In a move that has sent ripples through the college football world, the Oklahoma Sooners have dramatically pivoted from their traditional spring scrimmage, opting instead for a novel “Crimson Combine” experience. This decision, mirroring a growing trend among powerhouse programs, marks a significant shift in how teams engage with fans during the crucial spring training period.
Just a mere three years ago, the Sooner faithful shattered attendance records, packing the stadium with a staggering 75,360 fans for the spring game, a testament to the fervent passion surrounding the program. That record-breaking turnout, fueled by the arrival of Brent Venables and the departure of Lincoln Riley, now stands in stark contrast to the team’s current approach.
The official announcement, released by the university, details the “Crimson Combine” as an innovative fan engagement event, promising “a unique opportunity to engage with players and coaches.” This departure from the traditional Red/White Game signals a strategic shift towards a more interactive and accessible experience for Sooner Nation.
Brent Venables, now navigating his third season as head coach, has chosen to prioritize a fan-focused exhibition over a full-fledged scrimmage. This decision comes after a mixed record of 6-7 in two of his three seasons, prompting a reevaluation of the team’s spring engagement strategy.
The “Crimson Combine” will feature players and coaches participating in combine-style drills, skill challenges, and on-field fan engagement activities, along with autograph and photo opportunities. Fans can also anticipate hearing from key staff members, including new general manager Jim Nagy and offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle, adding an element of insider access to the event.
Athletic director Joe Castiglione emphasized the novelty of this approach, stating, “This is a brand-new spring football tradition for our fans.” He highlighted the event’s focus on showcasing players while providing fans with unprecedented access and interaction with the team and coaching staff.
Behind the scenes, college football coaches are increasingly wary of the potential drawbacks of traditional spring scrimmages. Concerns about media exposure leading to transfer portal poaching and the risk of injuries to valuable players are driving this trend.
The financial implications of player injuries, especially in the NIL era and with revenue sharing on the horizon, have further heightened these concerns.
Oklahoma’s decision aligns with a growing movement among top programs, including Nebraska, Ohio State, Alabama, and Texas, who have also opted for alternative spring engagement formats. This trend reflects a broader shift in how teams balance fan interaction with player safety and strategic considerations.
The “Crimson Combine” is scheduled for Saturday, April 12, as originally planned, and will serve as the centerpiece of Varsity O’s Sooners For Life Spring Weekend, an event dedicated to celebrating former OU student-athletes. This weekend will also include a golf tournament, evening reception, and a Varsity O Tailgate.
This change signals a new era for Oklahoma’s spring football activities, prioritizing fan engagement and player safety in a rapidly evolving college football landscape.
The “Crimson Combine” promises to be an exciting and interactive experience, offering Sooner Nation a fresh and unique way to connect with their beloved team.