Sanders Highlights Georgia Tech's Haynes as Key Threat in Season Opener
Colorado coach Deion Sanders highlighted Georgia Tech running back Justice Haynes as a key threat in the season opener. Sanders noted Haynes averaged 122 rushing yards per game last season and emphasized the need to contain him. The Buffaloes face the Yellow Jackets on Thursday.
Justice Haynes began his college career at Alabama before transferring to Michigan for the 2025 season, where he appeared in seven games. His production included a conference-leading 7.1 yards per carry and ten rushing touchdowns, plus modest receiving contributions. He has since moved to Georgia Tech, where the team's depth chart now lists him as the starting running back ahead of Malachi Hosley.
Georgia Tech's previous victory over Colorado featured quarterback Haynes King's 156 rushing yards, but King has departed. Indiana transfer Alberto Mendoza now leads the offense, and while he is considered a dual threat, the team's ground game will likely rely more heavily on Haynes. Colorado's defensive preparation centers on accounting for Haynes wherever he lines up.
This season opener could shape early momentum for both programs, with the outcome potentially influencing recruiting perceptions and early conference positioning. For Colorado, containing a proven running back may test defensive improvements under Deion Sanders. For Georgia Tech, a strong showing could validate their transfer-based roster building. Fans and analysts may view the game as an early indicator of each team's competitive ceiling, though one game alone rarely defines a season.