Deion Sanders issues apology for postgame incident between Colorado fans, BYU players
Based on some of the chants made and directed at BYU by those at Folsom Field on Saturday night, Colorado had to release a statement apologizing to the Cougars, with the Big 12 also getting involved this afternoon. Deion Sanders has now had to do the same in issuing an apology to Brigham Young.
Sanders shared that to close his press conference earlier on Tuesday. He apologized for whatever postgame incident took place between their crowd, specifically their students, and their opponent’s players considering what was said their way.
“Let me mention this, and Rick might not want me to mention it. I know there was an incident at the conclusion of the game. On behalf of CU, on behalf of our athletic department, we would like to apologize to our opponents from a week ago for whatever derogatory statements were made by our fans,” said Sanders. “That’s not indicative of who we are. Our student body, our kids, are phenomenal. So, don’t indict us just based on a group of young kids that probably was intoxicated and high simultaneously. Maybe I shouldn’t have said that as well, but the truth will make you free.
“But, BYU – we love you, we appreciate you, and we support you. God bless.”
Again, with the use of hateful speech directed at those for BYU, Colorado had already issued an apology from CU Chancellor Justin Schwartz and AD Rick George. Now, the Big 12 has not just posted a statement themselves today but also levied a $50,000 fine against the Buffaloes.
“The University of Colorado Boulder strongly condemns the use of expletives and religious slurs by individuals in the stands during the recent football game against BYU. Such behavior is deeply disappointing and does not reflect the values of respect, inclusion and integrity we expect of our campus community,” read the statement from Colorado. “The university and CU Athletics have a strict policy when it comes to abusive behavior, and those found to have engaged in conduct that is not consistent with our values are held accountable. CU Boulder is committed to fostering an environment where all individuals—students, staff, faculty, alumni, opposing fans and other visitors—feel welcome and safe. Discriminatory language and hostile conduct have no place at our athletic events or anywhere on our campus. We thank the majority of our fans who continue to support our teams with enthusiasm and respect. Together, we can ensure that CU Boulder events remain a source of pride and unity for our community and that visitors to our campus have a positive experience.”
“Hateful and discriminatory language has no home in the Big 12 Conference. While we appreciate Colorado apologizing for the chants that occurred in the stands during Saturday’s game, the Big 12 maintains zero tolerance for such behavior,” said Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark. “Colorado will receive a $50,000 fine in accordance with our Conference policies.”
This all took place on Saturday night when No. 25 BYU won 24-21 over Colorado. The Buffaloes began up 14-0, but the Cougars battled for a comeback to get the three-point win. That result kept Brigham Young undefeated this season at 4-0 with their first conference win, while Colorado fell to 2-3 having lost to each of their power opponents so far at an 0-2 start in the Big 12 too.
With the nature of those chants directed at the faith of the players at BYU, this had to be addressed by both Colorado and the Big 12. Coach Prime has now also offered his condolences for what was said by those in Boulder.
