Deion Sanders sends clear message to reporters as Colorado prepares for Georgia Tech

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The biggest story of the week coming out of Boulder was Deion Sanders trying something unconventional. A group of about 75 fans and reporters on Tuesday, and again on Thursday, got the opportunity to watch practice. But there was a catch.

Colorado Buffaloes athletics enforced strict rules on media outlets who showed up to cover the team, including no electronic devices or note-taking. Any violation would lead to removal from the facility and revocation of credentials. The "observation only" sessions are somewhat similar to the way NFL training camp is conducted. In other words, Sanders found another way to have a pro influence on college football.

Sanders went from "Ain't Hard to Find" to shut it all down and don't say anything. From "We Coming" to if you come, leave your phone in the car. The puns could go on for days. Regardless of what happened this week, Sanders and his staff have to answer one question three weeks before the start of the season: Are the Buffs ready for Georgia Tech?

What were the Buffs trying to accomplish by abruptly offering this type of practice schedule? If this was an effort to disguise the Go-Go offense, or any hybrid variation, there are two things to consider. Having someone watch practice still puts it out there for an audience. Also, Colorado's opponents are studying all the potential looks they might face.

At the end of the day, every defense still has to stop Marion from putting together a perfect game plan. That's the reality here. The entire world could know what you're going to run, but can it be stopped? Julian Lewis already admitted at Big 12 Media Days that this offseason will look different from previous ones run by Marion. Mostly because the former five-star quarterback is not a true dual-threat.

There's also another side to this as well. Is Colorado's defense equipped to handle Georgia Tech? Keep in mind, these are two completely different teams from when they met last year in Boulder.

How will Chris Marve's defensive scheme be ready to shut down the Yellow Jackets? The duo of quarterback Alberto Mendoza and running back Justice Haynes will be hard to contain. Especially Haynes, who was sixth in the nation with 7.1 yards per carry at Michigan last season. Colorado's defense was second-worst in FBS against the run last year, allowing 222.5 yards per game.

Colorado heads to Atlanta to face Georgia Tech on Thursday, Sept. 3 (8 p.m. ET, ESPN).