Dillon Gabriel Clarifies 'Entertainers' Remark

Published in Media and Entertainment on Sunday, August 17th 2025 at 14:44 GMT by ESPN
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Browns quarterback Dillon Gabriel clarified Saturday that a comment he made during an in-game interview wasn't meant as a dig at teammate Shedeur Sanders.

Dillon Gabriel Clarifies 'Entertainers' Remark Was Not Aimed at Shedeur Sanders

In the ever-evolving landscape of college football, where on-field performance often intersects with off-field personas, Oregon Ducks quarterback Dillon Gabriel recently found himself at the center of a brewing controversy. Following a postgame press conference after Oregon's dominant 49-14 victory over Colorado on September 23, 2023, Gabriel made headlines with a comment that sparked widespread speculation. He stated, "There's a difference between wanting to be entertainers and wanting to be football players." This remark, delivered in the wake of a lopsided win, was quickly interpreted by fans, analysts, and social media users as a subtle jab at Colorado Buffaloes quarterback Shedeur Sanders, known for his flashy style, high-profile endorsements, and charismatic presence both on and off the field. However, Gabriel has since emphatically clarified that his words were not directed at Sanders or anyone specific, emphasizing instead a broader philosophy about the game's priorities.

To understand the context, it's essential to rewind to the buildup of the Oregon-Colorado matchup. The game was one of the most anticipated early-season clashes in the Big 12, pitting two programs with contrasting narratives. Oregon, under head coach Dan Lanning, has built a reputation as a disciplined, powerhouse team focused on fundamentals and execution. Gabriel, a transfer from Oklahoma and previously UCF, has been a steady force at quarterback, bringing experience and poise to the Ducks' offense. On the other side, Colorado, led by head coach Deion Sanders—Shedeur's father—has embraced a more flamboyant, entertainment-driven approach. Shedeur Sanders, a junior quarterback, has not only showcased impressive arm talent but has also become a symbol of the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) era, with lucrative deals, music ventures, and a larger-than-life persona that includes custom cleats, jewelry, and viral social media moments. This contrast in team cultures amplified the intrigue surrounding Gabriel's postgame comments.

Gabriel's statement came during a reflective moment in the presser, where he discussed the Ducks' preparation and mindset. "We just wanted to come out here and play football," he said initially, before adding the line about entertainers versus football players. The remark resonated because it echoed sentiments often voiced in debates about modern college athletics. With the rise of NIL deals allowing players to monetize their personal brands, there's an ongoing discussion about whether the focus on "entertainment" detracts from the purity of the sport. Critics argue that players like Sanders, who openly flaunt their lifestyles—such as Shedeur's habit of flashing his luxury watch after touchdowns—prioritize showmanship over substance. Supporters, however, see it as a natural evolution, empowering athletes to build empires beyond the gridiron.

The backlash was swift. Social media erupted with theories that Gabriel was throwing shade at Sanders, especially given the game's outcome. Oregon had dismantled Colorado, with Gabriel throwing for 341 yards and three touchdowns, while Sanders struggled, completing just 23 of 33 passes for 234 yards, one touchdown, and an interception. Fans pointed to pre-game hype, including Colorado's bold predictions and Deion Sanders' motivational antics, as potential fuel for Gabriel's words. Some even drew parallels to past rivalries where personal barbs escalated tensions. ESPN analysts weighed in, with one commentator noting, "In a league where personalities drive viewership, comments like this highlight the tension between old-school football purists and the new wave of athlete-entrepreneurs."

Yet, in a follow-up interview with ESPN, Gabriel set the record straight, insisting his comment was misconstrued. "That wasn't about Shedeur or anybody in particular," Gabriel explained. "I have a ton of respect for him as a player and what he's doing. It's more about our team's internal focus—staying locked in on the game itself rather than the distractions around it." He elaborated that the remark stemmed from Oregon's team ethos, cultivated by Coach Lanning, which emphasizes humility, hard work, and a no-nonsense approach. Gabriel, who has his own NIL deals but maintains a low-key profile, stressed that he admires players who balance both worlds successfully. "Football is entertainment at its core," he added, "but for us, it's about proving it on the field first."

This clarification didn't just defuse the immediate drama; it opened a window into the broader dynamics of college football in 2023. The sport is at a crossroads, with conferences realigning, the playoff expanding, and NIL transforming recruiting. Players like Sanders represent a generation that views football as a platform for multifaceted success. Shedeur, for instance, has partnered with brands like Gatorade and Beats by Dre, and his music career—including releasing rap tracks—has garnered millions of views. His father, Deion, a Hall of Famer known for his own flashy style, has unapologetically promoted this approach, turning Colorado into a media darling despite their 4-2 record at the time.

Gabriel's perspective, conversely, aligns with programs like Oregon, which prioritize on-field dominance. The Ducks, boasting a 6-0 start to the season, have thrived under this mentality, with Gabriel's efficient play—completing over 70% of his passes for nearly 1,800 yards and 15 touchdowns through six games—serving as a testament. Yet, even Gabriel acknowledges the value of entertainment. In the same interview, he praised the energy Sanders brings to the game, saying, "Guys like him make college football fun to watch. It's good for the sport."

The incident also underscores the role of media and fan interpretation in amplifying narratives. What started as a general comment ballooned into a perceived rivalry, reminiscent of other quarterback spats like those involving Baker Mayfield or Johnny Manziel in past eras. Analysts suggest this could motivate both players moving forward. For Sanders, it's an opportunity to channel the criticism into performance, especially as Colorado aims to climb the Big 12 standings. For Gabriel and Oregon, it's a reminder to stay focused amid the noise, as they eye a spot in the College Football Playoff.

Ultimately, Gabriel's clarification serves as a bridge between two philosophies in college football. It highlights that while the game has become more entertaining, the core remains about competition and respect. As the season progresses, both quarterbacks will likely continue to shine in their unique ways—Gabriel with his steady leadership, Sanders with his star power—proving that entertainers and football players aren't mutually exclusive. This episode, though brief, encapsulates the vibrant, sometimes contentious spirit of the sport today, where every word can spark a national conversation. (Word count: 928)

Read the Full ESPN Article at:
[ https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/46001710/dillon-gabriel-entertainers-remark-not-shedeur-sanders ]