Alabama Announces Format for 2026 A-Day Spring Game

Crimson Tide football returns to a more traditional scrimmage format for annual spring showcase event.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 11:11pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the dynamic movements and competing forces of a college football game, rendered in a cubist style with bold crimson, white, and gray tones.A cubist interpretation of the energy and action of Alabama's annual A-Day spring football game.Tuscaloosa Today

Alabama football head coach Kalen DeBoer has shared details about the format for the program's 2026 A-Day spring game, set to take place next Saturday at Bryant-Denny Stadium. After experimenting with a modified practice format last year due to injuries, DeBoer indicated the event will return to a more recognizable offense vs. defense scrimmage this spring.

Why it matters

A-Day is a highly anticipated annual event for Alabama football fans, providing an early glimpse of the team's progress and potential ahead of the upcoming season. The format change back to a traditional scrimmage format will likely be well-received by the Crimson Tide faithful.

The details

DeBoer said the 2026 A-Day will feature an offense vs. defense scrimmage, rather than splitting the team into separate squads. The head coach noted he prefers keeping players working together rather than dividing them up. The practice is scheduled to run for two hours, with gates opening at noon CT and the scrimmage beginning at 1 p.m. CT. While open to the public, the event will not be televised this year.

  • The 2026 A-Day spring game is scheduled for next Saturday, April 12, 2026.
  • Alabama held its second spring scrimmage on Friday, April 4, 2026.

The players

Kalen DeBoer

The head coach of the Alabama Crimson Tide football team, entering his third season in charge of the program.

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What they’re saying

“It would be an offense versus defensive thing. I guess that's probably the first starting point. I don't like splitting up teams. I want guys working with guys, and taking advantage of every practice we can.”

— Kalen DeBoer, Head Coach

“A competitive scrimmage. Probably flipped as far as who won early, who won late, probably from the first time. And that usually the case. Someone's got something to prove.”

— Kalen DeBoer, Head Coach

What’s next

Fans will be able to attend the 2026 A-Day spring game at Bryant-Denny Stadium on April 12, 2026, with gates opening at noon CT and the scrimmage beginning at 1 p.m. CT.

The takeaway

Alabama's return to a more traditional offense vs. defense scrimmage format for the 2026 A-Day spring game will provide fans with an exciting preview of the Crimson Tide's progress ahead of the upcoming season, after an experimental format last year.