Coach Prime has never been afraid to challenge convention. So maybe we shouldn’t be shocked that heading into his third season in Boulder, many are wondering if he would dare flirt with something that almost never works in modern college football—a two-quarterback system.
The battle between Liberty transfer Kaidon Salter and true freshman phenom Julian “JuJu” Lewis has been the biggest talking point of Colorado’s offseason. And now, according to a new report from Harrison Simeon via Buffs On SI, some experts believe both quarterbacks may see the field in 2025.
Let’s unpack what that could look like—and whether it makes sense for the Buffs.
Two talents, one problem
Let’s start with the obvious: Salter has experience. The grad transfer from Liberty put up big numbers last season (44 total TDs) and brings mobility, toughness, and leadership into a Colorado QB room that just lost one of the best statistical passers in school history.
But JuJu Lewis isn’t your average freshman. The five-star, former USC commit has been compared to Shedeur Sanders since the moment he flipped to Colorado, and some insiders think he’s already ahead of schedule.
According to analyst Smoke Dixon of 247Sports, Lewis has “elite quarterback acumen” and even earned first-team reps in Colorado’s spring game.
So what does Deion Sanders do? Start the proven veteran or unleash the future star right away?
According to Dixon, the answer might be both.
“I think this is going to be a tandem role,” he said on 247Sports’ Ultimate College Football Show. “You can’t leave a four-star talented player like JuJu Lewis on the sideline all season, and you can’t play Kaidon [Salter] all year, just because I think he’s going to get banged up.”
Why it could work
There are reasons to at least consider this.
For one, Salter is a known runner. He thrives off-script, which makes him dangerous—but also prone to hits. Behind a CU offensive line that’s still proving itself, that could be a concern. Adding Lewis to the rotation not only limits wear on Salter, but gives defenses a different look.
More importantly, the styles of both QBs are distinct. Salter is dynamic in the run game. Lewis is composed and comfortable in the pocket. Having both allows offensive coordinator Pat Shurmur to design two packages—each maximizing a different strength.
Dixon believes that’s the plan.
“Coach Shurmur… is going to dial back a little bit less of the five-man protection, he's going to put more of a six-man protection,” Dixon said. “He’s going to tailor this to protect both quarterbacks.”
It’s a bold idea, but there’s logic behind it. Lewis gets valuable game reps without the pressure of starting every down. Salter gets a breather and avoids being a one-man offense like Shedeur was in 2024.
Here’s the risk
There’s a reason most programs don’t run two-quarterback systems: they rarely work.
Rotating signal-callers can hurt offensive rhythm, divide a locker room, and create unnecessary tension. Coaches often talk about “trusting the guy” under center—and switching that guy mid-drive? Not ideal.
Then there’s the development piece. Lewis is the future of the program. He needs reps, confidence, and control of the offense. Constantly looking over his shoulder could stunt his growth.
And for Salter? This is his final shot to prove he’s NFL material. Splitting time might hurt his rhythm and visibility to scouts.
Coach Prime may be confident in his ability to manage personalities—but that’s a delicate balancing act, even for him.
So who should start?
If the Buffs were opening the season against Northern Colorado or UMass, the answer might be different. But they’re not.
Colorado opens 2025 against Georgia Tech, then faces a tough Big 12 gauntlet with road trips to Kansas State, TCU, and Arizona State.
This team needs someone who’s been there. And as of now, that’s Salter.
But let’s not kid ourselves, with the risk of a possible transfer, Lewis isn’t going to sit for long. He’s too good, too talented, and too important to this program’s future. If Salter struggles or takes too many hits, the leash will be short.
A two-quarterback system isn’t the long-term answer—but it might be a short-term solution.
Coach Prime has preached competition since Day 1. Don’t be surprised if both of these guys see the field early.
—
Want more stories like this? Follow us on X for all things Colorado football and Basketball.