The upcoming Alamo Bowl featuring the 23rd-seeded Colorado Buffaloes and the 17th-seeded BYU Cougars isn’t just another postseason matchup; It is a showcase of mutual respect, camaraderie and shared adversity between two programs that exceeded all expectations. Head coaches Deion Sanders and Kalani Sitake met with the media to discuss the highly anticipated game, offering insights that reflected more than just tactical preparation – they highlighted the unique bond that has formed between the two leaders.

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Both Colorado and BYU were predicted to struggle in the Big 12 this season. Experts predicted that the Buffaloes and Cougars would finish at the bottom of the standings, yet both teams found themselves in the running for the Big 12 Championship by season’s end. However, tough losses to Kansas dashed those hopes and ultimately left both teams on a collision course in the Alamo Bowl.

This unexpected pairing carries weight because it contradicts the narrative that both programs lacked the talent or depth to compete at the highest level. Sanders and Sitake acknowledged that journey in their press conference, expressing pride in their teams for overcoming adversity. “We shouldn’t be here,” Sanders remarked. “But we’re not just coming to make a cameo. We are here to win.” Sitake echoed similar sentiments, reinforcing the idea that both teams see this game as an opportunity to end their season with a statement win.

Respect instead of rivalry

What stood out most at the joint press conference was the mutual respect between Sanders and Sitake. In a college football landscape often characterized by hostility and competition, this matchup feels refreshingly cordial. Sanders praised Sitake’s coaching talents, describing him as “a man of great character” and someone he considers a friend. Sitake returned the favor, emphasizing Sanders’ influence on his players and praising the Buffaloes’ intelligence and preparedness.

“It’s not just about talent,” Sitake said. “Deion has been showing this for a long time. The success he’s had, a Heisman Trophy winner, the way he’s built this program – there’s intelligence behind it. His players reflect that.”

During the press conference, the two trainers even shared lighthearted moments and joked about their respective fashion choices. Sanders, known for his charismatic personality and stylish outfits, praised Sitake’s “sharp” performance. Sitake, in turn, joked that if they swapped closets, he would probably benefit more from Sanders’ closet than Sanders would from his. These light-hearted moments highlighted the genuine friendship between the two head coaches and set the tone for a game that will be closely contested but free of unnecessary animosity.

Live the Alamo Bowl experience

At a time when many bowl games have lost significance due to player opt-outs and transfer portal activity, the Alamo Bowl stands out. Both Sanders and Sitake emphasized that their teams are approaching this game with the same intensity as they would a regular-season contest. “Everyone plays,” Sanders explained. “Nobody sits outside. This game is important.”

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The coaches also thanked the city of San Antonio and praised the hospitality shown to them and their teams throughout the week. Sanders told a particularly touching story about a parade on the Riverwalk where even homeless people recognized and celebrated him. “Then you know you’re in a good city,” he said. Sitake also recalled the warm welcome and described the experience as unforgettable for his players and staff.

The week leading up to the game included shared team activities such as a visit to SeaWorld, which Sanders described as a bonding experience. “I told their players we were family,” Sanders said, reinforcing the sense of togetherness between the two programs.

A farewell for key players from both programs

While the game itself takes center stage, there is an emotional undercurrent as Sanders prepares to coach his sons Shedeur and Shilo Sanders, as well as star player Travis Hunter, at the collegiate level for the final time. Sanders admitted he tried not to think about the magnitude of the moment, but the reality was unavoidable.

“I tried to shy away from it, but this is it,” Sanders said. “It will be emotional. I know Travis will trigger me – he always does. But I’m proud of her. They are ready for the next chapter.”

Sitake faces a similar farewell as BYU bids farewell to a graduating class that helped the program transition from independence to the Big 12. “They have done so much for this program,” Sitake said. “We want to send them on the right path.”

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The bigger picture for the Big 12

Beyond the personal narratives, the Alamo Bowl represents something bigger for both programs. Colorado and BYU are looking to solidify their spots in the Big 12 hierarchy and build momentum for next season. A win in this bowl game would not only validate each team’s progress, but also serve as a recruiting tool and a morale boost for the fan base.

For Sanders, this game is another milestone in his mission to make Colorado a national contender. For Sitake, it’s an opportunity to strengthen BYU’s competitiveness in the Big 12. Both coaches emphasized that while the result counts, the experience and growth gained from playing in a game like this is invaluable.

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At its core, the Alamo Bowl is a celebration of what makes college football special. Two programs led by charismatic and respected head coaches will take the field not out of obligation, but out of a desire to compete, grow and honor the game they love. Sanders and Sitake’s shared appreciation for the sport — and for each other — reflects a sportsmanship that is increasingly rare in modern athletics.

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As teams prepare to face off, the Alamo Bowl promises not only an exciting game, but also a reminder of the camaraderie and respect that can exist even at the highest level of competition. Whether it’s the parade on the Riverwalk, the moments shared at SeaWorld or the mutual admiration between two head coaches, this bowl game goes beyond the typical postseason matchup.

When the final whistle blows, one team will emerge victorious, but the respect and friendship between Sanders and Sitake – and the memories made during Alamo Bowl week – will last far beyond the outcome on the field. The Buffaloes and Cougars battle for Big 12 supremacy on Saturday at 7:30 p.m. ET on ABC.