Colorado Remembers Sophomore QB Dominiq Ponder After Tragic Death

Offensive coordinator Brennan Marion vows to honor Ponder's memory in the quarterback room.

Mar. 2, 2026 at 7:23pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Colorado is mourning the death of 23-year-old sophomore quarterback Dominiq Ponder, who died in a single-car crash early Sunday morning. Offensive coordinator Brennan Marion was visibly emotional as he vowed to keep Ponder's memory alive by saving a spot for him in the quarterback room.

Why it matters

Ponder's death has devastated the Colorado football community, with head coach Deion Sanders and others expressing heartfelt condolences. The tragedy has raised questions about the circumstances surrounding the crash and the impact it will have on the team as they move forward.

The details

According to the Colorado State Patrol, Ponder was driving a 2023 Tesla Model 3 around 3 a.m. Sunday on Baseline Road near Newland Court in Boulder County. He lost control on a right-hand curve in the road while traveling westbound, went across the eastbound lane, hit a guardrail, and then struck an electrical line pole before rolling down an embankment. The car landed on its wheels and caught fire, and Ponder was pronounced dead at the scene. Preliminary investigation indicates that speed is suspected as a factor in the crash.

  • Ponder died in the early morning hours of Sunday, March 2, 2026.
  • Head coach Deion Sanders confirmed Ponder's death on social media on Sunday.
  • Offensive coordinator Brennan Marion spoke about honoring Ponder on Monday, March 3, 2026.

The players

Dominiq Ponder

A 23-year-old sophomore quarterback for the Colorado Buffaloes who tragically died in a single-car crash.

Brennan Marion

The offensive coordinator for the Colorado Buffaloes who vowed to honor Ponder's memory in the quarterback room.

Deion Sanders

The head coach of the Colorado Buffaloes who was one of the first to express condolences following Ponder's death.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“You know, I just, you know, you see somebody every day, every morning... We meet every day at 5:30, 5 o'clock... so we'll just save a spot for him in the room.”

— Brennan Marion, Offensive Coordinator, Colorado Buffaloes

What’s next

The Colorado State Patrol's Vehicular Crimes Unit is leading an investigation into the crash, and more details are expected to emerge as they work to determine the exact cause.

The takeaway

Ponder's tragic death has left the Colorado football community devastated, but they are committed to honoring his memory and keeping his spirit alive within the program. This heartbreaking loss serves as a somber reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing each moment with loved ones.