BOULDER, Colo. (AP) 鈥� Colorado quarterback Dominiq Ponder died early Sunday morning in a single-car crash, police said. He was 23.
Ponder was driving a 2023 Tesla when he lost control on a curve and hit a guardrail, according to the Colorado State Patrol. The car struck an electrical line pole and rolled down an embankment.
Ponder was pronounced dead at the scene in Boulder County. Police said a preliminary investigation 鈥渟hows that speed is suspected as a factor.鈥�
Ponder played in two games for the Buffaloes last season, going 0-for-1 passing and carrying the ball twice for a loss of 4 yards. The 6-foot-5 sophomore from Opa Locka, Florida, began his collegiate career at Bethune-Cookman before transferring.
The Buffs were slated to begin spring practice on Monday.
鈥淕od please comfort the Ponder family, friends & Loved ones,鈥� Colorado coach Deion Sanders . 鈥淒om was one of my favorites! He was Loved, Respected & a Born Leader. Let鈥檚 pray for all that knew him & had the opportunity to be in his presence. Lord you鈥檙e receiving a good 1.鈥�
Colorado offensive coordinator Brennan Marion reposted Sanders’ statement and called Ponder a joy to be around and coach.
鈥淕etting that call from his dad today didn鈥檛 feel real,鈥� Marion . 鈥淟ove you Dom! God cover his family & our team, especially our qb room!鈥�
Colorado athletic director Fernando Lovo said Ponder 鈥渆pitomized the values of passion, enthusiasm, leadership, toughness, and intelligence that were revered by his teammates and coaches alike.鈥� The athletic department said it would make counseling resources available to players and staff.
Fellow Colorado quarterback Colton Allen also paid tribute to Ponder .
鈥淒om, you were a blessing to so many people,鈥� Allen wrote. 鈥淵ou had a presence about you that just made everything better. You brought so much joy to me and everyone around you. I鈥檓 grateful for every lift, every practice, every rep, every conversation we got to share. I鈥檒l carry those with me for the rest of my life.鈥�
The Big 12 Conference extended its condolences .
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