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Reported virus issues at Ohio State raise specter of CFP delay

CFP Sugar Bowl Football
Posted at 7:18 PM, Jan 05, 2021
and last updated 2021-01-05 19:18:46-05

College Football Playoff executive director Bill Hancock says the national championship game between No. 1 Alabama and No. 3 Ohio State is still a go for Monday night.

AL.com reports that Ohio State has been in contact with CFP officials about possible player availability problems related to COVID-19 that could force the game to be delayed.

A person with knowledge of the situation confirmed those discussions to The Associated Press.

Ohio State athletic director Gene Smith says the Buckeyes continue to follow the same protocols they have all season and plan to play Monday in suburban Miami.

On Twitter, Alabama athletic director Greg Byrne said that he and Smith had multiple conversations.

“Both schools are focused on playing in the @CFBPlayoff Championship Game on Jan. 11,” Byrne said.

According to The Associated Press, Hancock said the national title game was still scheduled for Monday, but Jan. 18 could potentially be a makeup date if necessary.