Jerseys Retired, Stars Shine in Colorado’s Spring Game Amidst Controversy

BOULDER, Colo. – In an eventful spring game, the Colorado Buffaloes retire the jerseys of two legends, début their new QBs, and find themselves in the middle of a nationwide conversation.

Jersey Retirements Spark Debate

Before the game, the Buffaloes retired the jerseys of Shedeur Sanders (No. 2) and Travis Hunter (No. 12), drawing appreciation from the stars themselves and controversy among fans and former players.

“I looked in both of their eyes — I know [Shedeur and Travis] were pleased, they were thankful, and they were proud. That means a lot to me.

”The time frame, nobody’s going to be happy with,” first-year coach Deion Sanders said. “Somebody’s always going have something to say. But the way we are right now, we are a now generation. … those guys deserve what they deserve right now. So I’m proud of them.””

Deion Sanders, via ESPN

The ceremony marked one of the last times Hunter and Sanders would team up at Folsom Field, as both are expected to be high picks in the NFL draft starting Thursday.

QB Succession Inflames Competition

With Sanders gone, the Buffaloes are spoilt for choice between new QBs Kaidon Salter and Julian “JuJu” Lewis. Both quarterbacks showcased their skills in the game.

Salter showcased his veteran poise, while Lewis exhibited promising youthful exuberance, with new Hall of Fame running backs coach Marshall Faulk looking on.

“I fell in love with the offense. We have a fully loaded staff here that knows what it takes to get to the next level,” said Salter.

McCartney’s Legacy Honored

At halftime, the Buffaloes announced plans to honor late coach Bill McCartney with a statue next season. The iconic coach led Colorado to its only football national championship in 1990.

“”Why are we waiting?” Sanders said. “Wouldn’t he have wanted him to see [it], to be involved in it, to feel it, to feel the love, the respect, the appreciation? Why’d we wait? … I’m sad because I wanted him to see that. He can’t see that.””

Syracuse Game Spoils Attendance Figures

The announced attendance was 20,430, down from previous years, with Coach Deion Sanders attributing it to the cancellation of a plan to play Syracuse in the spring game.

“We do have a tremendous fan base, but we need a little more support when it comes to whatever we do inside the stadium,” Sanders said. “We should be packing it like it’s a game.””

Walk-On Gets Surprise Scholarship

In a heartwarming moment, first-year coach Deion Sanders awarded a scholarship to walk-on safety Ben Finneseth.

“As soon as I put my head in his shoulder, I said, ‘Thank you for believing in me,’” Finneseth said. “He’s believed in me since Day 1. I can’t thank everyone enough for giving me the opportunity.'”

Did You Know?

• The Buffaloes have only retired five players’ jerseys before Sanders and Hunter.
• Colorado’s new QB hopefuls, Salter and Lewis, both offered impressive showings.
• The late Bill McCartney will be honored with a statue next season.

Final Thoughts

The Colorado Buffaloes’ spring game provided a mix of emotion, controversy, and talent. With the allegations surrounding Sanders’ jersey retirement, the formidable competition at QB, McCartney’s well-deserved honor, and a walk-on’s new opportunity, the Buffs’ future seems rife with excitement and challenge.

— Stay with 247Sports.News for more updates on the Colorado Buffaloes and the world of college football.