Former Buffs Assistant Takes Aim: Gary 'Flea' Harrell Fires Shot at Colorado from Wyoming Sidelines

The college football landscape is perpetually shifting, and with it, allegiances and rivalries evolve. The latest ripple in this dynamic comes from a familiar face, Gary "Flea" Harrell, a former associate head coach and running backs coach for the Colorado Buffaloes under Deion Sanders. Having transitioned to the Wyoming Cowboys' coaching staff, Harrell recently made comments that have been widely interpreted as a subtle, yet pointed, jab at his former program.

During an appearance on Marshall Faulk’s "Big Noon Kickoff" show, Harrell painted a vivid picture of his new environment in Laramie.

"It’s a different atmosphere. You know, when you talk about Wyoming, you’re talking about blue-collar football," Harrell articulated. He elaborated, emphasizing the Cowboys’ ethos: "You’re talking about getting the guys and building them up. You’re talking about developing them." This emphasis on traditional player development and a rugged, 'blue-collar' identity stands in stark contrast to the perception of Colorado's high-profile, transfer-portal-heavy approach under Coach Prime.

Harrell’s remarks didn't stop there.

He proudly highlighted Wyoming's achievement of bowl eligibility, noting, "Now, to be here, and be bowl eligible, playing in a bowl game for the first time in my coaching career, you know, it’s a blessing." While seemingly a statement of personal accomplishment, within the context of his recent departure from Boulder, this also subtly underscored a program that, in his view, delivers tangible success through its distinct methodology.

For those familiar with the regional dynamics, Harrell's comments fan the flames of an already simmering rivalry between the Colorado Buffaloes and the Wyoming Cowboys.

Although the 'Border War' traditionally refers to the CSU-Wyoming clash, the geographical proximity and competitive spirit ensure that any slight, real or perceived, between CU and Wyoming will resonate. Harrell was a significant figure in Coach Prime's inaugural staff, instrumental in recruiting talents like running back Dylan Edwards, making his departure and subsequent remarks all the more impactful.

His move to Wyoming in December 2023 marked a new chapter, and these recent statements clearly define a philosophical divide.

Deion Sanders' tenure at Colorado has been characterized by aggressive use of the transfer portal to rapidly reshape the roster, aiming for immediate impact. Harrell's praise for Wyoming's "building up" and "developing" ethos could be seen as a direct counterpoint, subtly criticizing the perceived lack of long-term organic development at his previous stop.

As the college football season approaches, Harrell’s words add a compelling layer of narrative to the regional rivalries.

They serve as a reminder that beyond the flashy headlines and star players, different programs champion different pathways to success. And in the competitive world of college athletics, a former colleague's observation, however veiled, can speak volumes, promising an intriguing watch should these two teams ever meet on the gridiron.