There's little doubting football's prominent place in American culture. It has unquestionably passed baseball as our country's most popular game. Even in spring, college and professional levels come to the forefront.
In the past few years, the slightest NFL news has become worthy of banner headlines. The league never seems to take a break, with its biggest stars grabbing unmatched attention despite being away from the field.
The NFL draft is now among the most anticipated events in all of sport, with millions of fans watching in anticipation of what new players will join their favorite teams.
The event offers little action, yet its drama makes for great entertainment.
This past weekend's draft attracted more media coverage than ever. Sports television and radio networks devoted most of their attention to it, pushing NBA and NHL playoff series out of the national spotlight.
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All teams host parties of varying degrees to celebrate the day. Fans are able to rub elbows with players, coaches and front-office personnel while watching the selections unfold. The Vikings host a get-together that attracts thousands.
It's no wonder the NFL is considering adding franchises overseas.
Already immensely popular in the global market, this could be the next logical step. An extended schedule is also in the works, with the Super Bowl being pushed back to mid-February.
At the college level, spring football has always been a heavily scrutinized period, particularly at schools where the sport is a way of life. The month of practices serve as a preview of what the fall might bring.
The media pressure is intense, with players and coaches having performances dissected as if it were mid-season. This period offers a glimpse of a team's potential, and always builds a summer of anticipation.
On many football-crazy campuses, the intrasquad games that close the spring season become can't-miss events attracting enormous crowds. These controlled scrimmages are often televised, sometimes to a national audience.
For programs like Texas, Alabama and Ohio State, this game becomes a hot ticket. Ohio State played their contest in front of 95,000, while other larger schools draw near-sellouts to watch their beloved teams.
In a unique move, the Minnesota Gophers played their annual spring game last Saturday at the University of St. Thomas. This was done to get fans acclimated to the outdoor atmosphere they'll have at TCF Bank Stadium, the new Gopher home starting this fall.
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It was a rousing success, as an overflow crowd showed up to watch a football program that will take on a new identity in September.
After a quarter-century in the Metrodome, it will be a completely different look.
Fans came away awestruck by the speed and arm-strength of freshman quarterback Marquis Gray. According to reports, he has the tools to compete for the starting job with veteran Adam Weber, as well as the athletic ability to play other positions.
In Duluth
Closer to home, the UMD football team has also completed spring workouts. The defending Division II national champions will have to replace several key players, including All-American quarterback Ted Schlafke.
The intrasquad game last Friday night showed many of the characteristics that make the Bulldogs successful.
A large, quick and physical defense dominated play, making for a low-scoring contest in miserable conditions.
Wind, cold and drizzle made it tough for the offense to move the ball.
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Passing was nearly impossible, making it difficult to judge the quarterbacks looking to replace Schlafke. The running backs again look strong, and may have to carry the load early next season.
It's hard to believe that football season is only a few months away. For a lot of teams, it never really ends.
Dave LeGarde is the Duluth Central basketball coach and a sports aficionado. Contact him at dlegarde@charter.net .
