Deion Sanders Switches Offensive Play Callers Before Colorado’s Heavy Loss to Arizona
Colorado suffered a significant 52-17 defeat to Arizona, leading to a change in their offensive play calling. This change placed Brett Bartolone, the tight ends coach and passing game coordinator, in charge of calls instead of the previously demoted offensive coordinator, Pat Shurmur. The switch follows a dismal performance against Utah, where the Buffaloes tallied only 140 yards in a 53-7 loss.
Coaching Changes and Performance Issues
Deion Sanders, the head coach, hinted at adjustments in the coaching staff without making formal announcements. During a recent press conference, Sanders stated, “I might have already changed it and you don’t know.” This cryptic comment suggested that he is making strategic alterations behind the scenes.
Offensive Struggles
Bartolone’s debut was far from impressive. In the game against Arizona, Colorado amassed 299 yards on 77 plays while turning the ball over five times. This performance underscores the inconsistency that has plagued the Buffaloes this season, dropping their record to 3-6 overall and 1-5 in the Big 12.
- Colorado’s current season record: 3-6
- Big 12 record: 1-5
- Loss to Utah: 53-7
- Loss to Arizona: 52-17
- Total yards against Utah: 140 on 68 plays
- Total yards against Arizona: 299 on 77 plays
- Turnovers against Arizona: 5
Shurmur’s Tenure and Previous Coaching Changes
Pat Shurmur joined Colorado as a quality control coach before ascending to offensive coordinator mid-2023. His tenure follows Sean Lewis, who was the team’s initial offensive play-caller before becoming head coach at San Diego State, where the Aztecs currently boast a 7-1 record. Under Shurmur, the Colorado offense averaged 5.2 yards per play this season, paralleling their overall performance from 2023.
Looking Ahead
The Buffaloes have three games remaining and must win all to reach bowl eligibility. Their upcoming schedule includes matches against:
- West Virginia
- Arizona State
- Kansas State
As the season progresses, Colorado aims to refine its strategy and capitalize on their rushing stats, which have shown improvement, becoming the best since Deion Sanders took charge.
