The Cornhuskers’ decision to cancel their spring game seems to have started the newest trend in college football. With concerns about the transfer portal, head coach Matt Rhule made it clear he doesn’t want to showcase his roster for other programs to poach. And, let’s be honest, CU fans know all too well how much movement happens in today’s college football landscape.
But does that mean Coach Prime should consider doing the same? Absolutely not.
For Colorado, the annual Black and Gold Day isn’t just about getting a first look at the team—it’s a full-on event. Last year, Folsom Field was packed with fans eager to see the new-look Buffs, and with head coach Deion Sanders at the helm, there’s no reason to believe this year will be any different. The spring game is a chance to build excitement, engage recruits, and give Buffs Nation a taste of what’s to come in the fall.
More importantly, Coach Prime thrives in the spotlight. Whether it’s through social media, televised games, or high-profile recruiting, visibility is key to his strategy. Canceling the spring game would go against everything he’s built since arriving in Boulder.
Nebraska’s decision is understandable given the sheer number of players they’ve lost to the portal (27 compared to CU’s 19). Rhule’s concern about showcasing new talent for poachers is valid, but Colorado operates differently. The Buffs have been one of the most aggressive teams in the transfer market. The program isn’t worried about losing guys since they are constantly reloading.
Coach Prime has made it clear that competition is king, and a spring game gives players the opportunity to prove themselves in a real-game setting. If you’re afraid of players leaving because of one scrimmage, you probably weren’t going to keep them anyway.
Canceling Colorado’s spring game would be a mistake. Folsom Field should be rocking on April 19, and Buffs fans deserve a first look at the 2025 squad. While Nebraska is choosing to avoid the transfer spotlight, CU is embracing it. That’s the Prime way, and so far, it’s works.