The Colorado Buffaloes were locked in a hard-fought, but ultimately losing battle against the Nebraska Cornhuskers on Saturday when the score became irrelevant. Seen leaving the field with over four minutes left to play, Shedeur Sanders’ early exit sparked concern for the Colorado faithful.
What Happened to Shedeur Sanders?
Down 18 points, Sanders attempted to lead the Buffaloes back late in the fourth quarter. Despite his best efforts, the game was not meant to be for Colorado, but on a last-ditch effort, Sanders was hit while performing a slide to give himself up midway through the fourth.
A penalty was called, and a targeting ejection sent Nebraska DB Rahmir Stewart to the locker room early. It also sent Sanders to the sidelines, where trainers looked him over as he took a knee.
Shedeur sanders getting hit like this down 28-3 in the 4th quarter is nasty work pic.twitter.com/kf0G4U5Swg
— John (@iam_johnw) September 8, 2024
Sanders returned to the action following the targeting review, but that’s the last anyone would see of him on the field. Soon thereafter, Sanders was spotted exiting the field without his helmet.
Shedeur Sanders is heading back to the locker room pic.twitter.com/7VAjYmUW4Y
— FOX College Football (@CFBONFOX) September 8, 2024
Ryan Straub relieved Sanders late in the contest, with the game clearly in hand for Nebraska.
In the end, Sanders performed admirably for the Buffs. He completed 22-of-38 passes for 244 yards and a touchdown. However, he did throw an interception and he was sacked a whopping six times.
Yet, those sack figures don’t even do his night justice. It felt like every dropback that the Buffaloes offensive line would lose, and lose quickly, forcing Sanders into scramble-first mode.
The Cornhuskers defense combined for six sacks and 10 total tackles for loss in the dominant defensive performance.
Was Sanders’ exit more of a precautionary tale of saving your asset in a game that was clearly out of hand? Or was it something more serious? Both Sanders — head coach Deion Sanders and Shedeur himself — will surely be grilled on his status for their next matchup.
Sanders’ exit will draw concern as the biggest issue from a season ago was protecting him in the pocket. Colorado plays Colorado State in Week 3, an anticipated rematch from a classic contest a year ago.
CFN will remain on top of Sanders’ status for next week’s matchup.
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