Deion Sanders Hints at QB1 Decision Between Julian Lewis, Isaac Wilson for Colorado vs. Texas Tech

Colorado head coach Deion Sanders didn't commit to a starting quarterback between Julian Lewis and Isaac Wilson for the upcoming game against Texas Tech, but he may have hinted at the answer Tuesday.

"I haven't talked to JuJu," Sanders told reporters. "I talked to Isaac. The kid is excited about the possibilities. … He stood up in a meeting and really talked to the team about this and that challenged them in many ways. So I'm proud of that young man. I really am."

Lewis started the first four games of the season but was replaced by Wilson during Saturday's loss to Baylor.

Wilson provided a spark and went 12-of-25 for 156 yards, one touchdown and zero interceptions, although it wasn't enough in the 23-13 defeat. His touchdown pass in the fourth quarter tied the game, but the Bears scored the final 10 points to give the Buffaloes a second straight loss.

It was also a disappointing development for Lewis after he struggled during the 41-7 blowout loss to Northwestern the previous game.

He was 19-of-29 for 168 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions against the Wildcats in a defeat that ended any momentum on Colorado's side following season-opening wins over Georgia Tech and Weber State.

There was no shortage of expectations surrounding Lewis as a highly regarded 4-star prospect in the recruiting class of 2025, per 247Sports. 

He started last season behind Kaidon Salter but combined for three touchdown passes and zero interceptions in two late-season games against West Virginia and Arizona State. With that as the backdrop, it was reasonable to expect Lewis to take a leap in 2026.

However, it hasn't happened yet, and his starting role could be in jeopardy.