Deion Sanders WARNS BYU ahead of Alamo Bowl matchup with Colorado: Hunter is Heisman Trophy winner

Summary

In this press conference, Coach Deion Sanders reflects on the successful football season, celebrating the team's achievements, including key players like Travis Hunter and Shadour Sanders. He shares insights on their recruiting strategy, the impact of the transfer portal, and the importance of building a strong team culture. Coach Sanders expresses pride in his players, particularly in their growth and commitment. He also emphasizes the importance of game preparation, particularly for the upcoming bowl game, where several players, including those aiming for NFL spots, are looking to make a strong final impression.

Takeaways

• 😀 The coach expresses immense pride in the team's performance, particularly with players like Travis Hunter and Shadour Sanders, who have made significant contributions.
• 😀 Travis Hunter is praised as an exceptional and versatile player, capable of excelling in multiple positions, making him a standout non-quarterback in college football history.
• 😀 Shadour Sanders has been crucial to the offense, accounting for 82% of the team's offense, and is one of the highest-ranked quarterbacks in terms of completion percentage and passing yards.
• 😀 The coach emphasizes the importance of believing in the team and recognizing that they have what it takes to win, stressing consistency and avoiding letdowns.
• 😀 The team has seen a strong improvement in its ability to run the ball and balance the offense, an area the coach believes will continue to grow and benefit the team moving forward.
• 😀 The coach addresses the impact of the transfer portal on college football, stating that it’s not a surprise to them and they are prepared to navigate it effectively.
• 😀 The coach highlights the importance of recruiting players with strong character, leadership, and a winning mentality, comparing the recruitment process to replicating what has worked in the past.
• 😀 The upcoming bowl game is framed as a key opportunity for players to showcase their talents, particularly those looking to make a final impression for NFL scouts.
• 😀 The coach discusses the depth of the team, mentioning that even less-recognized players like Isaiah August and Gant are working hard to contribute and earn playing time.
• 😀 The coach shares a personal connection with player Jeremiah Brown, referring to him as a ‘kid’ and expressing excitement about his return after withdrawing from the transfer portal, showcasing a deep sense of mentorship.

Q & A

What was the significance of the team's performance in the Alamodome Bowl for Coach Sanders?

The Alamodome Bowl was a significant event for Coach Sanders as it marked the team's fourth trip to the Alamodome, which he described as a 'blessing.' It was also a testament to the team's improvement over the season, achieving nine wins and seven conference victories, a record high for the team in recent seasons.

What is Coach Sanders' view on recruiting and how does he approach it?

Coach Sanders emphasizes the importance of recruiting top-quality young men who fit the team's culture and values. He is committed to a relentless approach, believing that recruiting never stops. Sanders also highlights the importance of making sure recruits understand what the program stands for and what is expected of them.

What did Coach Sanders say about Travis Hunter's abilities and potential?

Coach Sanders described Travis Hunter as an extraordinary athlete, emphasizing his unique ability to play both wide receiver and defensive back at a high level. He noted that Hunter was the highest-decorated non-quarterback in history and praised his work ethic and leadership. Sanders also acknowledged that such a player might never be seen again in college football due to the way modern coaches approach roster management.

How did Coach Sanders feel about Shador Sanders' exclusion from the Heisman Trophy finalists?

Coach Sanders expressed frustration over Shador Sanders' exclusion from the Heisman Trophy finalists. He pointed out Shador's exceptional performance, responsible for 82% of the team's offense, and his ranking among the top quarterbacks in multiple key statistics. He believed Shador deserved a nomination, especially given his impressive season.

How does Coach Sanders view the transfer portal and its impact on college football?

Coach Sanders views the transfer portal as a necessary element of modern college football. He is unphased by its challenges, explaining that the team prepares for both losing players to the portal and gaining new ones. Sanders also criticized coaches who were caught off guard by the portal, emphasizing that his team had embraced it from the start and had been using it to strengthen the program.

What did Coach Sanders say about the challenges of coaching in bowl games?

Coach Sanders acknowledged that preparing for a bowl game can be challenging, especially with players dealing with distractions such as awards ceremonies and the holidays. However, he emphasized that his team remained focused and determined to perform well, especially those players seeking to impress NFL scouts.

How does Coach Sanders motivate his team during bowl season?

Coach Sanders motivates his team by reminding them of their goals and the opportunities in front of them. He mentioned that players, especially those who are NFL prospects, are eager to end the season on a strong note. He also highlighted the importance of playing 'Buff football' and showing up to compete, particularly for those with aspirations to play at the next level.

What role does character play in Coach Sanders' recruiting strategy?

Character is a key component of Coach Sanders' recruiting strategy. He mentioned that he seeks recruits who not only have athletic talent but also possess strong character, leadership qualities, and a desire to win. Sanders values players who have been supported by positive figures in their lives, such as fathers who understand the game and are involved in their development.

How does Coach Sanders feel about the performance of his defensive and offensive teams this season?

Coach Sanders praised his defensive team for their discipline and ability to stop the run, which is a core part of their strategy. He also highlighted the offensive team's need for balance, especially in the running game, to give Shador Sanders time to execute passing plays. Sanders stressed that the team's improvement in these areas was critical to their success.

What does Coach Sanders expect from his players in terms of performance during the bowl game?

Coach Sanders expects his players to give their best effort during the bowl game, with a particular focus on showcasing their talents for NFL scouts. He highlighted the importance of ending the season on a positive note, especially for players like Jimmy Horn and Isaiah August, who are seeking to demonstrate their abilities.