Enthusiasts’ Hunter out; Sanders informs star ‘get healthy’

Adam Rittenberg, ESPN

• Senior WriterSep 25, 2023, 04:27 PM ET Close College football reporter.
• Joined ESPN.com in 2008.
• Graduate of Northwestern University.Colorado will lack Travis Hunter for a second straight game, in spite of the two-way star’s strong desire to return from a lacerated liver sustained Sept. 16. Buffaloes coach Deion Sanders checked out a text message exchange he had with Hunter in a current group conference, where Hunter mentioned, “I require to play this week. We need to get everything we can so I can return on the field. I’m not taking no for a response.” In a video of the meeting, posted by Well Off Media, Sanders read his reply to Hunter, telling the cornerback/wide receiver that he isn’t all set to return for Saturday’s game against No. 8 USC.”I care about you more than I care about this game,”Sanders said of his text to Hunter. “You’re going to alter the game of football one day when you get healthy and prepared. Your future is brighter than my own ever will be and ever was. Relax and get healthy. I love you, child.”Editor’s Picks 1 Related Sanders then informed the players that he cared about them more than the game however desired them to discover themselves through difficulty. After a 3-0 start, Colorado lost 42-6 to No. 9 Oregon on Saturday, narrowly avoiding being shut out.”How we proceed to take the next action is essential, “Sanders told the group. “What you consider yourself is crucial. How you discover throughout this difficulty is crucial. Everything from here on out is important, because you think you were watched before, today everybody has their eyes on you, since guess what? They wish to know how you respond.” Hunter suffered the injury after soaking up an unlawful hit from Colorado State’s Henry Blackburn along the sideline in Colorado’s victory. Hunter was required to a local hospital after the game and launched Sept. 18. In his first three games at Colorado, Hunter had 16 receptions for 233 backyards on offense and an interception, two pass breakups and nine tackles on defense.Without Hunter, Colorado never ever got on track versus Oregon,

  which outgained the Buffaloes 522-199 and had 17 more very first downs. Colorado next faces No. 8 USC in the house.”I know what remains in this space,”Sanders informed the team.

  “I still believe in what’s in this space, I understand what remains in this space and I’ve got love for what remains in this room.”