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When Colorado needed a leader on the field, Shedeur Sanders stepped up in a big way. Sanders not only looked the part of a top NFL Draft prospect but also put on a performance that solidified his candidacy as a potential QB1 for the 2025 NFL Draft.
Shedeur Sanders: He Played At a Top 10 NFL Draft-Level Vs. NDSU
Sanders opened the 2024 season with a spectacular performance against North Dakota State, throwing for 445 yards and four touchdowns while completing 76.5% of his passes. Despite facing pressure throughout the game, Sanders showcased his ability to remain poised, execute under duress, and make big plays when it mattered most.
Sanders' performance wasn’t just about the numbers; it was about the way he commanded the field, made key decisions, and executed the game plan to near perfection. His ability to navigate pressure, escape the pocket, and keep his eyes up looking to throw was on full display and one of the primary reasons he is considered a first-round NFL Draft prospect.
Passing Stats:
Attempts: 34
Completions: 26
Completion Percentage: 76.5%
Yards: 445
Touchdowns: 4
Interceptions: 1
Longest Pass: 69 yards
Passer Rating: 219.4
Progression and Game Context
Throughout the game, Sanders demonstrated his ability to move the chains and deliver in clutch situations:
First Quarter:
2nd & 1, COL 45 (10:33): Sanders completed a 14-yard pass to LaJohntay Wester, showcasing his ability to read the defense and find the open man.
1st & 10, NDS 41 (09:59): Sanders connected with Travis Hunter on a 41-yard touchdown pass, illustrating his deep-ball accuracy and timing, giving Colorado an early lead.
Second Quarter:
1st & 10, COL 25 (04:33): Sanders hit Jimmy Horn Jr. for a 25-yard gain, continuing his perfect start and setting up another scoring opportunity.
1st & 10, NDS 40 (00:09): With only 9 seconds left in the half, Sanders delivered a 31-yard strike to Jimmy Horn Jr., setting Colorado up for a potential score before halftime.
Third Quarter:
1st & 10, NDS 47 (13:52): Sanders showed off his arm strength and accuracy again, hitting Travis Hunter for a 40-yard gain to put Colorado in scoring position.
3rd & 3, NDS 13 (08:16): Sanders threw a touchdown pass to Hunter, converting in a critical red zone situation and extending Colorado’s lead.
Fourth Quarter:
3rd & 10, NDS 30 (11:30): Sanders found Travis Hunter for a 13-yard completion, demonstrating his ability to deliver in high-pressure situations and keep the drive alive.
3rd & 3, NDS 3 (08:39): Sanders capped off the night with a 3-yard touchdown pass to Hunter, securing the win for Colorado.
Passing Depths and Efficiency
Sanders’ passing efficiency was notable across all levels of the field:
Deep Routes (20+ yards): 62.5% completion rate, 194 yards, 2 TDs
Medium Routes (10-19 yards): 83.3% completion rate, 91 yards
Short Routes (0-9 yards): 88.9% completion rate, 102 yards, 1 TD
His deep passing was particularly impressive, with an average depth of target (aDOT) of 30.4 yards on deep throws, and he managed a passer rating of 145.8 on these plays. Despite being under pressure on 25.6% of his dropbacks, Sanders maintained composure, completing 71.4% of his passes under duress for 128 yards.
Handling Pressure and Execution
Sanders’ ability to handle pressure is one of the key attributes that make him a potential top pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. When kept clean, Sanders completed 77.8% of his passes for 317 yards and three touchdowns, but he also proved effective under pressure, completing 70% of his passes for 128 yards and a touchdown when blitzed.
Passing Under Pressure:
Kept Clean: 27 completions on 29 attempts, 317 yards, 3 TDs
Under Pressure: 7 completions on 10 attempts, 128 yards, 1 TD
When Blitzed: 9 completions on 12 attempts, 143 yards, 1 TD
Sanders’ ability to make quick decisions and deliver the ball accurately under duress is a testament to his maturity and readiness for the next level.
Shedeur Sanders Proves He Can be The Top QB Drafted
Shedeur Sanders’ Week One performance against North Dakota State was a masterclass in quarterback play. His poise, decision-making, and ability to execute the offense at a high level are exactly what NFL scouts look for in a top quarterback prospect. While there’s still a long way to go in the 2024 season, Sanders has put the NFL world on notice with his strong start.
If Sanders continues to play at this level, there’s no doubt he could emerge as the top quarterback in the 2025 NFL Draft. For now, though, Sanders and the Buffaloes will focus on building on this win as they prepare for bigger challenges ahead.
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