OU football to replace spring game with new Crimson Combine

NORMAN — Every spring, OU football displays its football team in an annual exhibition for diehard fans to catch their first glimpse months before kickoff in the fall.

This year, the Sooners will not host a traditional spring game, opting for a fan day where players and coaching staff members will participate in combine-style drills, skill challenges, on-field fan engagement activities, autograph and photo opportunities and more, the program announced on Monday.

The decision comes as other major programs are adapting to the ever-changing landscape of college athletics. Mississippi and coach Lane Kiffin paved the way last season, hosting a dunk contest, 7-on-7, tug-of-war and a hotdog eating contest instead of a traditional game.

Texas coach Steve Sarkisian announced last month the Longhorns won’t hold a spring game either.

Several Big Ten programs including Nebraska, Ohio State and USC are also canceling spring games. Earlier this offseason, Cornhuskers coach Matt Rhule mentioned tampering as a reason his team wouldn’t be hosting a spring game.

The newly coined Crimson Combine will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, April 12 at Gaylord Family — Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. New general manager Jim Nagy and offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle will address fans at the event, per the release.

“This is a brand-new spring football tradition for our fans,” Sooners athletic director Joe Castiglione said in a statement. “Crimson Combine will spotlight our players while also giving our fans the ability to get closer to the action and have the chance to engage directly with our team and coaching staff. We’re planning some unique activities that will highlight our players and provide high entertainment value for everyone in attendance.”