Bison competitive throughout the game. The Bison, led by new coach Tim Polasek, demonstrated why they are ranked No. 2 in the FCS preseason polls and were on the brink of an upset with a 20-17 halftime lead.
Ultimately, Colorado’s ability to make a few more plays determined the outcome. “The difference in the game comes down to they made a few more plays than we did,” Polasek said after the game. Despite the loss, the close contest is expected to give North Dakota State confidence moving forward.
Key Points:
i. Shedeur Sanders led Colorado to a 31-26 win with 445 passing yards and four touchdowns but risked a late-game turnover by attempting an unnecessary deep pass.
ii. Travis Hunter impressed with three touchdown catches and strong play on both offense and defense, drawing praise from notable figures like LeBron James.
iii. Colorado struggled in the running game and on defense, giving up significant rushing yards to North Dakota State.
iv. The Bison nearly pulled off an upset, demonstrating why they are highly ranked in the FCS preseason polls.
v. Despite the win, Colorado’s performance showed areas for improvement as they continue into Year 2 under Deion Sanders.
James Kravitz – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News
