Deion Takes New Approach Before Nebraska Game, Commends Rhule

Colorado head coach Deion Sanders has tempered the narrative surrounding the upcoming game against Nebraska, downplaying its personal significance. Instead, he has expressed admiration for Nebraska’s head coach, Matt Rhule, as the two teams prepare for their rivalry match.

Sanders stated, “I have a ton of respect for Matt Rhule. He’s in — I call it our class of coaches. We all took on a tremendous test last year along with [Arizona State] Coach [Kenny] Dillingham and several others. So, I feel like we’re a fraternity. I root for that class of head coaches that came in that year.”

This marks a notable shift from last year’s pre-game atmosphere when Sanders declared, “This is personal. That’s the message of the week: This is personal.” Colorado emerged victorious in that match-up, dominating Nebraska 36-14 in Boulder.

In the aftermath of last year’s game, quarterback Shedeur Sanders voiced his displeasure with Rhule and certain Nebraska players for standing on the Buffaloes’ logo at midfield prior to kickoff. His frustration was further fueled by offseason comments made by Rhule regarding media attention, which Shedeur perceived as directed at his father and the Colorado program.

“The coach said a lot of things about my pops, about the program, but now that he wants to act nice—I don’t respect that because you’re hating on another man, you shouldn’t do that,” Shedeur remarked post-game. “It was just, all respect was gone for them and their program. I like playing against their DC, I like playing against them, but the respect level, it ain’t there ’cause you disrespected us first.”

Given that both teams ended the previous season with losing records, the rivalry has seemingly cooled. Deion Sanders acknowledged Rhule’s efforts, saying, “[Rhule] was a professional, did a phenomenal job. Maybe not the job that he aspired to do, but he has a ton of experience and I love what he’s accomplished in his college coaching career.”

Colorado kicked off its season with a close win against North Dakota State, finishing 31-26. Meanwhile, Nebraska began its season strongly, securing a convincing 40-7 victory over UTEP. Both teams are looking to build on their respective opening games as they face off once again.

With a renewed focus on sportsmanship and respect, the dynamics of this year’s matchup suggest a different vibe as each coach emphasizes their professional rapport. The Buffaloes and Cornhuskers will be looking to not just claim a win but to showcase their growth and maturity in this storied rivalry.