The Colorado Buffaloes football program is entering the new season with a heavy yet determined heart following the sudden death of quarterback Dominiq Ponder, who died in a tragic car accident on March 1 in Boulder, Colorado.
The 23-year-old was killed early Sunday morning when he lost control of his 2023 Tesla on Baseline Road. The vehicle went through a guardrail, struck a power pole, rolled down an embankment, and caught fire. Authorities believe speed may have contributed to the crash, which has left the team and community in shock.
Offensive coordinator Brennan Marion described receiving the news from Ponder‘s father as surreal, a moment that underscored the suddenness of the loss. Ponder‘s passing came just as spring practice was about to begin, intensifying the grief for his teammates and coaches, who had to immediately confront life without one of their own.
Deion “Coach Prime” Sanders personally broke the news to the team, calling Ponder a “born leader” and one of his favorite players, praising his positivity and unwavering work ethic.
Team’s commitment to remembering “Dom”
In a gesture of remembrance, Sanders announced that the Buffaloes will wear a tribute patch throughout the 2026 season. The design, chosen collectively by the players, will serve as a daily reminder of Ponder‘s impact on and off the field.
In a recorded team meeting, Sanders presented three options: a lowercase “dom,” an uppercase “DOM,” and “DP 7,” representing Ponder‘s initials and jersey number.
“It’s going to be what you guys want,” Sanders told the team, emphasizing the player-led decision.
Even at their first practice since his passing, the Buffaloes honored Ponder by chanting his name after every huddle, showing the depth of his presence in the locker room.
Teammates recounted his dedication: he would be the first in the quarterback room before sunrise, often performing small acts of kindness like helping teammates access rehab facilities or encouraging younger players. His commitment to the team culture made him beloved on and off the field.
Ponder‘s journey to Boulder was unconventional. Originally from Opa Locka, Florida, he was a three-star recruit who briefly attended Gainesville before transferring to Bethune-Cookman and then Georgia Tech, ultimately joining the Buffaloes last season.
His time in Boulder, though brief, was marked by leadership and camaraderie that left an enduring impact on Coach Sanders and the entire program.
The university is providing counseling support for players and staff to navigate the emotional aftermath. While Ponder‘s life was tragically cut short, the tribute patch and the stories shared by his teammates ensure that his legacy will inspire the Buffaloes throughout the season.