Fresno State’s Oct. 10 matchup against Texas A&M has been canceled- the second game scrapped after the Fresno State-Colorado game as conferences announce a conference-only football schedule.
The Southeastern Conference (SEC) announced on Thursday that they will play a 10-game, conference-only schedule for its upcoming football season, according to a report from Sports Illustrated.
SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey’s decision to hold a conference-only season comes following talks amongst the SEC’s Presidents and Chancellors, Athletics Directors, Conference Office staff, and medical advisors. Additionally, it was led by the SEC’s Return to Activity and Medical Guidance Task Force.
“After careful consideration of the public health indicators in our region and following advice of our medical advisors, we have determined that this is the best course of action to prepare for a safe and healthy return to competition for SEC student-athletes, coaches and others associated with our sports programs,” Sankey said.
The SEC’s decision will greatly affect the pocket books of the Fresno State Athletic Department, as the Bulldogs were expected to pocket nearly $1.3 million dollars to travel to College Station, Texas in the fall.
Fresno State has already taken a hit when it comes to revenue, losing $600,000 with the cancellation of the Colorado game.
With two of Fresno State’s non-conference opponents off the schedule, it’s looking less likely that the season opener against Idaho State and the Oct. 17 matchup against New Mexico State will take place. Those games will hinge on the decisions of the Mountain West (MW), Big Sky Conference and New Mexico State.
Neither Fresno State nor the MW has decided whether they will play fall 2020 sports in general or if they will have a conference-only schedule for fall sports.