Colorado’s offensive game has been a work in progress as the program struggles to find its footing under Deion Sanders. The Buffaloes rank 123rd out of 134 top-level college football programs, averaging just 204.3 yards per game. And with 3 games into the season, it was shocking to see from Friday’s game against Houston that Colorado still lacks a true offensive identity.

Although Ryan Staub had been picked under center, his brief bursts of promise weren’t enough to win the game. Staub’s performance, which included one touchdown, two interceptions, and 204 passing yards, put the Buffs back where they started. Between new faces, missing stars like Travis Hunter and Shedeur Sanders from last year, and an offense that still seems unsure whether it wants to run, throw, or just hope for the best, the question is obvious: How long will it take before the team finally clicks?

In a recent X post, Colorado’s WRs coach Bret Bartolone broke down the offense’s struggles, saying, “We’ve got to find who we are as an offense.” With the problem identified, he declared the mission to resolve it. “Us coaches have to figure that out and get that out of our players. We need to solidify the quarterback position right, make sure he’s comfortable, and do things that maximize his skill sets.” He didn’t sugarcoat the work ahead, adding, “Once we find that, and I feel like we’re truly on track doing that, then we’re going to be in a much better place.”

I asked Coach Bartolone about what’s prevented offensive consistency.

His answer was excellent.

“We have to find our identity as an offense … us coaches have to find that.”

“We have to solidify the QB position … and do things that maximize his skill sets.” 🎯 pic.twitter.com/J3xP3T1HWp

— Scott Procter (@ScottProcter_) September 17, 2025

After Colorado’s 36-20 loss to Houston, Wyoming head coach Jay Sawvel echoed concerns that had been circulating in Boulder for weeks. In response to a question about getting ready for Ryan Staub, Kaidon Salter, or freshman Julian “JuJu” Lewis, Sawvel stated, “I don’t know that they alter their offense dramatically.” He went on to say that the system appears quite predictable regardless of who is under center, which is a big issue for a team that is having trouble finding its rhythm.

Deion Sanders spoke about the increasing criticism while avoiding becoming stuck in the ‘identity’ controversy. Sanders stated, “I don’t really get into the identity thing, not whatsoever… I would like to do some things better… we’d like to be consistent offensively and defensively. But I can’t be narrowed down to, ‘What’s your identity?’ What does that mean?” Despite the rocky start, Sanders believes, “We’re getting there. And we’re gonna get there within the next, maybe Saturday, maybe a couple of games after that.” With only three games played, Sanders faces pressure to lock down the quarterback position and unleash a more fluid offensive flow.

Colorado turns back to Kaidon Salter as QB1

This week, Colorado will return to quarterback Kaidon Salter, and to be honest, it seems like Coach Prime had no other option. The Buffs are in dire need of experience and production right now, and Salter, the Liberty transfer who started the season as QB1, provides both. In 2023, at Liberty, he led the Flames to a Fiesta Bowl and with 32 touchdowns against just six picks. Deion Sanders appears prepared to rely on the tried-and-tested player once more after experimenting with Ryan Staub during the Houston defeat. During his press conference, Sanders stated that he is seeking “consistency and leadership.”

Salter provides Colorado with a real dual-threat, something Staub simply cannot match. With the run game stuck in neutral, it’s crucial that he can use his legs to keep defenses in check. Tyler King of the Gazette even supported the move, “When looking at what the Cowboys will bring to Folsom Field, Salter could wind up as the best option.” Coach Prime has made it clear before that he wants his quarterback to make “at least three game-changing plays” for the Buffs to win. If there’s a QB on this roster who can make those plays right now, it’s Salter.

That does not mean Staub is entirely out of the picture. Wyoming’s Jay Sawvel even acknowledged that his staff is getting ready for both quarterbacks. “Ryan Staub has a cool presence, gets the ball out accurately. With Kaidon Salter there is an added element of athleticism,” he said. Still, the offense requires consistency, and Salter’s experience might make the difference. He’s 22, battle-tested, and carries himself like a leader, which this young team clearly requires. But now, giving Salter the keys isn’t the only difficulty. It is up to Pat Shurmur and the offensive staff to stop being so predictable, open up the playbook, and build around his skill set.