Carter Stoutmire has familial ties to Coach Prime that predates his time with the Buffs. When he received the news of Sanders' cancer, it wasn't taken lightly

To Colorado defensive back Carter Stoutmire, Deion Sanders is more than just a coach. He’s like an uncle who’s been in his life since pretty much the day he was born. So hearing his coach’s booming voice back in meetings and seeing his coach’s swagger at camp,

Colorado defensive coordinator Robert Livingston said his initial reaction to learning of Deion Sanders' cancer battle was one of fear, not for the future of the Buffaloes, but for the coach's life.