2026-06-12 · Sports Illustrated

The Nebraska Cornhuskers held their spring game on March 28th, but the attendance was significantly lower than in previous years. The game was held at 11:00 am, with temperatures in the 40s and winds gusting out of the north. The running clock for the entire game was also a factor, shortening the game to just about two hours. This meant that fans who drove from Omaha spent more time driving, finding a parking space, and walking to and from the stadium than they did watching the actual game. The University donated some of the proceeds to help the ranchers in western Nebraska whose land had been scorched by prairie fires earlier this year. However, this move was seen as a good thing, but it also raised questions about why the game was not held when the weather was warmer and the kickoff was later. The Nebraska Cornhuskers' spring game attendance has been declining over the past few years, and this year's game was no exception. The attendance was less than 30,000, which is a significant drop from the 80,000 plus attendance figures of just a few years ago. The reasons for this decline are complex, but some possible factors include the early kickoff time, the running clock, and the conflicting Husker sporting events. To increase attendance at future Husker spring games, the University could consider holding the games in April, kicking off no earlier than 1:00 pm, and not scheduling other Husker games on the same day. Additionally, donating part of the proceeds to worthy charities and restoring the name of the scrimmage as the Red and White Spring Game could also help to boost attendance. Overall, the Nebraska Cornhuskers' spring game attendance was a disappointment, but it also presented an opportunity for the University to learn and improve for future events.