Deion "Coach Prime" Sanders has moved the Colorado Buffaloes' training camp 113 miles south of Boulder to Fountain Fort Carson High School for a week of workouts and team bonding. This marks the first time in Sanders' four seasons with the team that he has taken the Buffaloes on an extended trip away from campus for training.
The team is staying at the University of Colorado-Colorado Springs and has visited the U.S. Air Force Academy. Sanders expressed a desire for the NCAA to allow teams to scrimmage against other collegiate programs during the offseason, a concept he has advocated for previously.
"We wanted to go somewhere away that was significant, not around the corner like 30 minutes, 45 minutes," Sanders said. "We wanted to get away so they couldn't have really the contacts or urge to drive back home." He noted the importance of minimizing outside distractions to foster a stronger team bond.
Sanders said the environment has allowed players to get to know each other better, leading to "wonderful stories" and a closer connection. He likened the experience to his own NFL training camp days, emphasizing how shared experiences build irreplaceable bonds.
The Buffaloes are coming off a 3-9 season. Sanders, who is now cancer-free, is leading a revamped staff that includes new offensive coordinator Brennan Marion and defensive coordinator Chris Marve. Sanders described the current coaching staff as the best he has had in his career, highlighting their fundamental soundness, creativity, and leadership qualities.
The team has added 45 players through transfers for the upcoming season. When asked about pressure to improve, Sanders stated, "I apply pressure, I don't feel pressure," distinguishing his profession from the pressures faced by individuals in more challenging circumstances.