What's Happening?
Colorado football coach Deion Sanders has decided to utilize freshman quarterback Julian 'JuJu' Lewis for the remainder of the season, foregoing his redshirt year. Lewis made his first collegiate start
against West Virginia, where he threw for 299 yards and two touchdowns, despite the team's 29-22 loss. Under NCAA rules, players can participate in up to four games without losing a season of eligibility. Lewis, who reclassified to start college early, has already played in three games, with two remaining. Sanders had previously stated that the decision to redshirt would be up to Lewis, who expressed his desire to continue playing. This decision comes as Colorado seeks to turn around a challenging season, currently standing at 3-7.
Why It's Important?
The decision to play Lewis instead of redshirting him has significant implications for Colorado's football program. By investing in Lewis now, Sanders is focusing on building a foundation for the future, potentially improving the team's performance in upcoming seasons. Lewis's early exposure to collegiate-level play could accelerate his development, providing Colorado with a promising quarterback for the next few years. This move also highlights the strategic decisions coaches must make regarding player development and team dynamics, especially in a season with disappointing results. The NCAA's redshirt rule, which is currently being challenged in court, could further impact how teams manage player eligibility and development.
What's Next?
Colorado will have an off week before facing Arizona State on November 22 and Kansas State on November 29. These games will be crucial for Lewis to gain more experience and for the team to assess his potential as a long-term starter. Meanwhile, the NCAA's redshirt rule is under scrutiny in a federal lawsuit that could allow players to compete for five seasons instead of four. A court hearing in Nashville on December 15 may influence future eligibility rules, potentially affecting decisions like Sanders's in the future.
Beyond the Headlines
The decision to play Lewis reflects broader trends in college sports, where early talent development is increasingly prioritized. It also underscores the pressures on young athletes to perform at high levels, balancing personal growth with team success. The legal challenge to the NCAA's redshirt rule could reshape college sports, offering players more flexibility in their careers and impacting recruitment strategies.
