Shedeur Sanders Says People Don’t Respect Him Because of Coach Prime During His Award Acceptance Speech

Despite throwing nearly 4,000 yards this season, Shedeur Sanders won’t be taking home the Heisman Trophy. However, the Colorado Buffaloes star has joined an illustrious list of quarterbacks, including Peyton Manning, Jayden Daniels, and Matt Ryan, by earning the prestigious Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award. During his acceptance speech, Shedeur was quick to call people out for not respecting him, saying that most of it stemmed from how they looked at his father, Coach Prime.

 I just want to thank God for this opportunity. It was tough looking back, just being at HBCU, coming to Power 5. People don’t respect how you played, they don’t respect the things you did not because of me, but because of Pops, because of dad [Deion Sanders]. They just didn’t like him.”

Coach Prime, a polarizing figure, has always been flamboyant and outspoken. That has often attracted criticism from media and other detractors, which often gets deflected onto his son Shedeur. However, the fact remains that in two years, Deion has transformed the CU program. Shedeur and Travis Hunter’s stellar rise is just one of the many proofs of the coach’s Midas touch.

In his acceptance speech, Shedeur also acknowledged the unique challenges he faces as a legacy QB. And, as a true leader, he credited the team, particularly his offense — including O-Line and his wideouts — for helping him achieve this honor. The Buffs QB added that he felt blessed to finally see his dreams come true.

Shedeur will be going to the NFL and would likely be a top-five pick in the 2025 Draft. Getting the Johnny Unitas Golden Award will definitely boost his draft stock.

The Foundation presents the award to the top senior or upperclassman quarterback set to graduate. The winners are chosen based on performance on and off the field.