Deion Sanders is bringing his electrifying brand of football to Nebraska, and the anticipation is palpable. The clash between Colorado and Nebraska, set for Saturday at 7:30 p.m. ET on NBC, promises to be one of the most riveting games of the season. As Sanders prepares to lead his team into this storied rivalry, he has been vocal about the spectacle surrounding the game, making it clear that, “Whether you like it or not, you want to see it.”

When Colorado faced Nebraska last year, it was more than just a game; it was a statement. Sanders, then in his inaugural season with the Buffaloes, set the tone by emphasizing the personal nature of the matchup. The result was a decisive 36-14 victory for Colorado. Now, as the two teams gear up to face off again, the dynamic has shifted slightly. Sanders has spoken with admiration about Nebraska’s head coach, Matt Rhule, a fellow member of the 2022 coaching class. Sanders’ praise for Rhule indicates a mutual respect between the two coaches, a stark contrast to the intensity and friction that marked their last encounter.

Rhule, who took over at Nebraska in late 2022, has his own story to tell. He’s been acclimating to the demands of coaching in the Big Ten, and the rivalry with Colorado is not lost on him. In a recent interview, Rhule shared a humorous encounter he had while skiing in Beaver Creek. A fan’s spirited comment about Nebraska-CU matchups highlighted the passion that surrounds these games, something Rhule clearly embraces. “We love rivalries,” he said, acknowledging the excitement that comes with these high-stakes contests.

As Colorado prepares for the game, Sanders is making sure his team is ready for the atmosphere at Memorial Stadium, where approximately 90,000 fans are expected to create a raucous environment. The Buffaloes have been practicing with loud noise blaring through speakers to simulate the crowd’s intensity. Offensive lineman Justin Mayers echoed Sanders’ sentiment, emphasizing the significance of the game and the need to approach every matchup with the same fervor as a rivalry game.

The national spotlight will be on this game, and for good reason. Colorado’s season opener against North Dakota State drew an average of 4.8 million viewers on ESPN, marking it as the network’s best Thursday opener in seven years. Sanders’ charisma and the electrifying performances by his players have captured the nation’s attention, and this game is poised to extend that allure. Colorado long snapper Camden Dempsey has even taken it a step further, declaring this week as “No Red Week” in a nod to Nebraska’s team colors, rallying fans to show their support by avoiding the color red.

This matchup is also significant because it marks the end of a four-game contract between the two teams, which was established back in 2012. Colorado has won the previous three games in this series dating back to 2018, adding an extra layer of intrigue to this final encounter. The historical context is rich, with Nebraska leading the all-time series 49-21-2, but Colorado has shown its mettle in recent years.

One of the standout features of the Colorado team this year is the dynamic duo of quarterback Shedeur Sanders and two-way star Travis Hunter. Their performance in the season opener was nothing short of spectacular. Shedeur Sanders delivered a stellar performance, connecting with Hunter for three touchdown passes. Hunter, who played both offense and defense, showcased his versatility and athleticism, staying on the field for all but two plays. This kind of playmaking ability is crucial for Colorado as they navigate their season.

Nebraska, on the other hand, is introducing a new face under center: freshman quarterback Dylan Raiola. Raiola had an impressive debut, completing 19 of 27 passes for 238 yards and two touchdowns in a commanding 40-7 win over Texas-El Paso. The freshman quarterback’s performance has drawn attention, and he’s aware of the rivalry’s weight. Raiola’s father, Dominic, was a former Nebraska center who never lost to Colorado, adding a personal dimension to the family’s connection to the game.

Rhule’s tenure at Nebraska has seen ups and downs, with a record of 6-7 including a 5-7 season last year. His previous experiences at Baylor and the NFL with the Carolina Panthers have provided him with a wealth of knowledge and insight. Sanders has praised Rhule’s coaching acumen and his ability to build a physically tough team. With a freshman quarterback like Raiola showing promise, Nebraska will be looking to capitalize on their home-field advantage and make a statement in this rivalry game.

As the game approaches, the excitement and anticipation are building. Both teams are coming off strong season openers and are ready to make their mark. Sanders’ Colorado team has shown they are capable of high-octane performances, while Nebraska’s new quarterback and seasoned coach are prepared to challenge the Buffaloes.

In the end, the game is about more than just football; it’s about tradition, rivalry, and the spectacle that makes college football so compelling. Sanders’ declaration that “Whether you like it or not, you want to see it” perfectly encapsulates the allure of this matchup. As fans prepare to watch the game unfold, they can expect a contest filled with intensity, passion, and the kind of drama that makes college football a beloved sport.

So, whether you’re a die-hard fan of Colorado or Nebraska, or just someone who appreciates the thrill of a great football game, this is a matchup you won’t want to miss. The stage is set, the players are ready, and the rivalry is alive and well. Get ready for an unforgettable night of football as Deion Sanders and Matt Rhule bring their teams into the heart of one of college football’s most storied rivalries.