LSU’s matchup with the Florida Gators has officially been postponed, both schools announced Wednesday afternoon.
Florida’s athletic director Scott Stricklin announced Wednesday that the Gators would have less than 50 available scholarship players, less than the SEC requirement, due to the 18 COVID-19 tests from Florida’s players.
The game which was originally scheduled to kick off Saturday at 2:30 p.m. CT will be tentatively rescheduled for Dec. 12 in Gainesville, Fla.
“Our priority is the health and well-being of our student-athletes and staff,” LSU Director of Athletics Scott Woodward said in a news release. “The decision to reschedule the game comes as a result of close coordination and cooperation with the University of Florida and SEC officials and we are in full support. It is disappointing for everyone, but prudent. We wish all those at Florida who may be impacted the very best.”
The Gators paused all football activities Tuesday after multiple positive COVID-19 tests which included two assistant coaches.
Tigers head coach Ed Orgeron said Wednesday morning that he wouldn't be surprised if the game was postponed due to the outbreak the Gators are facing.
This will be the second SEC game this season to be postponed after a scheduled matchup between Vanderbilt and Missouri was postponed until December following several positive tests within the Commodores' program.
LSU's week three opponent was affected by COVID-19 as well. A positive test from a Missouri player sidelined six others, including the Tigers leading receiver, due to contact tracing.
Orgeron said earlier that if the game was indeed postponed that LSU would turn it's attention to preparing for it's next home game, a matchup with the South Carolina Gamecocks.
