In a recent media day showdown, tensions flared between Colorado football head coach Deion Sanders and Denver Post columnist Sean Keeler. Sanders expressed his displeasure with Keeler's past coverage of him and the Buffaloes football program, leading to a heated exchange that resulted in Keeler being barred from directing questions at Sanders or anyone involved with the team.

The University of Colorado made the decision to restrict Keeler's access following a statement from the athletic department, citing "sustained, personal attacks on the football program and specifically Coach Prime." The university clarified that while Keeler's access to football-related activities remains intact, his ability to pose questions to Sanders or other members of the football program is prohibited.

According to an unnamed Colorado athletic department media relations staffer, some of Keeler's previous references to Sanders were particular sticking points. Phrases such as "Deposition Deion," "Bruce Lee of B.S.," and "false prophet" were mentioned, along with terms like "Planet Prime," "the Deion Kool-Aid," and "circus."

The exchange between Sanders and Keeler during media day lasted approximately 90 seconds, with Sanders repeatedly questioning Keeler's motives and asking why he continued to target the football program. Keeler attempted to ask a "football question" several times but was unable to move past Sanders' line of questioning.

Despite the tension, Sanders eventually agreed to discuss the issue further with Keeler in a private setting at a later date. Keeler later published a column describing Sanders as a "confident man who suddenly looked and acted and sounded... afraid."

This is not the first time Sanders has taken issue with a reporter and implemented a ban. While coaching at Jackson State in 2021, Sanders barred a reporter from the Mississippi Clarion Ledger after the outlet published a story related to a top recruit facing assault charges.

The banishment of Keeler from questioning Sanders has drawn some criticism. Matt Schubert, sports editor at the Denver Post, acknowledged that it is within Colorado's right to restrict access but pointed out that the reasons given by the university are subjective. Schubert emphasized that the move appears to stem from Keeler's critiques of the football program.

Looking ahead, Sanders aims to improve Colorado's record from the previous season, where they finished with a 4-8 overall standing. The Buffaloes are set to kick off their 2024 campaign on August 31 against North Dakota State, marking their debut as a member of the Big 12 Conference.