Colorado cornerback Cormani McClain was trumpeted as an instant impact acquisition for the Buffaloes when he committed to play for coach Deion Sanders on Jan. 19.
However, through four games, McClain has barely impacted the box score. The Lakeland, Fla. native has recorded just two tackles, both in Colorado's lopsided 42-6 loss to then-No. 10 Oregon Saturday afternoon in Eugene, Ore..
On Tuesday afternoon, Sanders was asked about McClain's lack of playing time and what the freshman had to do better. The former Hall of Fame defensive back didn't mince words.
"Study and prepare. Be on time for meetings, show up to meetings. Understand the scheme," Sanders told reporters. "I check film time from each player so I can see who’s preparing, so if I don’t see that you would be a fool to put somebody out there who’s not prepared. That goes for all our players."
Coach Prime on what Cormani has to do better: “Study and prepare. Be on time for meetings, show up to meetings. Understand the scheme. I check film time from each player so I can see who’s preparing, so if I don’t see that you would be a fool to put somebody out there who’s not…
— Jake Schwanitz (@JakeDNVR) September 26, 2023
McClain was originally slated to attend Miami before switching his commitment to the Buffaloes.
Even as the blue-chip prospect has struggled for playing time, Colorado has thrived. The Buffaloes are 3-1 and were ranked as a top 25 team prior to a 42-6 loss to Oregon last weekend. Another tough test lies ahead, though, as Coach Prime and company have a home date with No. 8 USC this Saturday, Sept. 30.
