As college football programs gear up for a 105-man roster limit this fall, a shift towards NFL-style joint practices seems imminent. Craig Bohl, the executive director of the American Football Coaches Association, anticipates the NCAA may introduce intersquad practices and scrimmages soon.
Recently, Deion Sanders, the coach at Colorado, proposed that schools host joint practices followed by exhibition games, potentially replacing traditional intrasquad spring games. Fran Brown, the Syracuse coach, responded positively, expressing his team’s willingness to visit Colorado for a three-day prep session.
While Colorado hasn’t formally requested a waiver for these practices, discussions are underway with the NCAA and the Big 12 Conference. Bohl remarked that there is significant interest among coaches to explore intersquad practices, particularly with the new roster constraints likely solidified upon the resolution of the NCAA antitrust lawsuit.
Previously, an average FBS team roster consisted of 128 players. With the impending roster reduction, coaches explore efficient strategies to manage players’ physical tolls. Interconference intersquad practices not scheduled to compete during regular seasons could be a viable solution.
However, concerns arise over potential tampering, as players could be showcased for opposing team personnel, according to Bohl. A coach shared apprehensions about revealing player talent to rival general managers who might note players’ abilities, potentially complicating the player market.
Nebraska’s Matt Rhule canceled the Cornhuskers’ traditional spring game partly due to fears of other teams scouting his roster for transfer portal opportunities. Rhule, who has experienced joint practices with the Carolina Panthers, is open to the idea of joint practices but doubts an immediate rule change.
Mike Gundy, Oklahoma State’s coach, suggested reviving the Bedlam series against Oklahoma with spring practices if regulations allow. A yearly practice exchange could replace traditional spring games, giving both programs potential benefits from ticket revenue and enhanced exposure.
The concept aligns with the broader trend of college football adopting more NFL characteristics. Gundy elaborated on the logistics, suggesting synchronized practice schedules with Oklahoma, enhancing both teams’ preparations.