This is getting a little out of hand. We understand that schools with small football programs need to work a bit harder to gain publicity and capture some of the media spotlight, but where does it end? As time goes on, more and more schools are opting for artificial turf over natural grass in their football stadiums. It saves time and, more importantly, money. That being said, it would probably be easiest on all of our eyes if the artificial grass was a traditional color like — I don’t know — green? In what is certainly an attempt at gaining some publicity, Central Arkansas has decided to install purple and gray turf in their football stadium. Check out these pictures from Central Arkansas Athletics on Facebook (click twice to enlarge):
Depending on your viewpoint (and how prone you are to headaches), this is a disturbing trend for small football schools. Boise State has become well-known for their blue and orange turf and we have already had opposing coaches like Rocky Long object, claiming it gives the home team an unfair advantage. Oregon State obviously felt it was important to prepare for the uniquely-colored surface, as they painted their practice field blue to prepare for a game with the Broncos back in September.
Despite some opposition, the trend continues. Within the past year alone Eastern Washington joined the colored field ranks and UT San Antonio has considered doing the same thing. Personally, I think it’s obnoxious and hate looking at it. However, it gets us talking. If creating a buzz is the goal for schools who install wacky surfaces, it’s working.
