The LSU football game against University of Tennessee has been moved to Monday at 6:30 p.m.
SEC Commissioner Mike Slive announced Thursday night that the game was rescheduled because of Hurricane Rita’s growing threat. The rescheduled Sept. 26 game marks the latest home opener since Sept. 24, 1977 when LSU defeated Rice 77-0.
Rita is anticipated to hit land early Saturday near the Texas-Louisiana border. Meteorologists predict the hurricane to affect communities as far away as 60 miles from the eye, bringing squalls of heavy rain and gusty winds to Baton Rouge.
In two teleconference meetings Thursday afternoon, Slive communicated with LSU and Tennessee athletic officials.
“We met first to lay out all the facts and everything that is involved with making a decision,” said Associate Athletic Director Herb Vincent. “We wanted to look at the current weather conditions and address all issues such as travel.”
All three parties took a short break before returning to the teleconference to make a decision. Vincent said they were not sure if a decision could be reached Thursday, but after several discussions Slive reached a compromise with LSU and Tennessee officials.
“After reviewing all of the information, I felt this was the best decision for the game,” Slive said in a news release. “The safety of our student athletes, coaches and fans is our priority. I understand this puts a burden on LSU and its administration, however, the travel safety issues necessitate this decision.”
LSU’s original home opener against North Texas was postponed after Hurricane Katrina hit southern Louisiana. In the aftermath of Katrina, LSU athletic officials opted to move the team’s second home game against Arizona State to Tempe, Ariz.
The Tennessee game will also be televised on ESPN 2.
Contact Tabby Soignier at [email protected]