“We got intoxicated by the little bit of success we had at the beginning,” Sanders said at his post-game press conference. “We thought we were the ‘it’ team, and we forgot about the fundamentals that got us there.”

The loss dropped Colorado’s record to 1-3, extending their losing streak to three games. The Buffaloes had started the season 1-0, but have since collapsed in spectacular fashion.

Sanders’ comments echo the concerns expressed by some analysts and fans. Former Colorado star receiver Jeremy Bloom said on Twitter that the team “lacked energy and effort.”

“It’s clear that the Buffaloes are not the same team they were in Week 1,” said ESPN analyst Kirk Herbstreit. “They’re making uncharacteristic mistakes and seem to be lacking confidence.”

The loss to Kansas was particularly disheartening, as the Jayhawks had not won a road game since 2019. It also marked the first time Colorado had allowed 40 points in a home game since 2017.

Sanders has pledged to address the team’s shortcomings.

“We’re going to go back to the drawing board and refocus on the things that made us successful,” he said. “We’re going to get this thing turned around.”

Colorado’s football program has struggled for years, posting a losing record in each of the past five seasons. Sanders was hired in December 2020 to turn the program around, and he was met with great fanfare.

The Buffaloes started the 2023 season with a promising 1-0 record, but their subsequent performances have raised serious concerns.

The loss to Kansas has exposed significant problems within the Colorado football program. It is unclear whether Sanders will be able to turn things around, and the Buffaloes’ hopes for a successful season seem to be fading.

The loss has also raised questions about the leadership of athletic director Rick George. George has been under fire for his handling of the football program, and his job may be in jeopardy.

Sanders has made several changes to the coaching staff since arriving at Colorado. He fired offensive coordinator Mike Sanford last month, and he has demoted defensive backs coach Brett Maxie.

Colorado fans are expressing their frustration with the team’s performance. Many are calling for Sanders to be fired, while others are urging the players to step up.

Colorado will host Arizona State next Saturday. The Sun Devils are also 1-3, but they have a win over then-No. 15 Oklahoma State on their resume.