The College Football Playoff (CFP) has firmly decided against changing the kickoff times and dates for the Cotton Bowl and Orange Bowl, dismissing requests aimed at providing Notre Dame with more preparation time before their upcoming game.
Southeastern Conference Commissioner Greg Sankey sought a schedule adjustment to accommodate Notre Dame’s tight timetable ahead of their Orange Bowl match next Thursday. This situation unfolded following a one-day postponement of the Fighting Irish’s quarterfinal due to a tragic terror attack in New Orleans.
Expressing the CFP’s rationale, Executive Director Rich Clark communicated, ‘We’re not going to flip the games.’ The organization had previously agreed with athletic directors to reschedule the Sugar Bowl for an earlier start, delaying it by approximately 18 hours. Clark emphasized that the postponement ensured the safety and security of all involved, praising New Orleans (NOLA) and Sugar Bowl officials for their cooperation.
Notre Dame emerged victorious with a 23-10 win against Georgia in the Sugar Bowl, held on Thursday. In parallel, Penn State defeated Boise State 31-14 in the Fiesta Bowl on Tuesday, allowing them slightly more preparation time.
Despite Sankey’s appeal, which aimed to benefit both Notre Dame and Penn State, the CFP cited logistical complexities as a primary reason for maintaining the schedule. These complexities include pre-arranged plans within hosting communities and limited stadium availability.
Rich Clark highlighted these challenges, stating, ‘Logistics are very complicated, disruptive to the other teams involved that have schedules in place, especially Texas and Ohio State.’ The fans’ travel arrangements and their potential disruption were also noted as significant considerations. Texas and Ohio State are set to face off in the Cotton Bowl on January 10.
As the college football season reaches its climax, the CFP remains steadfast in its scheduling, balancing logistical demands with the pursuit of fair play on the field.
The decision by the College Football Playoff to uphold the current schedule underscores the complexities of organizing such prestigious events while prioritizing safety and fairness. Notre Dame and Penn State must now focus on preparing within the confines of this schedule, demonstrating resilience amidst challenging circumstances.
Source: News4jax
