Michigan Football Spring Game Returns to Big House

Fans can catch the annual intrasquad scrimmage on local TV this Saturday.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 10:03am

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A fragmented, geometric painting in shades of maize and blue, depicting the dynamic action of a Michigan football game through Picasso-esque overlapping planes and shapes.The annual Michigan football spring game offers a unique glimpse into the team's future, with a vibrant, cubist-inspired illustration capturing the energy and anticipation of the event.Ann Arbor Today

The University of Michigan football team will hold its annual spring game this Saturday at the iconic Big House stadium in Ann Arbor. The exhibition match, which pits the team's offense against its defense, will be broadcast live on local television for fans to enjoy.

Why it matters

The spring game is a highly anticipated event for Michigan football fans, providing an early glimpse of the team's roster and potential starting lineup ahead of the upcoming season. It also serves as a community celebration, drawing thousands of supporters to the campus.

The details

Michigan head coach Kyle Whittingham has emphasized the importance of using the spring game to evaluate younger players who haven't seen significant playing time, rather than showcasing the team's established starters. The exhibition will feature four 12-minute quarters and will include both traditional gameplay as well as specialized drills and scrimmage situations.

  • The Michigan football spring game will take place on Saturday, April 19, 2026.
  • Kickoff is scheduled for 1:00 PM EDT at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor.

The players

Kyle Whittingham

The head coach of the University of Michigan football team, leading the Wolverines since 2024.

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What they’re saying

“We're not going to put a guy in there that we know what he can do, and he's where he needs to be, and he's played hundreds of snaps here − there's no reason for that.”

— Kyle Whittingham, Head Coach, University of Michigan Football

What’s next

Fans can tune in to the local ABC affiliate to watch the Michigan football spring game live on television this Saturday afternoon.

The takeaway

Michigan's annual spring game provides an exciting opportunity for fans to get an early look at the team's roster and potential starting lineup ahead of the upcoming season. The exhibition match also serves as a celebration of the program and a chance for the community to come together at the iconic Big House stadium.