Deion Sanders reveals what is holding Cormani McClain back from starting role

With the Colorado Buffaloes two-way star Travis Hunter out for at least the next few weeks, there is a significant void for the team to fill when it comes to his position in the defensive backfield. Travis was Colorado’s starting corner, and his absence is likely to be felt in both of their next two games against Oregon and USC.

One of the individuals who could help fill the void is cornerback Cormani McClain. But is the Colorado freshman corner ready to step up and fill the shoes left by Hunter’s absence? According to his head coach, Deion Sanders, that answer is no.

At least not yet.

As Colorado prepares for their upcoming top 25 matchup against Oregon, Sanders revealed their plan at corner in Hunter’s absence and what is preventing McClain from stepping into the starting cornerback role.

“No,” said Sanders when asked if his freshman corner was ready to start. “The plan at corner is cornerback by committee. And it’s why we practice. We’re going to see who steps up and takes over that role.”

Sanders didn’t mince words on who is holding McClain back from becoming a starter on the Buffaloes defense, electing to send a public message to his young, talented defender.

“He is. He is,” Sanders said twice for emphasis when asked what’s stopping McClain.

Sanders provides update on Hunter

Sanders also provided a positive update on Hunter after his admittance to the hospital. According to Sanders, Hunter is out of the hospital and in good spirits. But as far as his recovery time, it was unclear other than the reported three weeks time.

He won’t be out there against Oregon, but Hunter is doing well per Sanders.

“Deion Sanders on Travis Hunter: ‘Travis is doing great. Got out of the hospital yesterday, he’s at home. … He can’t wait to get back.’ CU will go with a ‘corner by committee’ approach to replace Hunter at Oregon. Says Cormani McClain is not ready,” ESPN’s Adam Rittenberg wrote on Twitter.

Hunter ran a go route down the left sideline in the first half of the 43-35 double OT win over Colorado State, but had no chance to make a catch on a pass from Shedeur Sanders thanks to a pass interference penalty on the defender. Right as the ball came down in front of Hunter, however, Henry Blackburn came across and delivered a crushing blow.