FOX Sports analyst calls on Deion Sanders to make quarterback change

Jeff Hauser

FOX Sports analyst calls on Deion Sanders to make quarterback change image

The Colorado Buffaloes’ dominant victory over Delaware not only gave Deion Sanders his first win of the season, it also featured an unexpected name at quarterback. Ryan Staub’s breakout performance has added anothet storyline with calls for a change at the top of the depth chart. Former Heisman Trophy winner Robert Griffin III addressed the situation head on, urging Sanders to make the switch.

Sanders took an unconventional approach Saturday by rotating through all three Buffs quarterbacks. While starter Kaidon Salter and five-star freshman Julian Lewis had their turns, Staub made the most of his limited action. The third-year former backup to Shedeur Sanders completed 7-of-10 passes for 157 yards and two touchdowns, showcasing his skills.

“Ryan Staub should be the starting QB for Colorado,” Griffin wrote on X after the game. 

Salter completed 13-of-16 passes for 102 yards and added 25 rushing yards, but failed to generate the same spark. As for Lewis, racking up two completions for eight yards didn't get the job done. 

Staub’s rise has been years in the making. He sat patiently behind Sanders for two seasons, resisting the urge of the transfer portal at a time when many players seek quicker paths to the field. His loyalty is now being rewarded, and Coach Prime acknowledged as much after the win.

"Love this kid, man," Deion Sanders said. "He has been in this system for three years now, and he is just unflappable.”

The competition now sits squarely in Sanders’ hands. With Staub’s breakout, Colorado’s quarterback room suddenly looks crowded and speculation over who should start is unlikely to quiet down.

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Jeff Hauser

Jeff Hauser is a freelance writer with The Sporting News. He has over twenty years of experience and is a two-time Emmy Award winner, Heisman Trophy and Biletnikoff Award voter. Among the events he has covered are the Super Bowl, College Football Playoff, World Series, World Cup, and WBC Boxing. Hauser is a regular guest on FOX Sports and ESPN Radio. He previously wrote for Sports Illustrated, SB Nation and Athlon Sports.