Butch Dill / Associated Press
The Big Ten has reportedly called for the College Football Playoff National Championship, scheduled for Monday night, to be postponed for one week due to concerns about the number of players who may be inactive for the state of Ohio.
Dan Patrick reported Thursday that the Buckeyes are “very close to the availability limit” because of COVID-19 protocols they are preparing to face Alabama:
Patrick noted that there is particular concern about the OSU defensive line, the unit that was a critical factor in the team’s upset victory over Clemson in the Sugar Bowl semifinal.
John Talty and Matt Zenitz of AL.com reported earlier that there were discussions between all parties involved – the CFP, SEC, Big Ten and both schools – about the possibility of moving the game, which takes place at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, to January 18th. .
On Tuesday, both CFP executive director Bill Hancock and athletic director Gene Smith, Ohio, said ESPN there were no threatening plans to postpone the match.
“I can tell you there are no changes,” Hancock said. “The match is scheduled for January 11 and we are looking forward to it.”
Smith added: “We follow the same protocols we followed all season. We plan to play on January 11, and we continue to communicate with the Big Ten and now the CFP; at this point we see the “game is being played. But who knows what tomorrow will bring? It’s COVID. We’re on course now.”
There is no indication of contingency plans if the Buckeyes fall below the availability limit, which can be especially difficult if it happens after both teams have arrived in Florida.
Alabama, led by recently-crowned Heisman Trophy winner DeVonta Smith, comes 31-14 over Notre Dame in the Rose Bowl semifinals.
“Last night was a great feeling,” Smith said. told reporters on Wednesday after winning the Heisman on Tuesday night. ‘It was just a blessing to be in that situation [quarterback Mac Jones and head coach Nick Saban]. But now it’s in the past, and now it’s to the state of Ohio. ‘
If the title contest is not postponed, the kick-off is scheduled for 8 a.m. ET on ESPN on Monday.