LAWRENCE — Kansas football will face No. 18 Colorado on Saturday in a matchup that will certainly garner a lot of attention.
Although the Jayhawks (4-6, 3-4 Big 12) have not enjoyed the season many expected, they are coming off of back-to-back wins in Big 12 Conference play against ranked opponents — Iowa State at home and BYU on the road. Colorado (8-2, 6-1) remains in contention for a Big 12 title and spot in the College Football Playoff. Both Kansas coach Lance Leipold and Colorado coach Deion Sanders have brought renewed energy to their respective programs.
But what does Sanders think about his upcoming opponent? What did he have to say this week ahead of kickoff, which is set for 2:30 p.m. CT at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri? Here are a few takeaways from his press conference, which is available on the “CFB on FOX” YouTube page.
Kansas football coach Lance Leipold outlines respect for Colorado football, Deion Sanders
Deion Sanders highlights how Lance Leipold’s team hasn’t quit
Sanders, who is thankful he and Leipold have developed a relationship that sees them reach out to each other probably every few weeks, highlighted how Leipold and the Kansas coaching staff have not allowed their players to give up. No matter what people might think about the Jayhawks’ record, Sanders explained, these past two weeks have shown what Leipold’s squad can do against high-profile teams. He expects Leipold to have KU ready to play.
This is what stands out to Deion Sanders about Kansas
Sanders said Colorado is about to face a tremendous team, and added he has the upmost respect for Leipold and Kansas in general. Overall, Sanders noted the Jayhawks are tough and physical, and play a consistent game. Sanders explained Kansas’ quarterback can cause problems with his versatility and that the defense has shown an ability to record interceptions, in addition to highlighting how the venue can present its own challenges.
Deion Sanders explains how Colorado will look to end Kansas’ winning streak
Colorado’s path to ending Kansas’ two-game winning streak, from Sanders’ perspective, centers on playing how Colorado plays. That means being physical, being aggressive defensively and moving the ball down the field offensively. Of course he would like his team to be better running the ball, but overall he’s looking to ensure they get the ball to the right people at the right time.
Sanders added they’ll look to shut down the opponent’s running game. He wants the opposing offense to be one-dimensional. From there, it’s about taking advantage of situational football.
Jordan Guskey covers University of Kansas Athletics at The Topeka Capital-Journal. He is the National Sports Media Association’s sportswriter of the year for the state of Kansas for 2022. Contact him at jmguskey@gannett.com or on Twitter at @JordanGuskey.
This article originally appeared on Topeka Capital-Journal: Why Deion Sanders is praising Kansas football coach Lance Leipold
