Alabama football’s A-Day is an annual tradition that gives fans a sneak peek at the Crimson Tide before the official season begins. However, the 2025 A-Day game is taking a different approach, leaving many fans wondering about how they can watch or stream the event. This article will explain why the A-Day game won’t be broadcast on TV this year and what to expect from the altered format.
The decision to forgo a traditional broadcast stems from concerns about tampering via the transfer portal, as well as a desire to prioritize a controlled practice environment. Despite the changes, the event remains a crucial opportunity for players to showcase their talents in front of a live audience. We’ll dive into the specifics of the format change, the reasons behind it, and how fans can still be a part of the A-Day experience.
No TV or Streaming for A-Day 2025
For the 2025 A-Day game, there will be no TV broadcast or streaming option available. If you want to watch Alabama football A-Day 2025, you will have to make your way to Bryant-Denny Stadium. Otherwise, you’ll be out of luck. This marks a significant departure from previous years when the spring game was readily accessible to fans via various ESPN channels and streaming platforms.
A year ago, coach Kalen DeBoer’s first spring game at Alabama was broadcast on ESPN. The year prior, it was broadcast on SEC Network+. In 2022, ESPN+ broadcast the game. In 2021, ESPN showcased the event on its main channel.
Transfer Portal Concerns and Tampering
With the transfer portal set to open for a week on Wednesday, April 16, tampering remains a paramount concern. Broadcasts can be a way for opposing teams to see which players they might want to try and land in the transfer portal. By limiting the exposure of players during the A-Day practice, Alabama aims to mitigate potential poaching by other programs. The Alabama is far from alone in eliminating a way to watch the game.
Why It’s a Practice, Not a Game
Some programs aren’t even holding spring games or spring events at all. Alabama won’t play a game. It will instead be a practice, like Auburn and many others who have ditched the previous format of a game. The practice is set to last for about 90 minutes. It follows a recent trend to college football spring games as we knew them.
“It’s really, to me, not even about the portal concern that I know everyone makes it out to be,” said DeBoer. “It’s just that we’re really out there. We ran a lot of reps (Thursday), but we were very specific and sometimes you almost had to stop things to get the right groups of people, matchups and things like that, to have a quality rep for all 22 guys that are on the football field. That practice-type environment is something that I think best accomplishes both things for the fans that we want to do with the A-Day, and also for our football team to utilize a practice.”
Dealing with Injuries
Alabama is also dealing with a long-list of injuries. Most of the tight ends are out with injuries. Expected returning starters such as Domani Jackson, Keon Sabb and others are out as well. These injuries contribute to the decision to hold a practice rather than a full-fledged game, as the team needs to manage player health and availability.
Attend A-Day in Person
Despite the lack of a broadcast, attending A-Day in person remains a great option for fans. DeBoer has stressed the value in having a controlled environment, but keeping the event in some fashion was a priority to him.
“I think it’s really important for our guys to get in front of fans,” DeBoer said. “I remember a year ago when we came out, you know this year we got 18 new freshmen and then we also have some transfers and this is their first time in Bryant-Denny with people, so I think that’s a huge benefit for us. I remember seeing some guys a little bit like ‘Wow,’ you know, eyes wide open, so that’s a huge benefit for us.”
Attendance: Free of charge to all fans.
A-Day time, date: Noon CT, Saturday April 12
Walk of Fame ceremony: 10 a.m. CT at Denny Chimes
Walk of Champions: 11:35 a.m. CT
Where to enter stadium: Gates 14-17, 21-24, 34 and 47-53
Parking: , starting at 7 a.m.
A-Day 2025: A New Era
The 2025 Alabama A-Day game marks a shift in how spring football is presented, prioritizing player safety and strategic advantage over widespread broadcasting. While fans may miss the convenience of watching from home, the in-person experience at Bryant-Denny Stadium remains a valuable opportunity to connect with the team and witness the future of Alabama football.
By attending the practice, fans can support the team and enjoy the traditions surrounding A-Day. The changes reflect a broader trend in college football, emphasizing controlled environments and live attendance. As the Crimson Tide prepares for the upcoming season, A-Day offers a unique glimpse into their progress and potential. Make sure to arrive early and secure your spot to witness the action firsthand!
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