He previously played college football for the Oklahoma State Cowboys and Ole Miss Rebels.

[5] After competing with Dru Brown throughout spring practice and summer training camp, Sanders was named the Cowboys starting quarterback just before the season opener.

[9] The following game against Kansas Sanders suffered a torn ligament in his throwing hand, ending his redshirt freshman season.

[14] Sanders was named the MVP of the 2020 Cheez-It Bowl after passing for 305 yards and four touchdowns in a 37–34 win against the Miami Hurricanes.

[15] Sanders missed the opener of his redshirt junior season against Missouri State after he tested positive for COVID-19.