Sanders Vs. Gabriel: The Colorado Buffaloes' Quarterback Showdown

3 min read Post on May 13, 2025

Sanders vs. Gabriel: The Colorado Buffaloes' Quarterback Showdown Heats Up

The Colorado Buffaloes football team is facing an exciting, yet challenging, situation: a quarterback battle for the ages. The competition between highly touted transfer Shedeur Sanders and returning veteran JT Shrout (who has since transferred) and the emergence of Owen McCown has captivated fans and analysts alike. This isn't just any quarterback competition; it's a clash of styles, experience, and potential that will significantly impact the Buffaloes' 2023 season and beyond.

This article delves into the strengths and weaknesses of each quarterback, analyzes their performance in the preseason, and predicts the likely outcome of this intense competition. The stakes are high; the starting quarterback will be the key to unlocking the potential of Coach Prime's revamped offense.

Shedeur Sanders: The Prime Legacy

Shedeur Sanders, son of head coach Deion Sanders, arrives in Boulder with considerable hype. His performance at Jackson State was nothing short of spectacular, showcasing a potent arm and impressive accuracy. He consistently delivered big plays, leading the Tigers to a dominant record. His ability to extend plays with his legs and make throws under pressure is a significant asset. However, the jump from the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) to the Pac-12 is substantial. He will need to demonstrate his ability to consistently read defenses at a higher level and adapt to the increased speed and physicality of the Pac-12.

Strengths: Exceptional arm talent, accuracy, mobility, experience in a winning program.
Weaknesses: Unproven at the Pac-12 level, potential for growing pains against tougher competition.

Owen McCown: The Unexpected Contender

While Shedeur Sanders dominated the headlines, Owen McCown, son of former NFL quarterback Josh McCown, quietly emerged as a serious contender for the starting job. McCown impressed coaches with his intelligence, accuracy, and pocket presence during the spring and fall camps. He may not possess the same explosive athleticism as Sanders, but his decision-making and understanding of the game are noteworthy. McCown’s consistent performance throughout camp showcased his potential to lead the Buffaloes' offense effectively.

Strengths: Strong decision-making, accuracy, pocket presence, football IQ.
Weaknesses: Less experience than Sanders, needs to prove he can consistently perform under pressure.

Analyzing the Preseason Performances

The preseason scrimmages and practices have provided valuable insights into the quarterback battle. While official statistics aren't released for these internal competitions, reports from practices and media outlets suggest a close contest. Both Sanders and McCown have shown flashes of brilliance, highlighting the depth of talent at the quarterback position. The competition is pushing both quarterbacks to improve, ultimately benefiting the entire team.

Predicting the Outcome

Predicting the winner of this quarterback battle is difficult, given the talent and competitive spirit involved. However, based on Shedeur Sanders' proven track record and his impressive arm talent, he appears to be the frontrunner. Yet, McCown's consistent performance and strong understanding of the offense could make this a very close call. Ultimately, the decision rests with Coach Prime, and his choice will be a crucial factor in determining the Buffaloes' success in 2023. The team’s performance in the early season games will be a strong indicator of the coaching staff's decision and its ultimate impact on the team's trajectory.

The Impact on Colorado's Season

The outcome of this quarterback battle will undeniably shape Colorado's 2023 season. The starting quarterback will be tasked with leading a revamped offense and navigating a challenging Pac-12 schedule. The chosen quarterback’s performance will directly influence the team's offensive output, win-loss record, and ultimately, their postseason prospects. This competition underscores the exciting transformation happening within the Colorado Buffaloes football program.

Stay tuned for updates as the season unfolds and the quarterback situation becomes clearer! What are your predictions for the Colorado Buffaloes' starting quarterback? Share your thoughts in the comments below.