It is officially spring game season, and the first major slate kicks off this weekend with showcases around the nation. Saturday is a big day for the SEC, in particular, with eight of its now 16 teams hitting the field to bring their spring practice sessions to an end.
That includes Alabama, which underwent a coaching transition for the first time in more than 15 years, and Georgia, which is looking to make it back to the College Football Playoff after its three-peat quest fell short last season. LSU is breaking in a new quarterback now that Heisman Trophy winner Jayden Daniels is off to the NFL.
It’s not just the SEC’s day to shine, though. Elsewhere around the country, Ohio State will play in front of a national audience after an invigorating offseason that saw major changes to both the coaching staff and roster. Though technically still a member of the Pac-12 until July, Utah is gearing up for a move to the Big 12 and a potential run at even loftier goals.
Here’s a look at some of the top storylines to keep track of during this weekend’s spring games, as well as a rundown of the other notable teams in action on Saturday.
Alabama: Ushering in new era
For the first time in almost 20 years, Alabama will be taking the field at Bryant-Denny Stadium without Nick Saban leading the way. Kalen DeBoer will make his on-screen Crimson Tide debut Saturday; Alabama’s much-anticipated spring game will be broadcast on national cable television in an uncontested, prime slot. There’s plenty of reason for the hype, clearly.
DeBoer brought a brand new staff with him, highlighted by two fresh coordinators in Nick Sheridan on offense and Kane Wommack on defense. Alabama lost some stars to the transfer portal, but returning names like quarterback…
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