The Colorado Buffaloes entered the season with three straight wins, leading the program to become one of the most-watched teams in college football. But they’re leaving the season on a disappointing note with an overall record of 4-8. But while some applaud Coach Prime Deion Sanders for turning the Buffs this season, a former NFL head coach mocked him with his mirthful remark. 

Ever since the first defeat at the hand of the Oregon Ducks, Colorado failed to make up for the remainder of the season after one more victory over the Arizona State Sun Devils. The eight losses shattered the sweet period of Coach Prime’s honeymoon phase. But despite the dismal record, is Deion Sanders still worth the hype he received this season?

Jay Gruden hatches a joke regarding Coach Prime’s four wins

Retired NFL QB Robert Griffin III has nothing but positive things to say about Coach Prime Deion Sanders and his debut season at Colorado. He said, “Coach Prime lifted (Colorado) from 1 win last year to 4 wins in year one.” To this statement, former Washington Commanders head coach Jay Gruden has something amusing to say in response to Robert Griffin’s statement. He posted, “I wish 4 wins was the standard. I’d still be coaching.” 

Jay Gruden served as the head coach for the Commanders from 2014 to 2019 before being fired mid-season. In 2019, the Commanders started with a dismal 0-5 leading to the dismissal of their head coach after five games. Under Gruden’s coaching, Washington made only one playoff appearance and finished third in the NFC East for three seasons. His coaching record at Washington stands at 35-49-1. 

READ MORE: “Playing Without My Son”: Coach Prime Reflects on Coaching Colorado Without His Star Quarterback Shedeur Sanders

When he was fired, he said, “I’m not bitter. This is a production-based business, and I didn’t get it done.” Jay Gruden currently serves as the offensive consultant for the Los Angeles Rams, a position he got in 2022 after leaving his role as the offensive coordinator for the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2020.

Coach Prime’s impact lingers in Colorado after season completion 

Colorado may not have passed the regular season with flying colors, but it is definitely an upgrade from the 1-11 record last season. The last 23-17 defeat in the hands of the Utah Utes has rendered them 4-8 after a promising 3-0 start. The last game was played without star QB Shedeur Sanders who was unavailable because of an injury. Freshman Ryan Staub filled his place and finished with 195 yards and a touchdown. 

After the end of the regular season, Coach Prime Deion Sanders is still confident and hopeful. He said, “I could not grow if I didn’t go through what we went through. I’m truly thankful. This isn’t the first challenge in my life but I know it’s gonna finish.” Staub also said in his postgame speech, “With the foundation that Coach Prime has built here, we are on an upward trajectory. We’re going to be great.“

One thing is for certain – Coach Prime Deion Sanders never gives up. Despite the losses and heavy criticisms he faced over the last few weeks, he remains optimistic about his Buffaloes as they move on with brighter hopes for the future. And that’s just the spirit every head coach should have for their team! 

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