‘Prime Effect’ is real at Colorado ahead of showdown against Nebraska, but Buffs need wins to make it last

BOULDER, Colo. – As Deion Sanders weaved his way through a crowd of fans, workers, visitors, recruits, celebrities and a sea of cameras, the faces whizzed in the reflection of his gold-lensed sunglasses on a mild summer evening at Folsom Field. It is one hour before kickoff against North Dakota State, and it’s clear “Coach Prime” is not just a superstar; he is the center of Colorado’s universe — the cosmic axis that celebrities and Hall of Famers, his guests and close friends — orbit on the sidelines.

This isn’t just game day in Boulder. It’s a cultural event. Only here can Hall of Famers like Terrell Owens and pro wrestling legend Bill Goldberg be relegated to onlookers — and left alone by fans — as they lean on the walls of Folsom Field, watching their friend lead the Buffaloes on the field before a Thursday night opener against North Dakota State.

“There’s always chatter around him,” Colorado athletic director Rick George told CBS Sports as he watched the pregame scene unfold. “We know who he is. We know what he represents. We know the kind of guy he is. We know his culture and I support what he’s doing. I support where we’re going and I think we’re going to see the fruits of that labor this year.”

Despite a 4-8 debut season in 2023, the “Prime Effect” is still rolling in Colorado. The bombastic personalities of Coach Prime, his superstar son Shedeur Sanders and two-way player Travis Hunter have brought out the best and worst among fans and critics on social media. 

Colorado’s 31-26 win over North Dakota State last week drew 4.8 million viewers on average — the best Thursday opener for ESPN since 2017 — while facing stiff competition from CNN’s exclusive interview with presidential nominee Kamala Harris at the same time (6.3…

Source link : https://www.cbssports.com/college-football/news/prime-effect-is-real-at-colorado-ahead-of-showdown-against-nebraska-but-buffs-need-wins-to-make-it-last/

Author : Brandon Marcello

Publish date : 2024-09-05 04:01:36

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