Paul Finebaum Sets Low Bar for Deion Sanders’ Colorado in 2025 Without Shedeur Sanders, Travis Hunter

Deion Sanders begins his first season without Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter, and Paul Finebaum says the Colorado Buffaloes’ success may be measured in far more than wins.

The ESPN analyst tempered expectations for Deion Sanders’ Colorado program on “First Take” Tuesday, saying the post-Sanders and Hunter era should be measured differently.

“Seven or eight wins would be considered very good. And I think getting to a bowl game,” Finebaum said, before stressing that “the most important thing right now is his health.”  (00:48)

Sanders, who underwent bladder cancer surgery earlier this summer, remains at the center of national attention.

“I think the public is watching him and cheering for him, perhaps like they have never before,” Finebaum continued. “So, I don’t think the curve is going to be nearly as steep as it was last year when he had Travis Hunter and Shedeur Sanders.” (1:13)

The Buffaloes enter their first season in the Big 12 without their star quarterback and two-way playmaker, with the reins now going to either Kaidon Salter or Julian Lewis. Moreover, with no distinguishing faces, questions arise about how far Coach Prime can push a roster that lost significant offensive firepower.

In such a scenario, Finebaum’s outlook places Colorado in the six-to-seven win range, which will be enough to secure bowl eligibility but short of 2024 expectations.

Paul Finebaum Cites Concerns and Keys for Deion Sanders to Find Success

Paul Finebaum isn’t writing off Deion Sanders’ Colorado squad, but he’s clear about where the danger lies.

“I think the problem is really the back end of that schedule,” Finebaum said, pointing out that early momentum will be critical. (2:50)

According to Finebaum, a win over Georgia Tech could be the springboard.

“A win against Georgia Tech, like some of his early-season wins, is going to propel the enthusiasm and the interest,” Finebaum added. (2:56)

Despite roster turnover, Sanders’ health battle, and doubts around the program, Finebaum still sees Colorado as a national draw.

“I know everybody’s made a big deal about Belichick, but Prime is still the attraction, in terms of outside of CFP teams,” he added. “They’re selling out. They are going to be must-see TV.” (3:12)

Finebaum emphasized that starting fast matters more than ever in Deion Sanders’ first season without Shedeur Sanders and star Travis Hunter. If the Buffs handle September, he believes they can build a foundation for lasting success, even if late-season hurdles loom.

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