Colorado Eyes Sac State’s Brennan Marion for Offensive Coordinator Role
Colorado is reportedly eyeing Brennan Marion, the head coach at Sacramento State, for its offensive coordinator position. This information emerged from sources associated with FootballScoop and was initially reported by CBS Sports.
Background on Colorado’s Coaching Changes
Following a disappointing 3-9 season, Colorado head coach Deion Sanders made the decision to demote offensive coordinator Pat Shurmur last month. This season, the Buffaloes struggled significantly, averaging only five yards per play and scoring 20.9 points per game. In contrast, during the previous year, with players like Shedeur Sanders, Travis Hunter, and Jimmy Horn, Jr., they averaged six yards per play and scored 32.9 points per game.
Brett Bartolone, who served as the pass game coordinator, was appointed as the interim play-caller. The team faced challenges, resulting in losses where they scored 22, 17, and 14 points against West Virginia, Arizona State, and Kansas State, respectively.
Brennan Marion’s Coaching Record
Brennan Marion recently completed his first season as the head coach at Sacramento State, leading the team to a 7-5 record. Under his guidance, the Hornets made notable strides, particularly with their Go-Go offense, which saw them finish third in FCS rushing, averaging over 260 yards per game. This marked a significant improvement compared to their 2024 statistics.
In addition to their on-field success, Sacramento State has actively pursued FBS membership, aiming for inclusion in the Pac-12 by 2026. Although the program attracted high-profile recruits, including a commitment from 4-star wide receiver Xavier McDonald (who ultimately signed with Ole Miss), the inability to confirm FBS status for 2026 raised concerns about Marion’s future with the team.
Marion’s Coaching Experience
For context, Marion’s career in coaching has included various roles over the past 15 years. His previous positions include:
- Arizona State: Quality control (2015)
- Oklahoma Baptist: Running backs (2016)
- Howard: Offensive coordinator/quarterbacks (2017-2018)
- William & Mary: Offensive coordinator/quarterbacks (2019)
- Hawaii: Wide receivers (2020)
- Pittsburgh: Wide receivers (2021)
- Texas: Passing game coordinator/wide receivers (2022)
- UNLV: Offensive coordinator/quarterbacks (2023-2024)
- Sacramento State: Head coach (2025)
If he departs Sacramento State after only one season, it will mark a continuation of his trend of not remaining in any role for more than two years over the past decade and a half. This includes a brief stay at two previous coaching positions at Howard and UNLV.
Conclusion
The potential hiring of Brennan Marion as Colorado’s offensive coordinator represents a significant shift for the Buffaloes as they seek to improve their offensive performance. His track record at Sacramento State and success with the Go-Go offense may provide the spark Colorado needs moving forward. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as this situation develops.
