Following a decisive win by the University of Colorado Boulder football team, the Buffaloes, over the University of Arizona Wildcats on October 19, 2024, the team’s head coach, Deion Sanders, offered some light-hearted remarks addressing former President Barack Obama’s pre-game prediction. Sanders’ comments highlighted the intersection of sports and politics, accusing Obama of “playing the political game.”
Obama, while campaigning for Vice President Kamala Harris in Tucson, Arizona on the eve of the game, made a reference to the upcoming match between Colorado and Arizona. Obama addressed the crowd, saying, “As we landed, we saw Colorado’s buses at the airport. And I know Colorado’s got a couple good players. But I also know you guys have beaten them twice in a row, so don’t bet against the Wildcats tomorrow.”
Known fondly as “Coach Prime,” Sanders took issue with Obama’s statement, which implied his team had only “a couple good players.” Following Colorado’s impressive 34-7 victory over Arizona, Sanders responded to Obama’s remarks during his post-game press conference.
Sanders expressed his admiration and respect for President Obama, but admitted that he had heard Obama’s comments about the game. Sanders stated that this is why he tends to avoid politics, preferring to focus on people, as politicians often have to play the political game. Sanders pointed out that his Colorado team has more than just two good players, contrary to Obama’s implication.
The Colorado Buffaloes were able to prove Sanders’ point on the field, outperforming the Wildcats. By halftime, Colorado had built a 28-7 lead, demonstrating their strength beyond just a few key players. Such was the team’s performance that they could afford to rest star player Travis Hunter during the entire second half.
Sanders suggested that Obama might have been basing his prediction on stats about Arizona’s recent wins over Colorado, as the former President had mentioned Arizona’s two consecutive victories against the Buffaloes. “But president, c’mon man,” Sanders light-heartedly scolded. “You my man. I love you, I appreciate you, but c’mon dawg. God bless you. I still love you.”
With this victory, Colorado’s season record improved to 5-2, surpassing their total wins from the previous year and getting them closer to bowl game eligibility. The team’s successful performance under Sanders’ leadership has been a major talking point in this season’s college football narrative, drawing attention from both sports enthusiasts and political figures.