Deion Sanders prays in tongues after Colorado’s 52-21 win over Weber State
Colorado head football coach Deion Sanders appeared to speak in tongues at the post‑game press conference on Tuesday after the Buffaloes’ 52‑21 win over Weber State at Folsom Field in Boulder.
Sanders, 59, opened the conference with about ten unintelligible words before saying “let’s go” and fielding questions, prompting social‑media users to wonder what he was doing.
He explained that he had just delivered a stern address to his players and was still upset about their performance despite the decisive victory. “I had just come from addressing the team, and I lit them up, so I had to calm down,” he said. “The only way I know how to calm down is to pray in the spirit.”
Sanders emphasized that the moment was not a gimmick. “It’s not a look‑at‑me stunt,” he added. “I love the Lord with all my heart, and I’m not scared to speak it in front of anybody, anywhere, at any time.” He noted that he has used the practice in other stressful situations, including before surgery.
The brief prayer quickly spread online, igniting a debate among Christians about whether public speaking in tongues aligns with biblical teaching. Evangelical commentator Jon Root labeled the display “nonsensical babbling” and “not biblical at all,” while other believers defended the practice, citing passages in First Corinthians that describe speaking in tongues as a personal edifying prayer.
Sanders’ faith has long been a visible part of his public persona. He turned to Christianity after a 1997 suicide attempt and has spoken openly about relying on prayer during a 2021 health crisis involving blood clots in his leg. In that period, he recalled spending nights speaking in tongues while fearing possible amputation.
The incident arrives as Colorado begins its season with a 2‑0 record, following a 14‑13 win over Georgia Tech. Sanders, now in his fourth year with the Buffaloes, continues to draw national attention for both his coaching results and his outspoken religious convictions.
As the season progresses, observers will watch how Sanders balances his charismatic leadership style with the scrutiny that comes from high‑profile moments like the post‑game prayer.