Alabama Football Announces Changes to Annual A-Day Spring Game in 2025

The University of Alabama football team is preparing for another exciting spring season, but with some important changes to its annual A-Day Spring Game in 2025. As one of the most anticipated events on the Crimson Tide’s calendar, A-Day provides a chance for fans to get a sneak peek at the upcoming team and how they are shaping up ahead of the fall season. This year, however, fans will notice several notable adjustments to the event, ranging from changes in game format to alterations in player dynamics. Here’s what you need to know about the upcoming A-Day Spring Game in 2025.

The Date and Format of the Game

The 2025 A-Day Spring Game is set to take place on Saturday, April 12, at 12:00 PM Central Time at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Historically, the A-Day game has been an event where fans can witness a scrimmage between Alabama’s offense and defense. However, this year, the Crimson Tide coaching staff is modifying the traditional format in a few significant ways.

For starters, the scrimmage will no longer feature the usual match-up of the first-team offense versus the first-team defense. Instead, the coaching staff is shifting to a more fluid format that allows for better player evaluation while addressing some of the current team’s needs. Head Coach Kalen DeBoer, who is entering his second spring with the team, emphasized that the decision to adjust the A-Day game format is a result of several factors, including injury considerations and overall team dynamics. These changes aim to ensure that the players can perform to the best of their abilities while minimizing the risk of injury, especially in key positions.

One notable change is the absence of a live broadcast for the game. While A-Day games in previous years have been televised and live-streamed, 2025’s game will be available only for those who choose to attend in person. For fans who are not able to make the trip to Tuscaloosa, this means missing out on the live-streamed experience, but the event will still be accessible to those who want to watch the action up close from the stands.

A Celebration of Leadership and Legacy

In addition to the on-field adjustments, Alabama football will also take a moment to honor the legacy of past leaders. Prior to the game, the Crimson Tide will hold a special ceremony to cement the hand and footprints of the 2024 team captains—quarterback Jalen Milroe, offensive lineman Tyler Booker, safety Malachi Moore, and linebacker Deontae Lawson—on the Quad near Denny Chimes. This tradition adds an emotional touch to the day, as it reflects the pride of the program and acknowledges the contributions of its leadership.

This tribute will provide fans and players alike an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of those who helped guide Alabama to another successful season and will undoubtedly be a highlight of the festivities surrounding the A-Day game.

Focus on Spring Practices and Player Development

While the A-Day game provides a major event for fans, it’s the preceding spring practices that are critical for the team’s preparation. Starting on March 3, the Crimson Tide will begin its 15 practices leading up to the spring game. These sessions will allow the coaching staff to evaluate returning players, integrate new talent, and fine-tune strategies that will shape the upcoming season.

This year’s spring practices will be particularly significant as Alabama continues to develop its roster and figure out the best combinations of players to lead them into the 2025 season. With key departures from the team, including quarterback Jalen Milroe, who is preparing for the NFL Draft, the coaching staff will be closely monitoring several position battles and transitions.

Key Players to Watch During Spring Practices

As always, A-Day serves as a stage to watch how players are progressing throughout spring camp. With new faces and key returning players stepping up, here are a few individuals to keep an eye on during Alabama’s spring practices and the 2025 A-Day Game:

• Ty Simpson (Quarterback): With Milroe’s departure, Ty Simpson enters spring practices as one of the leading candidates to take over as Alabama’s starting quarterback. Simpson, a redshirt sophomore, has the most experience among returning quarterbacks and has shown flashes of potential in past seasons. His performance in spring practices and the A-Day game will be crucial in determining whether he can emerge as the team’s new signal-caller.
• Isaiah Horton (Wide Receiver): Transfer Isaiah Horton, who comes from Miami, is expected to be a key contributor to Alabama’s passing game. Horton has the skills to provide a deep-threat option in the wide receiver room, which is something Alabama will look to capitalize on in the upcoming season. His chemistry with Simpson and other quarterbacks will be a key storyline heading into the A-Day game.
• Wilkin Formby (Offensive Lineman): As Alabama continues to shape its offensive line, Wilkin Formby is a player to watch, especially at the right tackle position. With the line needing to provide stability for whichever quarterback takes the reins, Formby’s development will be essential for the Tide’s success on offense. His performance throughout spring practices could make him a critical part of the offensive line heading into the fall.
• Jam Miller (Running Back): Following a tough end to the 2024 season, Jam Miller will look to rebound and cement his place in the running back rotation. Alabama’s rushing attack has been one of the team’s strengths in recent years, and Miller will need to demonstrate that he can step up and lead the charge in the backfield.
• Kam Dewberry (Offensive Lineman): Dewberry, a transfer from Texas A&M, is another player expected to make an immediate impact. Competing for the left guard spot, Dewberry will play a crucial role in the trenches. His physicality and experience at the SEC level make him a valuable addition to Alabama’s offensive line.