The NCAA has again rejected a proposal for a joint spring scrimmage between Colorado and Syracuse, marking the second consecutive year the request has been denied.
Colorado coach Deion Sanders and Syracuse coach Fran Brown again tried to get the NCAA's permission to conduct joint spring football practices after getting denied in 2025. The NCAA denied their new request for 2026, but changes could be coming. https://t.co/vWvKSq2INs
— Brent Schrotenboer (@Schrotenboer) February 18, 2026
At its core, the concept envisioned NFL-style joint practice culminating into a spring game. An idea that would bring a distinct new dimension to the college game while garnering anticipation and enthusiasm for players and fans alike.
Under existing legislation, FBS programs are prohibited from conducting practices or scrimmages against other four-year institutions within the spring window.
Some officials are also worried that granting both teams this opportunity would put other Division I programs at an unfair competitive and recruiting disadvantage.
Although the proposal was denied for the second time, the NCAA indicated it may revisit legislation in the future to allow all institutions to hold joint spring practices.
They also don't seem happy about student-athletes skipping class for travel and competitions, especially when it's for practices or games that don't really matter.
After mirror-image 3-9 seasons, Deion Sanders and Fran Brown are turning the page on a forgettable year and entering 2026 with something to prove.
Syracuse has scheduled its spring game for April 11. Colorado hasn't officially announced a date for theirs, though the Buffaloes are set to begin spring practices on March 2.
With everything NIL and brand deals have already changed in college football, it's honestly difficult to see how something like this doesn't eventually get approved.