Former Player Christian Fauria Stops Supporting Colorado Football Under Deion Sanders

Former Colorado football player Christian Fauria has decided to stop supporting the team coached by Deion Sanders. Fauria, a past star for the Buffaloes, feels the program has changed and is not what it used to be. He said it has 'a lot of flash, no substance.'
By Newsroom | College Football, Colorado |

Disillusionment with Colorado's Direction

Former Colorado football player Christian Fauria has publicly stated he is no longer supporting the team under head coach Deion Sanders. Fauria, a respected figure from the program's past, shared his feelings, indicating a shift in his personal connection to the Buffaloes. While he still wishes for the team's success, his enthusiasm has waned, leading him to "tap out" of active support. This sentiment arose as he observed what he perceived as the program's focus shifting, leading to his personal detachment.

Key Events and Timeline

The period surrounding Christian Fauria's public statements of disappointment coincides with his son, Caleb Fauria's, departure from the Colorado football program.

Former Colorado star Christian Fauria says he "tapped out" on supporting Deion Sanders' team - 1

  • November 29, 2023: Christian Fauria began expressing strong criticism of Deion Sanders and the Colorado program. This public commentary occurred just before his son, Caleb, entered the NCAA transfer portal.

  • November 30, 2023: More outlets reported on Christian Fauria's criticisms. Reports linked his stance to his son’s decision to transfer, though Fauria has not directly stated this as the sole reason for his change in support.

  • Early February 2026: Fauria reiterated his stance, sharing his view that retiring Shedeur Sanders' number signaled a program centered on the coach's ego rather than broader team values. He reiterated his decision to no longer support the team.

Evidence of Disagreement

Fauria's critique centers on his perception of the program's priorities under Coach Sanders.

  • Focus on Ego: Fauria stated to USA Today that retiring Shedeur Sanders' number suggested the program was prioritizing Sanders' ego.

  • This action, in Fauria's view, indicates a departure from what he believes a collegiate program should represent.

  • "Flash, No Substance": On a podcast, Fauria described Sanders' program as having "a lot of flash, no substance."

  • This suggests Fauria believes the team's presentation and hype do not match its actual performance or development.

  • "Brainwashed" Allegation: In another comment, Fauria suggested that Sanders had "got a lot of people brainwashed."

  • This implies Fauria believes the coach's influence has led to an uncritical following among some fans or media.

  • Personal Connection: Fauria's own son, Caleb Fauria, transferred from Colorado shortly after Deion Sanders was hired. While Fauria claims no personal animosity towards Sanders regarding this, the timing has been noted by observers.

  • The timing of his son's transfer and his subsequent criticisms raises questions about potential underlying personal motivations, though Fauria denies this.

Differing Perspectives on the Program

Christian Fauria's viewpoint contrasts with the stated intentions and public image of the Colorado football program under Deion Sanders.

Read More: Brayden Parks visits Tennessee March 30, considering Vols over 20+ schools

Former Colorado star Christian Fauria says he "tapped out" on supporting Deion Sanders' team - 2
Christian Fauria's ViewDeion Sanders' Stated Philosophy/Program Messaging
Program prioritizes coach's ego.Focus on playing football and receiving a "wonderful education."
"A lot of flash… no substance."Emphasis on player development and opportunity.
Many people are "brainwashed."Appeals to commitment and dedication from players.
Disappointment with the program's direction.Building a competitive team and culture.
Stepped back from supporting the team.Promoting the team and its players.

Fauria's Background and Stated Intentions

Christian Fauria has a significant history with the Colorado Buffaloes, having been a standout player himself. He achieved All-America honors and later won two Super Bowls in the NFL.

  • Nostalgia and Disappointment: Fauria holds fond memories of his time at Colorado, which makes his current disillusionment more pronounced.

  • Desire for Improvement: He expressed that Sanders needs to win more games to retain broader support.

  • Rejection of Animosity: Fauria explicitly rejects any notion that he holds personal animosity towards Deion Sanders. He frames his critiques as being about the program's management and direction, not personal vendettas.

  • He also mentions critiquing other coaches, like Joe Gibbs, to suggest his criticism is not unique to Sanders.

Analysis and Implications

Christian Fauria's critique represents a vocal expression of doubt regarding the long-term viability and substance of the Colorado football program under Deion Sanders. His status as a former star lends weight to his opinions for some segments of the fanbase and former players. The timing of his comments, closely following his son's transfer, adds a layer of complexity, even as he denies personal motives.

  • Impact on Support: Fauria's decision to "tap out" from supporting the team signifies a potential erosion of goodwill among some alumni and traditional supporters.

  • "Flash vs. Substance" Debate: His characterization of the program as "flash, no substance" aligns with ongoing discussions about the effectiveness of Sanders' approach in building a consistently winning team.

  • Future Performance: As Fauria noted, continued success on the field is likely crucial for maintaining broader enthusiasm and support for the program. The team's win-loss record will be a key indicator in shaping public and alumni perception.

Sources

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why did Christian Fauria stop supporting the Colorado football team?
Fauria said he feels the program under Deion Sanders has 'a lot of flash, no substance' and has changed from what he remembers. He decided to 'tap out' of supporting it.
Q: Is Christian Fauria's criticism related to his son leaving the team?
Fauria's son, Caleb, left the team around the same time Fauria started sharing his criticisms. While Fauria has not said this is the only reason, the timing has been noticed.
Q: What specific things did Christian Fauria criticize?
He mentioned that retiring Shedeur Sanders' number showed the program might be focused on the coach's ego. He also said the team has 'a lot of flash, no substance' and that Sanders has 'got a lot of people brainwashed.'
Q: Who is Christian Fauria?
Christian Fauria is a former standout football player for the Colorado Buffaloes. He also played in the NFL and won two Super Bowls.