TL;DR
- USF nearly hired Deion Sanders three years ago, before Colorado's involvement and national attention.
- Rick George's leadership alignment was key to Sanders choosing Colorado over USF then.
- Colorado faces funding and NIL issues, while USF offers Florida recruiting and a clearer path to postseason.
- USF, seeking an identity and builder, presents a captivating coaching vacancy with a new stadium planned.
USF came very close three years ago. They almost secured the sport's most captivating coach, predating Colorado's involvement, national media attention, and the weekly fanfare. Deion Sanders faced a decision between Colorado and South Florida. The Bulls made a significant effort, convinced he could create something dynamic in Tampa.
Rick George was the reason he chose Colorado. The leadership felt aligned was another factor. He felt the vision was attainable. That groundwork has since vanished. George is stepping away, and Sanders hasn't minced words lately. Funding is an issue. Assistance is an issue. NIL is a problem. Given the program's significant national visibility within college football, its fundraising shortcomings have been conspicuous.
While USF can't guarantee boundless resources, it can offer Sanders what he's consistently desired: Florida. He has a deep affection for coaching players from Florida, believing in their abilities, and actively recruits them whenever possible. Out of Colorado's ten commitments for the 2026 class, three hail from Florida, with only one from Colorado itself. This class currently ranks at 98th overall on 247's rankings. USF, free from distractions and public scrutiny, is presently ranked 58th.
There comes a time when fit is crucial. Sanders maintains he can improve Colorado, yet Boulder might not ever entirely conform to his strategy. Success is the objective in this enterprise. The route to postseason play is more straightforward within the American Athletic Conference than the Big 12. In a tournament featuring 12 teams, a dominant American champion secures an automatic berth. Should the conference expand, this opportunity will only grow.
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USF is also playing the long game. Securing a commitment from Sanders would immediately bolster their ACC aspirations. The Bulls are set to inaugurate their new stadium in 2027. They're seeking an identity, a program builder, and someone capable of transforming the atmosphere upon arrival.
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With reports are true and Golesh departing for Arkansas, South Florida presents itself as one of the nation's most captivating coaching vacancies. A particular coach might very well consider their offer.
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