The Texas Longhorns have announced that they will no longer be hosting a spring game, a decision that has sent shockwaves throughout the college football community. This move is part of a growing trend, with several major colleges, including USC and Ohio State, also ditching their spring games in favor of NFL-style OTAs (organized team activities).
According to reports, the decision to cancel the spring game was made by Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian, who believes that the team can better utilize the time and resources to focus on more intense and productive practices. The traditional spring game, which was typically held at the end of spring practice, will be replaced by a series of closed-door practices and scrimmages.
The move has been met with mixed reactions from fans and alumni, with some expressing disappointment and others seeing it as a positive step towards improving the team's performance. The spring game was a beloved tradition that allowed fans to get a glimpse of the team's progress and upcoming talent, but it also came with its drawbacks, including the risk of injury to key players.
The trend of canceling spring games is not unique to Texas, as several other major colleges have also made the decision to opt out. USC, for example, has announced that it will no longer be hosting a spring game, citing the need to focus on more intense and competitive practices. Ohio State has also followed suit, with head coach Ryan Day stating that the team will be using the time to focus on individual development and team building.
The move towards NFL-style OTAs is seen as a way for college teams to better prepare their players for the next level, while also reducing the risk of injury and improving overall team performance. By focusing on more intense and productive practices, teams can better evaluate their players and make more informed decisions about their roster and lineup.
While the decision to cancel the spring game may be disappointing for some fans, it is clear that the trend is here to stay. As college football continues to evolve and become more competitive, teams are looking for any advantage they can get, and the move towards NFL-style OTAs is seen as a key part of that strategy.