Colorado OC Uses Shedeur Sanders to Explain Julian Lewis' Struggles

Following a win against Georgia Tech and a strong win over Weber State, the Colorado Buffaloes have lost three games in a row within the conference. Quarterback Julian JuJu Lewis started the first three games, but was subsequently replaced during the first half of the team's subsequent match against Baylor. During a recent press conference, offensive coordinator Brennan Marion attempted to shed light on Lewis's struggles.

He explained that Lewis had bypassed the standard process high school quarterbacks typically follow by leaving early for college. This decision forced Lewis to adjust to a new group of teammates, coaching staff, and system, which were vastly different from his previous experience. Marion likened Lewis's situation to that of Shedeur Sanders, who also transitioned from high school to college.

Sanders, who had previously attended Jackson State, had learned to adapt to his head coach's rigid expectations, and had grown into a successful quarterback under his father's guidance at Jackson State. Upon moving to Colorado, Sanders continued to develop and excel as a quarterback. However, Lewis has yet to adapt to the team's demands, which includes the "win-now-or-else" mentality, according to Marion.

He suggested that Lewis should distance himself from the harsh online criticism and focus on further developing his skills. Lewis has completed 61 of 95 passes for 733 yards and six touchdowns in four games, but has also thrown two interceptions and been sacked eight times. The team has yet to secure a win since Lewis was replaced by Utah transfer Isaac Wilson following their loss to Baylor.

Despite the team's recent struggles, Wilson has shown promise, completing 40 of 71 passes for 443 yards and two touchdowns, and has yet to throw an interception. Shedeur Sanders, who previously played in the NFL, has since moved on to the Cleveland Browns as a fifth-round pick. He started seven games last season but was demoted to a backup role this season in favor of veteran Deshaun Watson.