Deion Sanders Explains On-Field 'Tongues' After Colorado Win

Colorado football coach Deion Sanders addressed the unusual sounds he made following his team's recent victory over Weber State, explaining that he was "praying in the spirit." Sanders, 59, had spoken approximately ten unintelligible words at the beginning of his postgame press conference after the Buffaloes' 52-21 win, a moment that drew attention and speculation from observers.

Sanders stated that he was upset with his team's performance even though they secured the win. He explained that he had just finished addressing the team, whom he had "lit up," and needed to compose himself before speaking with reporters. "And the only way I know how to calm down is to pray in the spirit," Sanders said Tuesday. "So, you know, it’s not a gimmick. There’s not a ‘look at me.’ No. No. That’s real."

This practice is not new for the Pro Football Hall of Famer, who has used this method in other challenging situations, including before surgery. "That’s what I do," Sanders said. "And I’ve done that everywhere I’ve been. And we’ve got evidence. So there’s no game. There’s no gimmick. I love the Lord with all my heart, and I’m not scared to speak it in front of anybody, anywhere, at any time. But it’s not a planned type of thing."

The Colorado Buffaloes are 2-0 to start Sanders’ fourth year with the team. They began the season with a narrow 14-13 victory over Georgia Tech. The team is aiming to improve upon a 3-9 record from the previous campaign.