The Big Ten will play conference-only schedules in all fall sports, including football, should the league be able to participate in athletic events in the face of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, the conference announced Thursday.
As the first member of the Bowl Subdivision to take such a step, the Big Ten’s move could portend similar changes across the highest level of college sports given the continued uncertainty caused by COVID-19.
“We are facing uncertain and unprecedented times, and the health, safety and wellness of our student-athletes, coaches, game officials, and others associated with our sports programs and campuses remain our number one priority,” the conference said in a statement.