Deion Sanders Praises Mike Gundy, Eric Morris Ahead of Colorado's Trip to Oklahoma State

NCAAF College Football News, Photos, Stats, Scores, Schedule & Videos...

BOULDER, Co. — Colorado head coach Deion Sanders had plenty of positive things to say about Oklahoma State football before his Buffaloes travel to Stillwater for Saturday's Big 12 matchup.

But before breaking down the Cowboys' personnel or discussing the challenges of facing first-year head coach Eric Morris, Sanders took a moment to recognize the man Morris replaced. Former Oklahoma State head coach Mike Gundy.

During his weekly press conference, Sanders opened with a heartfelt tribute to Gundy, praising his accomplishments, character and lasting impact on the Cowboys' program. He even extended a personal invitation.

Sanders Shows His Appreciation for Gundy

"Eric Morris in his first season, and oh wow, replacing a legend in Coach Mike Gundy," Sanders said.

The Colorado head coach then delivered a message directly to Oklahoma State's former longtime leader.

"If this gets back to Coach Gundy, we love and appreciate you," Sanders said. "You not were, are still the man. And anytime you want to fish, let me know."

Sanders continued by recognizing the remarkable run Gundy enjoyed at Oklahoma State.

"He's unbelievable, the run he had, the man he is," Sanders said.

Gundy spent 21 seasons as Oklahoma State's head coach, becoming the winningest coach in program history and leading the Cowboys to some of their most successful seasons. His tenure included a Big 12 championship in 2011, multiple New Year's Six bowl appearances and an extended stretch of national relevance.

Replacing a coach with that history presents a significant challenge for any successor, something Sanders clearly understands. However, the Colorado coach believes Morris has handled that transition impressively.

Coach Prime Impressed With Morris' Early Work

Sanders praised Morris for the changes he has made since arriving in Stillwater from North Texas.

"Coach Morris has been doing a great job, and I mean a great job," Sanders said.

He specifically pointed to the new head coach's approach to constructing his roster and establishing the personnel he wants within the program. Sanders noted that Morris brought players with him and made changes to the roster, giving the Cowboys a different identity under their new leadership.

"Got exactly what he wanted. The right guys in," Sanders said.

He also singled out Oklahoma State's quarterback play.

"A quarterback who can flat-out spin it," Sanders said.

That description fits the production of Drew Mestemaker, who has emerged as a major part of Oklahoma State's offensive success this season. Mestemaker threw for 365 yards and three touchdowns in Saturday's 35-32 loss to Houston, marking his fifth consecutive game with at least 300 passing yards. Although the Cowboys couldn't complete their second-half comeback, the offense has demonstrated its ability to generate explosive plays under Morris.

Sanders also acknowledged that Oklahoma State's defense remains a work in progress.

"Defense, they coming. They're going to get there," Sanders said.

His comments came after Houston quarterback Conner Weigman threw for 343 yards and five touchdowns against the Cowboys. Still, Sanders expressed confidence in the direction Morris is taking the program.

Respect Before a Big 12 Showdown

Sanders closed his remarks by emphasizing his respect for fellow coaches throughout the Big 12.

"I'm proud of him because I root for all the guys in the Big 12 except when they play against us," Sanders said. "I root for all of them."

That final qualification is particularly relevant this week. Oklahoma State enters Saturday's game at 4-2 overall and 2-1 in Big 12 play, looking to rebound from its first conference loss of the season. Colorado, meanwhile, comes to Stillwater at 2-4 overall and 0-3 in conference play after a narrow 27-24 defeat against Utah.

The Cowboys will host the Buffaloes during America's Greatest Homecoming, providing Morris with another opportunity to build momentum in his first season. Saturday's matchup is scheduled for 6 p.m. CT on FS1.

For Sanders, the respect is clear. He admires what Gundy built over more than two decades, and he appreciates what Morris is trying to establish in the next chapter of Oklahoma State football. But when the Buffaloes take the field Saturday night, that admiration will have to wait until after the final whistle.

More at NCAAF College Football News, Photos, Stats, Scores, Schedule & Videos