Deion Sanders’ Bold Move: A Scrimmage for the Benched Players

Deion Sanders has always done things his own way. Whether as an NFL Hall of Famer, media personality, or now a college football head coach, “Coach Prime” has never been one to conform to expectations. Since taking over the University of Colorado football program in December 2022, the former two-sport legend has transformed Boulder into one of the most-watched programs in college football — and not always for conventional reasons (ESPN, 2025).

From his first team meeting, Sanders made headlines for his trademark candor. “I’m bringing my own luggage, and it’s Louis [Vuitton],” he famously told players who were part of the existing Colorado roster — a signal that he intended to rebuild the team from the ground up. The statement shocked the college football world, but Sanders stood firm. “This is a business,” he told reporters later. “You either get on board or get left behind” (The Athletic, 2023).

A Scrimmage for the Overlooked

Now, nearly two years into his tenure, Sanders continues to defy traditional coaching norms. With the Colorado Buffaloes sitting at 3–4 after a statement win against a Top 25 Iowa State team, Sanders used the team’s bye week to make another unconventional move.

He organized an intrasquad scrimmage specifically for players who rarely see the field — a gesture intended to help them build game film for potential transfer opportunities.

“We want to make sure everyone sees the playing field,” Sanders told his players in a video shared by Colorado’s official social media accounts. “Now, not all of you are going to stay here, and that’s just reality. But this gives you a chance to get film and show what you can do.” (USA Today Sports, 2025)

The video quickly went viral, amassing millions of views within hours. While some called it a masterclass in transparency, others saw it as another example of Sanders’ brash, business-first approach.

“Not only did we want the guys who don’t see the field to get film,” Sanders added. “But we wanted to show that the portal is an option if you’re not ready to be one of the 22.”

Breaking the Mold — and Stirring Debate

The move, though unusual, reflects Sanders’ evolving philosophy: college football is not just a sport — it’s an enterprise. He has repeatedly emphasized that preparation, accountability, and competition must outweigh sentimentality.

“Deion is showing players that this is the new age of college football,” said Sports Illustrated analyst Pat Forde. “He’s treating his program like an NFL roster — if you’re not contributing, he’ll help you move on, but he won’t pretend there’s room for everyone” (Sports Illustrated, 2025).

Still, not everyone applauded the gesture.

On social media, fans voiced divided opinions:

“How do you build a team culture if you’re already telling half the locker room they might as well leave?” one commenter wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

“If you aren’t getting playing time at Colorado, film against other backups won’t impress recruiters,” another user argued. “It’s a nice idea, but what does it really accomplish?”

Some were more direct — and harsh. “Why would anyone want to play for this guy? No wonder his teams keep losing,” one critic posted.

The Coach Prime Paradox

Despite the backlash, Sanders’ latest move is consistent with the persona he’s built over decades — fearless, unorthodox, and unapologetically himself. “Coach Prime has always believed in giving people a chance, even if that chance means finding success elsewhere,” wrote The Washington Post in a feature on Sanders’ coaching philosophy (2025).

Indeed, his decision to hold a scrimmage for non-starters isn’t merely about optics. It reflects an emerging reality in the transfer portal era — that players need exposure to stay competitive. “He could’ve ignored them,” one Colorado assistant coach told ESPN. “Instead, he gave them an opportunity to showcase themselves. That says something.”

While critics accuse Sanders of undermining team unity, supporters say he’s simply being honest in a sport that’s already transactional. “He’s preparing these young men for life beyond college football — whether that’s another program, the NFL, or a career outside of sports,” wrote Bleacher Report (2025).

Looking Ahead

Whether or not the scrimmage becomes a trend across college football remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: Sanders continues to rewrite the rulebook. His methods may ruffle feathers, yet they reflect an unwavering belief in transparency, merit, and personal accountability.

“I’m not here to play favorites,” Sanders said after the scrimmage. “I’m here to help young men find their purpose — even if it’s not in Boulder.” (CBS Sports, 2025)

Love him or hate him, Deion Sanders remains a trailblazer — proving once again that Coach Prime doesn’t just talk about change. He lives it.