The Battle for Colorado’s QB1: A Pivotal Moment in Buffaloes Football

The Colorado Buffaloes stand at a crossroads in 2025, a year that promises to redefine the program’s trajectory. With the departure of Shedeur Sanders, the quarterback position has become the focal point of a fierce competition between transfer veteran Kaidon Salter and five-star freshman Julian “JuJu” Lewis. This isn’t merely a battle for snaps; it’s a defining moment that will shape the offense’s identity and the team’s future in the Big 12 Conference.

A New Chapter in Boulder

Deion Sanders’ arrival in Boulder brought a whirlwind of change, injecting new energy into the program. While the Sanders era delivered memorable moments, it also left the Buffaloes at a critical juncture. The departure of Shedeur Sanders creates both a void and an opportunity. The void is evident: experience, leadership, and a proven playmaker are difficult to replace. However, the opportunity lies in the potential for a fresh start, a chance to build an offense around a new quarterback who can bring a different dynamic to the team. This makes the 2025 quarterback competition one of the most significant storylines for the Buffaloes.

Kaidon Salter: The Veteran with a Mission

Kaidon Salter arrives in Boulder with a resume that speaks to both his potential and his challenges. His journey through Liberty University has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows, making him a compelling candidate for the starting role.

A Career of Contrasts

Salter’s time at Liberty was marked by moments of brilliance and periods of inconsistency. In 2023, he showcased his potential, earning the Conference USA Most Valuable Player award. However, his 2024 season was considered disappointing, leading him to seek a fresh start at Colorado. This mixed bag of experiences could be both a strength and a weakness. The highs demonstrate his capability, but the lows highlight areas needing improvement.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Salter’s strengths lie in his athleticism and arm strength. He is a dual-threat quarterback capable of making plays with his legs when the pocket collapses. His arm talent allows him to make throws to all levels of the field. The key for Salter will be to harness these physical gifts within a structured offense, making smart decisions and minimizing turnovers.

The Hunger Factor

Beyond the physical tools, Salter possesses the hunger to prove himself. He understands that this is a pivotal moment in his career, a chance to silence doubters and establish himself as a premier quarterback. This desire, combined with his experience, makes him a formidable competitor.

Julian Lewis: The Future Arrives Early

Julian “JuJu” Lewis comes to Colorado as one of the most highly touted recruits in the nation. A five-star prospect with immense potential, Lewis represents the future of the Buffaloes’ offense. His talent is undeniable, but the question is whether he is ready to lead a Power Five program as a true freshman.

A Star in the Making

Lewis’s high school career was nothing short of spectacular. He possesses a rare combination of arm talent, accuracy, and poise. He has the ability to make difficult throws look effortless and demonstrates a maturity beyond his years when reading defenses. His presence at Big 12 Media Days as a true freshman speaks volumes about the expectations surrounding him.

The Adjustment Period

Despite his prodigious talent, Lewis faces a steep learning curve. The speed and complexity of college football are vastly different from high school. He will need time to adjust to the playbook, learn to read complex defensive schemes, and develop chemistry with his receivers. This adjustment period could be challenging, and patience will be key.

Learning from the Best

Lewis isn’t shying away from the competition. He recognizes the value of having a talented competitor like Salter pushing him. Building a strong relationship with Salter will be crucial for Lewis’s development. Learning from Salter’s experience and embracing the competition can accelerate his growth and prepare him for the future.

Deion Sanders’ Dilemma

Deion Sanders faces a complex decision. Does he opt for the experienced transfer in Salter, providing stability and a higher floor for the offense? Or does he gamble on the raw talent of Lewis, potentially unlocking a higher ceiling but risking growing pains?

A Coach Known for Bold Moves

Sanders has never been afraid to make bold decisions. His coaching style is characterized by a willingness to take risks and trust his instincts. This could lead him to lean towards Lewis, betting on his potential to transform the offense.

Evaluating the Options

Ultimately, Sanders’ decision will depend on several factors. He will need to assess each quarterback’s performance in fall camp, evaluate their leadership qualities, and consider the overall makeup of the team. The decision will not be solely based on talent but on who gives the Buffaloes the best chance to win in 2025.

The Offensive Impact

The choice between Salter and Lewis will have a significant impact on the Buffaloes’ offensive strategy. Salter’s dual-threat ability could lead to a more run-oriented approach, utilizing his athleticism to create opportunities on the ground. Lewis, with his exceptional arm talent, could unlock a more explosive passing game, stretching the field and challenging defenses vertically.

The Foundation of Success

Regardless of who wins the job, the success of the offense will hinge on the performance of the offensive line. Protecting the quarterback and creating running lanes will be crucial for both Salter and Lewis. The development of the offensive line will be a key storyline throughout the season.

Developing Playmakers

The emergence of playmakers at the wide receiver and tight end positions will also be critical. Both Salter and Lewis will need reliable targets to throw to, players who can make contested catches and create yards after the catch. The coaching staff will need to identify and develop these playmakers during fall camp.

Managing Expectations

The quarterback competition will undoubtedly be a major talking point throughout the fall. Managing expectations will be crucial for both Salter and Lewis. The media attention and fan pressure can be overwhelming, especially in a market like Colorado.

Staying Grounded

Both quarterbacks will need to embrace the process, focusing on improving each day and trusting the coaches’ decisions. They must avoid getting caught up in the hype and stay grounded in their preparation.

A Team-First Approach

Ultimately, the success of the Buffaloes’ offense will depend on teamwork and a commitment to a team-first mentality. Both Salter and Lewis must prioritize the team’s goals above their individual aspirations.

The Dawn of a New Era

The quarterback competition between Kaidon Salter and Julian Lewis represents more than just a battle for a starting position. It symbolizes the dawn of a new era for the Colorado Buffaloes. The decision will shape the team’s identity and determine their trajectory in the Big 12 Conference. Whether it’s the experienced grit of Salter or the sky-high potential of Lewis, the future under center in Boulder promises to be anything but boring. The duel under the Flatirons is about to begin, and the Buffaloes are ready to take flight.