Several prominent college football programs have opted not to hold traditional spring games this season. Among them are Texas, Nebraska, and Oklahoma, each choosing alternative formats or forgoing the event altogether. On Monday, the Oklahoma Sooners became the latest team to make this decision, opting instead to host a fan day rather than a traditional spring game.
However, the Michigan Wolverines are taking a different approach. Head coach Sherrone Moore confirmed to Pete Nakos of On3 Sports that Michigan will proceed with its annual spring game, emphasizing its importance for player development and fan engagement.
“I want to keep our spring game, and it’s just going to depend on circumstances how we can get it done,” Moore explained. “It’s an opportunity for our players, especially the guys that don’t get to play on those Saturdays, to be in front of a crowd and be in front of people.”
The spring game offers younger and less experienced players a platform to showcase their skills in a competitive atmosphere, preparing them for the upcoming season. Michigan’s commitment to holding the game aligns with its emphasis on player development and maintaining fan excitement.
One of the primary concerns cited by programs choosing to cancel their spring games is player tampering. Nebraska head coach Matt Rhule specifically pointed to tampering as a significant factor in the decision, suggesting that open showcases like spring games could expose players to recruitment efforts from other programs.
Moore, however, remains unconcerned about this issue. “People are going to poach your players,” he stated. “People are going to do that regardless. People shop players. I don’t think the spring game is going to make a big difference in whether your guys get poached or not.” His comments suggest that he believes player retention relies more on program culture and relationships than on limiting public exposure.
One major storyline surrounding Michigan’s spring game is the arrival of five-star quarterback Bryce Underwood. As one of the nation’s top recruits, Underwood’s participation will be highly anticipated, giving fans their first glimpse of a player expected to have a significant impact on the program.
For now, Michigan is moving forward with its “Maize vs. Blue” spring game, scheduled for Saturday, April 19, at Michigan Stadium. While other programs adjust their approach, the Wolverines are staying true to tradition, prioritizing both player development and fan engagement as they prepare for the upcoming season.
