Shedeur Sanders Sends a Message by Refusing Post-Game Handshake

In a heated rivalry matchup between the Colorado Buffaloes and the Colorado State Rams, quarterback Shedeur Sanders delivered not only on the field but also in the game's aftermath. After the Buffaloes’ victory, Sanders made headlines by refusing to shake hands with Rams quarterback Brayden Fowler-Nicolosi, sending a clear message to both his opponent and fans. “You were talking s--- on Instagram. Talking on Instagram. We handled our business. You can’t f--- with me," Sanders was heard saying to Fowler-Nicolosi.

Sanders’ decision wasn’t a spur-of-the-moment reaction. Leading up to the game, Fowler-Nicolosi had made several bold statements, dismissing Colorado’s success and claiming the Buffaloes were all hype driven by social media. "At the end of the day, we’ll see how far Instagram followers get them," Fowler-Nicolosi remarked. Sanders, who takes pride in his on-field performance, didn’t forget these comments, especially when Fowler-Nicolosi disrespected Travis Hunter with a “too small” gesture during the game.

Secondly, this was about earning respect, not just for himself but for the entire Colorado program. Throughout the week, the Rams had been vocal, taking jabs at the Buffaloes. By refusing to engage in a friendly post-game gesture, Shedeur made it clear that he wasn’t interested in shallow pleasantries with a rival who questioned his team’s legitimacy.

Lastly, Sanders’ refusal to shake hands was a reflection of his fiery competitiveness. In his father’s style, Shedeur brought intensity to the rivalry and showed that actions speak louder than words. He let his 310-yard, four-touchdown performance do the talking, and when it was over, he saw no need to extend a hand to someone who, in his eyes, had disrespected his team.

In the end, Shedeur Sanders’ decision wasn’t about a lack of sportsmanship; it was about standing firm in the face of disrespect. For Colorado Buffaloes fans, it was another example of Sanders backing up his talk with performance and passion, reminding everyone that respect is earned on the field, not on social media.