Well, the Nebraska Cornhuskers HC Matt Rhule might still be figuring out how the 2024 season ended for them. It has been an absolute ‘turntables’ kind of situation. After all, they were the ones to dominate other programs. Even QB Dylan Raiola‘s solid moves couldn’t save the Huskers from drowning. They ended the 2024 season on a low note, 7-6. However, the time has come for them to get back their lost glitz and glamor. After all, it’s the spring games, folks! But looks like a bold decision from Rhule and Co. is on its way. So are they walking on the Big 12 path? 

If you are a true Huskers fan, you must be aware of what the value of spring game means to the scarlet army. While the spring game is essentially a glorified, outdoor scrimmage, it means so much more than that to the fans. After all, this game opens the door to their favorite Memorial Stadium, and watch the game in enjoyable weather. But Rhule and co. are likely to break free of that good ol’ traditions. Maybe they feel like it’s time to be practical and not let the sentiments rule over you. And here comes the bad news for the Huskers fans. On the Wilson Dittman Sports podcast, the host addressed the elephant in the room.   

“It was reported yesterday that Central Florida is getting rid of their traditional spring football game but they’re probably going to open up some practice and scrimmages to the fans…Nebraska will likely be next,” the host had to speak out the harsh words. So what’s Rhule’s plan this time? Adam Krueger with KMTV News in Lincoln reported that instead of a full spring game, there will be a ‘fall sports preview’ on Saturday, April 26th. Well, we don’t have the exact update on whether Rhule’s program would say goodbye to the spring game, but we can speculate from the traditions over the years. 

The host shed light on the fact, “Huskers have not set a date for their 2025 spring game you know in the past they’ve usually finalized date by December by November by early January. This is the latest they’ve ever took it.” But what went behind taking this bold move? Plain and simple, to protect the players from getting lured away. After all, the spring games give the players a platform to showcase themselves since there are cameras and media everywhere. 

The reality is, “If you have a young freshman who might not be getting as much playing time as he deserves and he’s already disgruntled and he goes and balls out in the spring game. And he hears calls from a bunch of different college football programs that they want him to transfer over.” Well, after struggling with Raiola and finally managing to keep him, Rhule can take no more risk. So, allowing fans to buy a $20 or $25 ticket to watch the practice that would not be televised sounds like a better option. Interestingly, the Big 12 too thinks it to be great that way.

Uncertainty about spring games looms in the Big 12

Just like Rhule’s army, the spring games hold a special place in the hearts of the UCF Knights fans. Back in 2024, it was the Knights versus the ‘Nauts again. They played two 12-minute quarters and scored points in various skill challenges. Not to forget, how the program has developed a history of doing unique uniform-related things for the Spring game. Thanks to their HC Gus Malzahn. 

Back in 2021, the Knights had their social media handles on the back of their jerseys, the next year had QR codes. There are many contests like who can throw the farthest, and who can run the fastest 40-yard dash. In this way, this has been a visual treat for the fans. Here comes the bad news for them too. The program won’t host a traditional spring football game this season. 

As reported by Orlando Sentinel, the athletics director Terry Mohajir said, “There’s not going to be a spring game as we know it. There’ll be some scrimmages that will be open to the public. We may give our fans more of an opportunity to see more practices.” But unlike Matt Rhule and the Hukers, Mohajir believes that not having a typical spring game won’t prevent players from entering the transfer portal. Thanks to the NIL. For example, players like Jeremiah Smith and Carnell Tate already have offers worth millions on their tables. Let’s see if Nebraska can lock their players by keeping them at a safe distance.