With spring practices concluding, all eyes are on the 2025 college football season. The Colorado Buffaloes were left off a way to early top-25 list. Were Colorado coach Deion Sanders and the Buffaloes snubbed from being ranked?
As spring practices wrap up, attention turns to the 2025 college football season. ESPN has released an early top-25 ranking, and the Colorado Buffaloes did not make the cut. Although they were mentioned among teams under consideration, some are questioning whether they were unfairly overlooked for the Top 25.
The Buffaloes are coming off a successful 9-4 season, finishing with a 7-2 record in Big 12 play. With just two conference losses, they ranked among the top teams in the league, with only Iowa State, BYU, and Arizona State finishing ahead of them based on overall records. All four teams shared a 7-2 conference record.
In the preliminary rankings, several Big 12 schools are positioned ahead of the Buffaloes, including BYU at No. 9, Iowa State at No. 11, Arizona State at No. 14, and Kansas State at No. 16.
Colorado has lost a number of offensive talents, which may be a factor in their absence from the rankings. The quarterback situation is particularly uncertain as they head into 2025. While the Buffaloes have Liberty transfer Kaidon Salter and four-star recruit Julian Lewis on the roster, neither has yet demonstrated their abilities within Colorado’s offense, leaving a critical position in doubt.
The offensive line also poses a challenge, especially after the spring transfer portal opened. The Buffaloes have seen nine offensive linemen depart the program, including Zechariah Owens, Jay Gardenhire, Cash Cleveland, Kahlil Benson, Hank Zilinskas, Ethan Boyd, Tyler Johnson, Yakiri Walker, and Payton Kirkland.
However, the Buffaloes are bringing in several recruits who could bolster the offensive line, including four-stars Chauncey Gooden and Carde Smith, as well as three-star offensive tackle Jay Gardenhire-Crooks.
Additionally, the team lost a few wide receivers to the NFL Draft, including Travis Hunter, Jimmy Horn Jr., and LaJohntay Wester. Still, they have several players prepared to step up, such as Dre’lon Miller and Omarion Miller.
On the defensive side, the Buffaloes retain key players like cornerback DJ McKinney, who is a potential first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. They have also strengthened their defense by adding important pieces through the transfer portal, including defensive tackle Jehiem Oatis. With a solid defense, the Buffaloes are expected to remain competitive in 2025.
Colorado coach Deion Sanders takes a unique approach to recruiting. He focuses on identifying players who can make an immediate impact rather than simply accumulating as many recruits as possible. The Buffaloes’ class of 2025 is currently ranked No. 35 nationally and No. 2 in the Big 12. Among the 14 commits is four-star wide receiver Adrian Wilson, who could enhance the receiving corps.
Sanders recently secured a contract extension that keeps him with the team for another five years, extending through the 2029 season. He has confidence in the team and is focused on ensuring they have the right attitude as they head into spring practices.
“We’re going to have a fantastic spring; it’s going to be an incredible spring,” Sanders stated. “Our team is better than it was last year, and we’re going to show that this spring.”
“It’s a fresh start. We’re going to create a new environment in a new way. If it’s not, then some of you will be on your way out. You know I stand by my word on that. So, let’s have a great week and kick things off right,” Sanders added.
Despite some questions about the Colorado Buffaloes’ offense for 2025, Sanders has assembled a strong roster that could surprise many as a dark horse contender. The Buffaloes will kick off their season on August 29 against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets.
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