A Historic Decision for Colorado Football
The Colorado Buffaloes are gearing up for an exciting Saturday afternoon faceoff against the West Virginia Mountaineers, with a dramatic shift in the lineup: highly-touted freshman quarterback Julian Lewis is set to make his starting debut. This marks a significant moment for the program, as Lewis takes over the reins amidst a tumultuous season.
Lewis' Promising Start
Last week, Lewis burst onto the scene after stepping in for both Kaidon Salter and Ryan Staub during a challenging loss against the Arizona Wildcats. Though faced with the pressure of a blowout, Lewis showcased glimpses of his potential, racking up 121 yards and his inaugural collegiate touchdown by completing 9 out of 17 passes.
Coaching Strategy and Concerns
Head coach Deion Sanders has not only named Lewis the starter for this game but has decided to stick with him for the final three matches of the season. This bold choice raises significant questions. Will Lewis's development at the helm pay off for the Buffaloes or is it an unnecessary gamble that may come at a cost? This decision effectively burns his redshirt, potentially sacrificing a full season of eligibility:
“This could be a pivotal moment for Lewis; he needs to absorb everything and thrive under the pressure if he wants to lead this team into more successful times ahead.”
A Mutual Decision?
Interestingly, this seems to be a mutual agreement between Sanders and Lewis. Coach Prime previously stated he would respect Lewis's desire to preserve his redshirt, providing a nuanced approach to this decision. As quoted from Tyler King of the Denver Gazette, “Coach Prime says there hasn't been a discussion about burning Julian Lewis' redshirt yet, but if he and his parents want to preserve that, the #CUBuffs will accommodate that request.”
Recruited for Success
Lewis's recruitment journey tells a compelling story. He initially committed to the Buffaloes as a top-10 quarterback recruit in the 2025 class, opting for Colorado over offers from major powerhouses like Alabama, USC, and Georgia. Such choices exemplify a shift in talent acquisition as Colorado aims to build a competitive program.
Team Performance Catalyst
The Buffaloes have stumbled through the 2025 season, holding a record of 3-6, primarily due to inconsistent quarterback play post-Shedeur Sanders. As Lewis steps into the spotlight, his performance, particularly against the Mountaineers, will be critical not only for his growth but also for Coach Prime's rebuilding efforts.
Looking Ahead
Following Saturday's contest, the Buffaloes will face Arizona State and Kansas State to wrap up their regular season. Each of these games will serve as a vital testing ground for Lewis, helping to gauge both his readiness for the future and the direction of the Buffaloes program. The stakes couldn't be higher.
A Final Thought
Ultimately, this decision is not just about one game; it's a strategic move that could define the future trajectory of Colorado football under Deion Sanders. For Lewis, this is an opportunity not just to showcase his skill set but to build a legacy in Boulder. The excitement is palpable, and the football community will be watching closely.
Source reference: https://www.newsweek.com/sports/ncaa/deion-sanders-latest-julian-lewis-decision-affects-his-colorado-future-11015899
