The NCAA’s decision is made in regards to the Colorado and Syracuse petition to hold joint spring practices and an exhibition game.
Third-year Buffaloes head coach Deion Sanders shared the unique idea as Colorado began the spring period earlier this month. And Fran Brown, entering his second season at the helm of the Orange, committed to the opportunity on social media.
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The two college football programs worked together to make a pitch to the NCAA, as bylaws currently prevent teams from holding intercollegiate practices and exhibition games.
Unfortunately for the parties involved, the NCAA elected to uphold those bylaws. Colorado and Syracuse will not be allowed to line up against each other this spring.
Spring games are at risk from going extinct as major programs across the country have either ditched the tradition entirely, or have notably changed the format. The idea from Sanders seemed like a breath of fresh air.
Colorado Buffaloes head coach Deion Sanders. Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images
“We got to sell this thing (spring game) out and pack this thing because the way the trend is going, you never know if this is going to be the last spring game,” Sanders said as Colorado began spring practice. “I don’t believe in that. I don’t really want to condone that. I would like to play in the spring. Actually, I (would) like to play against another team in the spring. That’s what I’m trying to do right now.”
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College football fans took to social media to make their opinions known after the decision was revealed. And the NCAA, not surprisingly, was the subject of some heated backlash.
“The no fun league,” one fan responded.
“A very common NCAA L,” one added.
“Huge L for the NCAA!!! Let them play!!!” another agreed.
“Why do something the fans would like when you can just continue to piss them off instead?” a fan wrote.
According to the NCAA’s response, concerns were raised about timing, potential recruiting advantages and academic schedules.
