The foundation noted that Sanders had an "unavoidable last-minute scheduling change" and Magic Johnson would replace him. 

Despite the setbacks, Sanders assured of his return saying, "I'm coming back." 

Coach Prime has transformed CU's football program since joining in 2023. 

As CBN News reported, the 57-year-old is a dedicated believer and when he took over the program he put his faith on full display. 

During an introductory press conference before the 2023 season commemorating his position as new head at UC, Sanders praised God.

"Out of all the persons in the world, God chose me," Sanders said. "For that, I thank Him; for that, I love Him; for that, I magnify Him; for that, I glorify Him; for that, I praise Him; for that, I owe Him. Each and every day, I'm trying to please Him."

Since then, he has made it a point to incorporate faith-based practices into his coaching.

Recently, Hollywood star and newly licensed minister Denzel Washington spoke to the team a few days into spring training.

"Don't rely on it for your happiness. Rely on the Almighty. Do not rely on this world for your happiness, because it'll tell you Tuesday that they love you, and Wednesday that they hate you. Probably said that about your team. It's not consistent," Washington told the team, as documented by The Pregame Network. 

It was a bold move for Coach Prime as he recently came under fire from the Freedom From Religion Foundation.

The Wisconsin-based secular activist group took issue with Sanders' decision to invite chaplain Pastor E. Dewey Smith to speak to the football team and offer a prayer after a win against Baylor University last year.

The CU head football coach said in response "God has always been my rock and my salvation...I'm going to glorify the Lord."

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