Deion Sanders faces scrutiny over Colorado Buffaloes performance

Colorado Buffaloes head coach Deion Sanders is facing increased pressure following a period of declining performance and diminishing viewership. Despite a 2024 season where the team went 9-4, Sanders has a record of 10-22 in his other seasons, including a 2-12 record in Big 12 play over the last two years.

Data indicates the “Prime Effect” on media attention is waning. ESPN viewership for Colorado games has reportedly dropped by 67% over a three-season span, falling from an average of 6.1 million viewers in 2023 to 2 million viewers during the most recent season.

Sanders is currently under a five-year, $54 million contract extension signed in March 2025, which runs through the 2029 season. His base salary is scheduled to increase annually, reaching $12 million in 2029. The university previously justified the extension by citing a 20% increase in student applications attributed to Sanders' impact on the school and community.