Colorado Buffaloes quarterback Shedeur Sanders found himself at the center of controversy after enduring a brutal and potentially dangerous hit during his team’s 37-21 loss to the Kansas Jayhawks. The incident, which occurred late in the second quarter, drew sharp criticism from former Pittsburgh Steelers star Le’Veon Bell, who didn’t hold back in condemning the play. Bell labeled it as “one of the dirtiest plays I’ve seen in a long time,” igniting a heated discussion about player safety and officiating.
The play in question unfolded as Sanders escaped the pocket and delivered a pass downfield under immense pressure. Kansas defensive end Dean Miller, charging at full speed, collided with Sanders’ knees headfirst, well after the ball had left the quarterback’s hands. Though an official initially threw a flag for roughing the passer, the penalty was inexplicably waved off after a discussion among the referees. The lack of accountability left many, including Bell, outraged.
Bell, speaking out on social media, criticized Miller for the reckless tackle, likening the play to infamous moments in NFL history. Fans speculated that Bell’s comments referred to former Bengals linebacker Vontaze Burfict, known for his history of dangerous hits—including one on Bell himself in 2015, which resulted in a season-ending injury. Bell’s perspective, shaped by personal experience, resonated with many who felt the hit on Sanders crossed a line.
Fortunately for Sanders, he avoided injury from the hit, but his frustration with the officiating was evident during the post-game press conference. Sanders questioned the leniency shown to Miller, noting, “I just don’t know how that’s legal.” His comments highlighted growing concerns about player safety in high-stakes games where referees seem hesitant to enforce crucial penalties.
The incident wasn’t an isolated case. Sanders also faced rough treatment in the second half when Kansas defenders went beyond the whistle, pushing him to the ground and aggressively attempting to strip the ball. Another player deliberately tripped over Sanders and fell on top of him, pushing the quarterback to his breaking point. In a rare moment of frustration, Sanders shoved an official, underscoring his mounting displeasure.
Despite the physical and mental toll, Sanders delivered an impressive performance, completing 23 of 29 passes for 266 yards and three touchdowns. However, his efforts weren’t enough to overcome Colorado’s defensive struggles, culminating in a disappointing loss. While Sanders walked away without injury, the game raised pressing questions about officiating standards and the need for greater protection of players.
