All articles tagged with #turf
Ohio State announced a 2026 upgrade to Ohio Stadium with Shaw Sports Turf’s Forge Series playing surface, an NFL-standard field with integrated markings and customizable end zones to support themed games. The new turf, replacing the 2022 surface amid slipping concerns, will not switch to grass due to maintenance, and will also accommodate non-football events like concerts.
Ohio State unveiled a 2026 uniform rollout featuring five distinct combinations (Core Home/Core Road, Tunnel Vision, Scarlet Rush, Sub Zero) with updates like a metallic Buckeye Stripe on sleeves, a center Block O collar, and inner jersey festoon details, all built on Nike’s Vapor F.U.S.E. fabric. A new Forge Series turf at Ohio Stadium by Shaw Sports Turf will enhance branding, playability, and safety, with game-week plans for specific uniforms. Leaders Ross Bjork and coach Ryan Day emphasize honoring tradition while advancing performance and stadium branding.
NFL players, led by NFLPA chief JC Tretter, cite a survey showing 92% of players (about 1,700) prefer grass to turf and are pushing for high-quality grass fields in NFL stadiums. Owners seek cheaper, multipurpose surfaces, so turning the tide likely hinges on concessions in the next CBA and on feasibility and cost of upgrading fields across venues that host football and other events.
The Rays used Tropicana Field to reacclimate ahead of its April 6 reopening, testing the new fiberglass roof and replacement turf as they head on a nine-game road trip. Players noted brighter light and normal ball behavior off the turf, with manager Kevin Cash calling the venue in good shape and “totally normal.” Meanwhile, Nick Martinez struggled in spring, going 0-4 with a 14.49 ERA as Tampa Bay prepares for the season after hurricane damage to the ballpark.
After Giants receiver Malik Nabers suffered a season-ending knee injury on artificial turf, Odell Beckham Jr. publicly urged the NFL to replace turf with grass, citing safety concerns and his own history of injuries on artificial surfaces.
NFLPA executive director Lloyd Howell stated that 92% of players prefer playing on natural grass fields over artificial turf due to lower injury rates and discomfort experienced on turf. The union is advocating for more grass fields in NFL stadiums, citing the potential impact on player longevity and well-being. Additionally, players expressed concerns about the quality of practice fields and discussed the potential ban of the hip-drop tackle, while also welcoming the end of the gambling ban for players after the Super Bowl.
Miami Dolphins running back Raheem Mostert criticized MetLife Stadium's playing surface after teammate Jaelan Phillips suffered a serious Achilles injury, joining a growing list of NFL players who have expressed concerns about the turf. Despite a change in playing surfaces this offseason, several notable players have suffered significant injuries at MetLife, including Aaron Rodgers and Kyle Fuller. Mostert called for action to improve player safety, stating that "something has to change."
Jets wide receiver Garrett Wilson criticizes the playing surface at MetLife Stadium, calling it "garbage." Despite a new synthetic turf field being installed this offseason, players continue to express dissatisfaction with it. Many players prefer playing on grass, while owners favor turf for its compatibility with revenue-generating events. The increasing vocalization of players' concerns raises the question of whether owners will take action.
Lamar Jackson expresses surprise and excitement at being recognized by fans in London, as the Ravens prepare to face the Titans at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Meanwhile, concerns arise about the playing surface after several Buffalo Bills players complained about the turf being hard and unsafe. The Ravens held a team meeting to refocus following their loss to the Steelers, with an emphasis on protecting the ball and improving fundamentals. Both Jackson and Coach Harbaugh are confident that dropped passes won't continue to plague the team.