Despite Shedeur Sanders' exit, insider predicts Kaidon Salter-led Colorado can pull massive upset: "There's chaos across Big 12 once again"

Despite Shedeur Sanders’ exit, Kaidon Salter-led Colorado could still shake up the Big 12. Speaking on Tuesday's episode of "The Hard Count," On3 analyst J.D. PicKell predicted that the Liberty transfer will keep the offense “at cruising altitude” and help Colorado pull a major upset in 2025.

Salter, a dual-threat quarterback, brings mobility that Sanders didn’t. He’s rushed for over 1,600 yards over the past two seasons, an asset for a Colorado team that ranked 107th in sack rate last year, according to PicKell.

The analyst noted that while Salter may not match Sanders’ 4,000 passing yards, he can turn broken plays into first downs. The offense will likely shift from a 60/40 pass-run split to a more balanced 55/45 or 50/50.

“I think that Kaidon Salter keeping this offense at a cruising altitude would keep Colorado in that same altitude from a wins perspective,” PicKell said. “And if that happens, there is chaos across the Big 12 once again.” (Timestamp: 29:41)

PicKell pointed to Colorado’s schedule: home games against BYU, Iowa State, and Arizona State, all vulnerable to injuries, and a season-ending road trip to Big 12 favorite Kansas State.

Entering Year 3 under Deion Sanders, Colorado has a stronger overall roster. The Buffaloes needed fewer portal additions than last year. WR Joseph Williams and Omarion Miller are expected to step up. Despite losing stars like Travis Hunter and Shedeur Sanders, PicKell doesn’t expect Colorado to slide.

“I see no reason why Colorado will take a step back,” he said.

Kaidon Salter is competing with incoming freshman Julian Lewis

Colorado Buffaloes quarterback Salter - Source: Imagn

Kaidon Salter competes with freshman Julian "JuJu" Lewis for the starting job. Salter transferred from Liberty after 35 games, 5,887 passing yards, 2,063 rushing yards, and 77 total touchdowns. His production dipped in 2024 after a Conference USA MVP season in 2023, but he remains a top candidate.

Salter holds an 82.3 grade from Pro Football Focus, fourth among returning Big 12 quarterbacks. His experience gives Coach Prime a game-ready option.

Also Read: "Totally different player than Shedeur Sanders" - CFB insider reveals if Kaidon Salter can replace Coach Prime's son at Colorado

About the author

Mohammad Asif Ansari is a journalist covering college football and basketball at Sportskeeda. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Technology and brings four years of experience as an NFL and EdTech writer.

While acknowledging the dominance of professional leagues like the NBA and NFL, Asif is drawn to the raw energy and unpredictability of college sports, particularly football and basketball.

Jalen Hurts stands out as Asif's all-time favorite college player, celebrated for his remarkable success on the football field and impressive leadership skills.

In his reporting, Asif seeks to capture the essence of college athletics, delving into the human stories behind the game. From the trials and triumphs of student-athletes to the strategic genius of coaches like Nick Saban, he strives to paint a vivid picture of the college sports landscape.

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When not writing, Asif practices basic MMA, hones his biking skills and expands his language proficiency in Urdu and Arabic.

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Edited by Ruth John S