The Big Ten is planning on playing a conference-only football schedule in 2020, if it can hold a season at all.
The conference announced the decision Thursday, confirming multiple media reports. The move was precipitated by the ongoing effects of the coronavirus pandemic and applies to all fall sports — men’s and women’s cross country, field hockey, football, men’s and women’s soccer and women’s volleyball.
“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.