Deion Sanders explains the need for Colorado to get Dylan Edwards the ball in space

Dylan Edwards exploded for 135 receiving yards on a mere five receptions in Colorado’s season-opening win over TCU. The freshman running back also collected a team-high three receiving touchdowns while rushing for 24 yards.

After the breakout performance, head coach Deion Sanders claimed Edwards could win the Heisman Trophy down the road. Since then, Edwards has not recorded more than 75 all-purpose yards in a game. Earlier this week, Sanders weighed in on Edwards’ lack of production.

“We got to figure out ways to get him the ball in space,” Sanders said. “Dylan Edwards is not a between-the-tackle type of guy. The kid is only about 160 pounds, but he’s the toughest 160 pounds you’ll ever want to meet. That’s on us to figure out ways to get him the ball in space and allow him to do what he’s capable of doing.

“In that first game, you saw him explode because all those plays darn near were from tackle-out,” Sanders said. “We got to do a better job of getting him the ball in space so he can be who he is. He’s a phenomenal player.”

Edwards scored four total touchdowns in his collegiate debut. He hasn’t found the end zone since. The Buffaloes’ record has followed suit. Following a hot 3-0 start, Colorado has lost six of its last seven matchups.

Deion Sanders keeps the faith

Most recently, the team fell in heartbreaking 34-31 fashion to the Arizona Wildcats. In the loss, Edwards tallied just 19 all-purpose yards. With two games remaining in the regular season and bowl eligibility on the line, Sanders isn’t giving up on his team.

“Progress is taking place – tremendously,” Sanders said. “The offensive line? You see that tighten up. I’ve seen the offense move the ball consistently and for quite a bit of time. We controlled the clock which was just phenomenal. It’s progress, it’s progress, it’s progress.”

“We just can’t seem to make that play when we have to make that play. That tackle, that block, that pass, that catch, that interception, that kick,” Sanders said. “It’s those types of things. But progress is certainly [being made].”

Sanders and his staff must show progress for Edwards to finish the season strong. The Buffaloes will certainly need him. On Friday, Colorado will square off against Washington State at 10:30 p.m. ET. The game will be broadcast on FS1.