Ryan Staub gets support from Shedeur Sanders as Colorado’s starter spot opens up, Deion Sanders says 'They love him'

When redshirt sophomore Ryan Staub stepped onto the field for the Colorado Buffaloes in relief of Kaidon Salter and Julian Lewis against Delaware, few expected the result. Staub completed 7 of 10 passes for 157 yards and two touchdowns in a commanding 31‑7 win. But beyond the stats, what resonated most was a personal call from former Colorado starting quarterback Shedeur Sanders. In a conversation shared by head coach Deion “Coach Prime” Sanders, Shedeur said he reached out to congratulate Staub and offer encouragement. “Yes, of course, Shedeur has called Staub. Everybody who played has called and reached out to Staub because they love him,” Deion Sanders said.Staub’s surge in that Delaware game didn’t just earn applause – it shifted expectations. Having been third on the depth chart, his sharp timing and efficiency in a high‑pressure moment have thrust him into serious consideration for the starting role in the upcoming game versus Houston. Salter, long seen as the frontrunner, has yet to establish commanding performances; Lewis, a five‑star freshman with substantial NIL backing, is expected to redshirt this semester. After Staub’s display, those narratives feel less assured. Head Coach Deion Sanders has stressed that the quarterback position remains open, but Staub has undeniably forced his name into contention.In Boulder, football legacies matter. Shedeur Sanders is more than a former starter – his jersey now joins Travis Hunter’s among those retired in honor, hallmarks of the Buffaloes’ recent golden era. His call to Staub is more than a gesture – it’s a voice of the old guard acknowledging possibility in a new voice. For teammates, recruits, and fans, knowing someone of that stature believes in Staub adds credibility. It’s a moment that suggests leadership, trust, and continuity.Looking ahead, Staub enters the spotlight this Friday against Houston under different expectations than he had just a week prior. If Colorado wants to seize control of its offense, they’ll need him to execute not just cleanly, but confidently. The offensive line, receivers, and play‑makers all must rise; coaching staff must decide who earns the starter nod.Also read: “You could have a quarterback damn near perfect…”: Micah Parsons warns Buffalo Bills that strong defense is key after Packers’ big winIf Staub builds off his relief performance, Friday night could mark the point where the conversation around Colorado’s quarterback battle becomes real.