Deion Sanders Labels Rich Rodriguez a ‘Coaching Legend’ Ahead of WVU vs. Colorado

Colorado head coach Deion Sanders was very complimentary of WVU’s Rich Rodriguez ahead of their upcoming matchup.

“Coach Rodriguez is a coaching legend, I respect the heck out of him. He has another chance at the coaching realm, and he’s back and coaching with a vengeance,” said Sanders when asked about facing Rodriguez during his weekly press conference.

“Big East, Pac-12, CUSA, NAIA Coach of the Year. He is a coaching legend to me and I love the passion and tenacity and mental and physical toughness that he coaches with.”

Rodriguez was asked if he has any existing relationship with Sanders earlier in the week. He explained the two have a mutual respect, but haven’t communicated that much in recent years.

Rodriguez did bring up how the Pro Football Hall of Famer’s involvement in recruiting Noel Devine to WVU during his first tenure.

Much like West Virginia, Colorado is trying to end a tough season on a high note. However, unlike the Mountaineers, the Buffaloes have yet to secure a staple win in 2025.

While West Virginia is 3-6 and 1-5 in Big 12 play, the Mountaineers are coming off their best performance of the season in a 45-35 upset win over then No. 22 Houston. offense. Freshman quarterback Scotty Fox led the WVU offense to 403 total yards with 246 registered on the ground. The defense even forced four turnovers as well, making big plays when necessary.

Conversely, Colorado is coming off another blowout loss. Deion Sanders’ team fell to Arizona 52-17 and now has the exact same 3-6 (1-5, Big 12) record.

West Virginia and Colorado will kickoff from Milan Puskar Stadium at noon ET. The game will air nationally on TNT.

Find more coverage of the WVU football program at WV Sports Now.

Note: WVU will honor the 2005 Sugar Bowl team and Steve Slaton during the weekend of the Colorado game.