Alabama football’s annual A-Day returns on Saturday, though it will look radically different on the field than in previous years. The open practice won’t be aired on television for the first time since at least 2006, though admission at Bryant-Denny Stadium is still free.
For those who are heading to Tuscaloosa, here’s what to expect from Kalen DeBoer’s second A-Day in charge.
What time does A-Day begin?
The open practice is scheduled to begin at 12 p.m. CT at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Gates to the stadium will open at 11 a.m. CT, and fans can enter through gates 14-17, 21-24, 34 and 47-53
Clear bag policy remains in effect for A-Day. The first 5,000 fans to enter the stadium will receive a commemorative poster.
Ahead of the practice, several activities will be available outside of Bryant-Denny. Champions Lane will open at 9 a.m., and the Crimson Tide will hold its annual Walk of Fame ceremony at 10 a.m. CT near Denny Chimes on campus, featuring the captains of the 2024 team.
Alabama players will make the Walk of Champions in to Bryant-Denny Stadium at 11:35 a.m. CT. Once the practice concludes, Yea Alabama members can take part in an autograph session on the field, set to begin at approximately 1:45 p.m. CT.
What format will A-Day take?
Spring games are changing across the sport this offseason, and Alabama is no different. A-Day will not feature a spring game this year, and won’t even resemble last season’s modified scrimmage that scrapped separating players into two teams.
Instead, the Tide held its third and final spring scrimmage on Thursday. Friday’s even will be a traditional practice.
Based on the schedule, it appears the practice will last around an hour and 45 minutes. UA divides its practices into five minute periods, so fans could see some variety in what players are doing on the field.
Where to park for A-Day in Tuscaloosa
Campus parking lots will offer free parking for A-Day. The lots are scheduled to open at 7 a.m. CT on Saturday.
Tutwiler Deck will offer accessible parking Saturday. The garage will have golf cart shuttles to and from the stadium.
In addition to the free parking, NW Stadium Lot, Reese Phifer Lot, Wallace Wade Lot, N. 11th Ave Lot, West ten Hoor Lot, East ten Hoor Lot, Stadium Drive Deck, North ten Hoor Deck, Triangle Lot and Denny Court will be reserved for Tide Pride members with a permit.
The Crimson Ride bus system will be free to all on A-Day, and services east campus parking lots.
