Deion Sanders Brings Two Quarterbacks to Big 12 Media Days — Breaking Tradition and Sending a Message

Deion Sanders, head coach of the Colorado Buffaloes and one of the most talked-about figures in college football, made headlines again at this year’s Big 12 Media Days — not for what he said, but for who he brought. In a move that defied long-standing tradition, Sanders arrived at the event accompanied by two quarterbacks: his son, Shedeur Sanders, the presumed starter, and backup quarterback Ryan Staub. In a world where bringing one starting QB is standard, this decision raised eyebrows — and prompted deeper questions about Sanders' strategy, leadership philosophy, and the evolving identity of Colorado’s football program.

Why It’s So Unusual

For decades, media days in college football have followed an unspoken rule: coaches bring 2–3 star players — usually a quarterback, a top defensive talent, and a vocal team leader. The starting QB is often the face of the program. Bringing two quarterbacks risks: - Fueling speculation about an ongoing QB competition - Undermining the starter’s position - Distracting from team unity messaging

Yet Sanders, never one to follow convention, leaned into the move.

The Coach Prime Philosophy

Deion Sanders has made clear he runs his program differently. His approach emphasizes transparency, competition, and personality-driven leadership. In press interviews, he downplayed any controversy over the two-QB decision:

> “I brought two quarterbacks because both are leaders.

One’s starting, the other’s preparing like he’s starting. That’s how a real team operates. ”

This aligns with Sanders’ broader mission to rebuild Colorado's culture, which he calls “a full transformation” — one that includes an open-door transfer policy, performance-based depth charts, and visible accountability.

A Closer Look at the QBs

- Shedeur Sanders: Entering his senior season, Shedeur is one of the most high-profile QBs in the country. He threw for over 3,200 yards last season and is widely viewed as the centerpiece of Colorado’s offense. - Ryan Staub: The redshirt freshman has impressed in spring workouts and film sessions.

His presence signals that Sanders values development — and wants to showcase depth and preparation. What Message Is Sanders Sending?

Some analysts believe the two-QB appearance sends a message to recruits and media alike: - No one’s role is guaranteed - Leadership isn’t limited to starters - Colorado is building a sustainable, multi-tiered quarterback room

Others see it as PR genius — keeping the spotlight on Colorado football in a crowded media environment. “Deion is always shaping the narrative,” said ESPN’s Heather Dinich.

“He doesn’t just answer questions — he creates new ones that keep Colorado relevant. ”

Reception Around the Big 12

Coaches and media were surprised, but few were critical. Most agree that Sanders has already changed how college football approaches media visibility.

“Deion plays chess, not checkers,” one Big 12 coach reportedly said. “Bringing two QBs isn’t just about depth — it’s about identity. ”

Conclusion: Breaking Norms to Build Culture

By bringing two quarterbacks to Big 12 Media Days, Deion Sanders once again challenged the status quo — and in doing so, spotlighted his evolving strategy to develop leadership, foster internal competition, and elevate Colorado’s brand.

Whether it leads to wins on the field remains to be seen. But in the game of media, momentum, and message control, Coach Prime is playing — and often winning — by his own rules.