Colorado coach Deion Sanders dismisses players after 41-7 loss to Northwestern
Colorado head coach Deion Sanders said a few players were removed from the roster following a 41-7 defeat at Northwestern, and safety Ben Finneseth apologized for pre-game remarks about the opponent.
Colorado head coach Deion Sanders announced on Tuesday that a few players have been dismissed from the football team after the Buffaloes suffered a 41-7 loss to Northwestern on Sept. 19. Sanders said the removals were due to "conduct detrimental to the team" and did not identify the individuals involved. The university’s athletic department indicated that roster changes have not been finalized and an updated list will be released later in the week.
During the weekly press conference, safety Ben Finneseth stood up to apologize for comments made before the game that disparaged Northwestern. Finneseth said the remarks were "childish" and "stupid" and pledged that such behavior would not recur.
Sanders described the dismissals as a measure to protect the team and noted that some players had approached him to proactively address problems. He added that he is increasing expectations for both players and coaches and is taking full responsibility for the loss.
Linebacker Tyler Martinez and defensive back Randon Fontenette also commented, emphasizing that accountability is necessary for future success.
Colorado enters its next game against Baylor on Sept. 26 with a 2-1 record in Sanders’ fourth season, but the program has endured three defeats by 34 points or more in its last eight games.