Washington State trolls Shedeur Sanders with a touchdown celebration

Grant Grubbsby:Grant Grubbs11/17/23

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It didn’t take long for Washington State to taunt Colorado in the teams’ matchup on Friday night. After running back Lincoln Victor found the end zone on a 15-yard run, he held up his wrist, mimicking Shedeur Sanders‘ popular celebration.

One time wasn’t enough. Victor threw up his wrist again after the Cougars kicked in the extra point. Colorado doesn’t need any extra motivation. The Buffaloes are on a four-game losing streak and must win their final two regular season contests to reach a bowl game.

A few measly taunts were the least of Sanders’ early concerns. Before eight minutes had passed, Sanders had already suffered four sacks. On the fourth slam, Sanders fumbled. The Cougars pounced on the opportunity, taking the ball to the end zone and forcing Colorado’s offense directly back on the field.

However, Sanders didn’t join them. Instead, backup QB Ryan Staub took the field while Sanders tried to loosen his arm on the sideline. After an awkward toss, Shedeur Sanders turned to his dad, Deion Sanders, and pointed to his arm at one point as if to indicate an injury.

Despite the initial concern, Sanders returned on the following drive. Not only did he return, but he launched a 45-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Travis Hunter.

Shedeur Sanders is used to adversity

This isn’t the first time the junior QB has faced injuries due to his front five. The Buffaloes’ offensive line has been abysmal this season, allowing nearly five sacks per game, the second-most in the country. Before Colorado’s matchup with Washington State, Deion Sanders praised Shedeur’s grit in the face of such obstacles.

“What I really admire the most is how he handles this moment. I think he’s done tremendous with these [press] moments and the questions that have come at him. And some of the things that you guys miss, I wish you would ask him. It’s phenomenal,” Deion Sanders said. “But I love the way he handles himself – publicly, privately, on the field, off the field. I love the way he’s handled himself this season. I’m proud of him.”

Sanders hasn’t allowed Colorado’s recent slump stop him from boasting a fantastic campaign. The 6-foot-2 QB entered Friday night with 3,144 passing yards and 26 touchdowns while only throwing three interceptions.

Further, Sanders Shedeur Sanders has passed for 10 touchdowns, with only one interception during Colorado’s four-game losing streak. As of this report, Washington State leads Colorado 21-7 at the end of the first quarter.