Pressure is mounting on Pac-12 Conference leadership — and the governor of California — to get football going again after a wild Wednesday filled with significant announcements, contradictory statements and continuing confusion.
And some of that pressure is being exerted by the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Wildcats.
The day began with big news from the Big Ten: The conference announced it would begin its football season the weekend of Oct. 23-24, reversing an earlier decision to postpone the fall season because of the coronavirus pandemic. The Pac-12 followed the Big Ten’s lead in postponing fall sports.
Then came a news conference featuring California Gov. Gavin ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥om that left many befuddled. ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥om said “there’s nothing in the state guidelines that denies the Pac-12 from having conference games.†That statement seemed to conflict with the sentiment from the league office and even the state’s own laws.
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s Grant Gunnell is the highest-graded returning QB in the Pac-12, per Pro Football Focus.
Josh Galemore / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
On Tuesday, USC football players wrote a letter to ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥om seeking the green light to play ball. UA players sent their own missive Wednesday. Sophomore quarterback Grant Gunnell published the letter — printed on UA stationery — on his Twitter feed. It reads, in part:
“Not only are you the governor of the state in which four of our Pac-12 universities reside, but you are also the governor to the more than 30 football student-athletes at the University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ who hail from California and whose families remain your constituents. Not to mention countless other student-athletes across the entire Pac-12 landscape who call California home.
“With that in mind, we are appealing to you directly in support of our peers, hoping that you will once again hear our voices: We want to play.â€
As the letter noted, the five MLB teams in California have been playing for almost two months. The state’s three NFL teams kicked off this past weekend.
California — home to USC, UCLA, Cal and Stanford — issued a 34-page COVID-19 guidebook to institutions of higher learning in early August. It includes extensive guidelines for athletics.
The second item in Section 5 seems to be the root of the dispute pertaining to college football. It advises that teams “train in cohorts. … A cohort may be composed of six to 12 individuals, all members of the same team, who consistently work out and participate in activities together. Cohorts should avoid mixing with other groups.â€
It’s all but impossible for football teams to prepare for games without pitting 11 offensive players against 11 defenders. Jon Wilner of The Mercury ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ reported Wednesday that ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥om’s office had been in contact with Pac-12 Commissioner Larry Scott and USC officials to formulate a plan to “fast-track (a) revision to (the) controversial 12-person cohort max.â€
That could lead to the return of football, although the timetable remains unclear.
Signs of progress
After the Big Ten announcement Wednesday morning, Scott released a statement asserting that “our universities in California and Oregon do not have approval from state or local public health officials to start contact practice.â€
That tide had shifted by Wednesday afternoon.
Representatives from Oregon and Oregon State met with the Oregon Health Authority “to discuss their COVID-19 health and safety plans for the football teams,†Gov. Kate Brown’s spokesman, Charles Boyle, said in a statement, per The Oregonian. “The universities have asked for an exemption to OHA’s sports guidance, just as Oregon’s professional sports team(s) have been given. We have granted that request, and, under the new guidance, OHA must receive written plans for approval. …
“Up to this point, we have received no written plans from the Pac-12 for the upcoming season, and we have no details from the conference about their new rapid testing proposal. Until we have those details, we can’t move forward in the process.â€
Later Wednesday afternoon, it appeared that progress had been made. Scott, in a statement, lauded ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥om and Brown for allowing “contact practice and return to competition, and that there are no state restrictions on our ability to play sports.â€
“We appreciate Governor ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥om’s and Governor Brown’s support,†the statement continued, “the former of which is consistent with the very productive conversation that he and I had earlier today. Our California and Oregon universities will now each individually and immediately reach out to their relevant county public health officials to seek clarification on what is required to achieve the same clearance to resume contact practice and competition. We are eager for our student-athletes to have the opportunity to play this season, as soon as it can be done safely and in accordance with public health authority approvals.â€
Playing catch-up
So it appears the Pac-12 is again following the Big Ten’s lead — or at least trying to. The question is whether the Pac-12 can pull everything together in time to sync up with the rest of college football.
Every school in the league is expected to have daily antigen testing available by the end of this month. The Pac-12 announced an agreement with Quidel Corporation on Sept. 3 that Scott hailed as a “game-changer†for a return to competition. The availability of enhanced COVID-19 testing, with rapid turnaround time, was one of the biggest factors in the Big Ten’s decision to reverse course.
However, before Wednesday, even the most optimistic projections for the return of Pac-12 football targeted a restart in mid-to-late November. Dr. David T. Harris, executive director of the University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥â€™s Health Sciences Biorepository, told the Star on Tuesday that January was the most realistic time frame. That was consistent with the outlook within the UA athletic department.
But whenever a winter football season running from January to March was discussed, the idea was to operate it in conjunction with the Big Ten — with postseason games, including the Rose Bowl, attached as sweeteners. Now that the Big Ten is planning to start up again in late October, the Pac-12 is in a precarious position: It’s the only member of the so-called Power Five conferences that hasn’t begun to play or released a plan to do so.
The UA has been at the forefront in terms of COVID testing and has been using the Quidel product — which can generate a single test result in 15 minutes — since late May. The Wildcats have been working out since mid-June, with a handful of interruptions because of COVID outbreaks and one instance of incorrect PCR test results.
Scott and others have said teams will require six weeks to get ready for a season. If that’s the case, it would be impossible to mirror the Big Ten even if teams began to ramp up training this weekend. Oct. 23 is five weeks from Friday.
The Pac-12 CEO Group — consisting of school presidents and chancellors — reportedly will meet that day.
The Big Ten is planning to play an eight-game regular season with the league championship game,– lus six other cross-division games, scheduled for Dec. 19, according to reports. That would enable the conference to participate in the College Football Playoff.
Today in sports history: Sept. 17
Today in Sports History: September 17th
The view from the new Lowell-Stevens Football facility as ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ fans stand and cheer the team entering the field at th start of the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ vs. Northern ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ football game in ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥, Ariz., on Aug. 30, 2013.
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ running back Jared Baker (23) is tackled by Northern ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ cornerback Randy Hale Jr. (4) during the second quarter of the University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ vs. Northern ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ University football game on Aug. 30, 2013, at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Stadium in ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥, Ariz.
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ running back Daniel Jenkins (3) celebrates with teammate Chris Putton (62) after scoring a touchdown during the second quarter of the University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ vs. Northern ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ University football game on Aug. 30, 2013, at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Stadium in ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥, Ariz.
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ running back Daniel Jenkins (3) breaks for a touchdown during the second quarter of the University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ vs. Northern ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ University football game on Aug. 30, 2013, at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Stadium in ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥, Ariz.
Joshua Gamez, 8, left, and cousin Otto Malone, 7, show their colors before the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ vs. Northern ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ football game in ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥, Ariz., on Aug. 30, 2013.
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ safety Tra'Mayne Bondurant celebrates ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s win over NAU after the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ vs. Northern ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ football game in ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥, Ariz., on Aug. 30, 2013.
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ running back Daniel Jenkins jumps into the arms of lineman Cayman Bundage after Jenkins scored ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s first touchdown of the season in the the first quarter during the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ vs. Northern ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ football game in ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥, Ariz., on Aug. 30, 2013.
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ lineback Sir Thomas Jackson wraps up NAU running back Zach Bauman during the first quarter of the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ vs. Northern ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ football game in ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥, Ariz., on Aug. 30, 2013.
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ defenders bring down NAU running back Zach Bauman during the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ vs. Northern ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ football game in ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥, Ariz., on Aug. 30, 2013.
The Pride of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ marching band rushes the field as the game starts during the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ vs. Northern ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ football game in ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥, Ariz., on Aug. 30, 2013.
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ head coach Rich Rodriguez yells from the sideline during the first quarter of the University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ vs. Toledo football game at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Stadium Sept. 1, 2012.
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ head coach Rich Rodriguez yells from the sideline during the first quarter of the University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ vs. Toledo football game at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Stadium Sept. 1, 2012.
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ quarterback Matt Scott high-fives with fans during the Wildcat Walk before the University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ vs. Toledo football game at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Stadium Sept. 1, 2012.
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ running back Daniel Jenkins celebrates after the University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ beat Toledo 24-17 in overtime at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Stadium in ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥, Ariz., on Sept. 1, 2012.
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ receiver Dan Buckner, left, runs into a swarm of Toledo defenders during the second half of the University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ vs. Toledo football game at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Stadium Sept. 1, 2012.
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ quarterback Matt Scott rolls out of the pocket during the first half of the University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ vs. Toledo football game at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Stadium Sept. 1, 2012.
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ quarterback Matt Scott hands off to running back Ka'Deem Carey during the first half of the University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ vs. Toledo football game at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Stadium Sept. 1, 2012.
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s Austin Hill hauls in a touchdown pass during the first half of the University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ vs. Toledo football game at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Stadium in ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥, Ariz., on Sept. 1, 2012.
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s Dan Buckner drags Toledo's Dan Molls, 32, and Keith Suggs, right, during the first half of the University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ vs. Toledo football game at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Stadium in ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥, Ariz., on Sept. 1, 2012.
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s #2 Keola Antolin gains a lot of yards on this run in the first quarter as NAU's #56 Brandon Phillips tries to make the tackle Sept. 3, 2011.
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s Matt Scott scrambles in his own end zone as his lineman Conan Amituanai holds Toledo defensive lineman Johnie Roberts in the second quarter in the Glass Bowl, Sept. 3, 2010.
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ fans cheer from the Zona Zoo student section in the first quarter of the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Wildcats' home opener against the Citadel Bulldogs at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Stadium in ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥, Ariz., Sept. 11, 2010.
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s Nic Grigsby just gets brushed by the fingertips of Toledo's Byron Best on a mazy touchdown run in the second quarter to make the score 14-2 ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Sept. 3, 2010.
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s Keola Antolin lets out a shout after leaving a host of Toledo defenders in his wake on his way into the end zone in the fourth quarter for the final 41-2 win in the Glass Bowl, Sept. 3, 2010.
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ tackle Donald Horton Jr. sacks Central Michigan quarterback Dan LeFevour in the first quarter at the opening game of the 2009 season, Sept. 5, 2009.
Mark Hall serves up a tong full of vegetables for a brat as he handles the cooking chores for the Red Army on the lawn northeast of McKale Center before the football game between the UA and Central Michigan, the opening game of the 2009 season, at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Stadium, Sept. 5, 2009.
University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s Mike Thomas, left, is congratulated by Robert Golden after Thomas nearly ran a punt return back for a touchdown against University of Idaho Aug. 30, 2008
University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Zona Zoo students take cover under umbrellas during a rain delay before the game against the University of Idaho on Aug. 30, 2008.
UA’s Antoine Cason cruises into the end zone as the crowd and his teammates celebrate his punt return for a touchdown in the second quarter, Sept. 8, 2007.
U of A's Wilrey Fontenot, left, and Louis Holmes go airborne to celebrate Holme's drive-killing sack late in the second quarter against Brigham Young at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Stadium, Sept. 2, 2006.
Being pursued by holder Kyle McQuown, right, UA place kicker Nicholas Folk, left, charges across the field in celebration after hitting a 48-yard field goal with one second remaining in the game for a 16-13 win over Brigham Young at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Stadium, Sept. 2, 2006.
Northern ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ University #22 Philo Sanchez fumbles after getting hit by ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s #20 Lamon Means in the second quarter at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Stadium Sept. 10, 2005.
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s Chris Henry fumbles for his third fumble in two games, as he loses his helmet at the same time in the fourth quarter against Northern ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ University at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Stadium, Sept. 10, 2005.
University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ running back Mike Bell runs into Northern ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ University linebacker Bruce Branch as NAU defensive lineman Lawrence Ball is in pursuit during their first game of the season on Sept. 4, 2004.
Local businessman Jim Click, far left, greets University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ coach Mike Stoops in the end zone after his team defeated Northern ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ University 21-3 during their first game of the season on Sept. 4, 2004.
The student section of the University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ get into the game as the Wildcats play Northern ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ University in their first game of the season on Sept. 4, 2004.
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ wide receiver Ricky Williams carries the ball for the first touchdown in the first quarter of the first game of the season against UTEP at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Stadium Aug. 30, 2003.
The University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ football team enters the field to fanfare and fireworks for the first game of the season against UTEP at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Stadium Aug. 30, 2003.
Wildcat defensive tackle Daniel Greer sacks Iowa quarterback Kyle McCann for a loss in the first quarter in the home opener of the UA football season at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Stadium Sept. 19, 1998.
UA Tight End Mike Lucky (88) catches a first quarter pass in the home opener against University of Alabama-Birmingham linebacker Shawn Alexander Sept. 13, 1997.
UA sports Throwback Thursday: ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ football home openers
Check out these photos of UA football's opening games from past years.
The view from the new Lowell-Stevens Football facility as ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ fans stand and cheer the team entering the field at th start of the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ vs. Northern ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ football game in ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥, Ariz., on Aug. 30, 2013.
Kelly Presnell / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ running back Jared Baker (23) is tackled by Northern ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ cornerback Randy Hale Jr. (4) during the second quarter of the University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ vs. Northern ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ University football game on Aug. 30, 2013, at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Stadium in ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥, Ariz.
Mike Christy / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
Fireworks fly as the game starts during the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ vs. Northern ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ football game in ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥, Ariz., on Aug. 30, 2013.
Mike Christy / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ running back Daniel Jenkins (3) celebrates with teammate Chris Putton (62) after scoring a touchdown during the second quarter of the University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ vs. Northern ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ University football game on Aug. 30, 2013, at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Stadium in ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥, Ariz.
Mike Christy / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ running back Daniel Jenkins (3) breaks for a touchdown during the second quarter of the University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ vs. Northern ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ University football game on Aug. 30, 2013, at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Stadium in ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥, Ariz.
Mike Christy / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
Joshua Gamez, 8, left, and cousin Otto Malone, 7, show their colors before the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ vs. Northern ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ football game in ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥, Ariz., on Aug. 30, 2013.
Mike Christy / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
Student fans in the Zona Zoo cheer during the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ vs. Northern ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ football game in ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥, Ariz., on Aug. 30, 2013.
Rick Wiley / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
Student fans in the Zona Zoo reach during the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ vs. Northern ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ football game in ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥, Ariz., on Aug. 30, 2013.
Rick Wiley / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ safety Tra'Mayne Bondurant celebrates ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s win over NAU after the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ vs. Northern ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ football game in ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥, Ariz., on Aug. 30, 2013.
Kelly Presnell / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ running back Daniel Jenkins jumps into the arms of lineman Cayman Bundage after Jenkins scored ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s first touchdown of the season in the the first quarter during the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ vs. Northern ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ football game in ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥, Ariz., on Aug. 30, 2013.
Kelly Presnell / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ lineback Sir Thomas Jackson wraps up NAU running back Zach Bauman during the first quarter of the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ vs. Northern ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ football game in ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥, Ariz., on Aug. 30, 2013.
Mike Christy / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ defenders bring down NAU running back Zach Bauman during the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ vs. Northern ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ football game in ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥, Ariz., on Aug. 30, 2013.
Mike Christy / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
Head coach Rich Rodriguez directs players during the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ vs. Northern ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ football game in ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥, Ariz., on Aug. 30, 2013.
Mike Christy / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
The Pride of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ marching band rushes the field as the game starts during the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ vs. Northern ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ football game in ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥, Ariz., on Aug. 30, 2013.
Mike Christy / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ head coach Rich Rodriguez yells from the sideline during the first quarter of the University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ vs. Toledo football game at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Stadium Sept. 1, 2012.
ARIZONA DAILY STAR
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ head coach Rich Rodriguez yells from the sideline during the first quarter of the University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ vs. Toledo football game at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Stadium Sept. 1, 2012.
ARIZONA DAILY STAR
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ quarterback Matt Scott high-fives with fans during the Wildcat Walk before the University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ vs. Toledo football game at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Stadium Sept. 1, 2012.
ARIZONA DAILY STAR
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ running back Daniel Jenkins celebrates after the University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ beat Toledo 24-17 in overtime at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Stadium in ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥, Ariz., on Sept. 1, 2012.
ARIZONA DAILY STAR
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ receiver Dan Buckner, left, runs into a swarm of Toledo defenders during the second half of the University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ vs. Toledo football game at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Stadium Sept. 1, 2012.
ARIZONA DAILY STAR
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ quarterback Matt Scott rolls out of the pocket during the first half of the University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ vs. Toledo football game at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Stadium Sept. 1, 2012.
ARIZONA DAILY STAR
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ quarterback Matt Scott hands off to running back Ka'Deem Carey during the first half of the University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ vs. Toledo football game at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Stadium Sept. 1, 2012.
ARIZONA DAILY STAR
Toledo's Jermaine Robinson, right, returns an interception Sept. 1, 2012.
ARIZONA DAILY STAR
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s Austin Hill hauls in a touchdown pass during the first half of the University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ vs. Toledo football game at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Stadium in ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥, Ariz., on Sept. 1, 2012.
ARIZONA DAILY STAR
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s Dan Buckner drags Toledo's Dan Molls, 32, and Keith Suggs, right, during the first half of the University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ vs. Toledo football game at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Stadium in ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥, Ariz., on Sept. 1, 2012.
ARIZONA DAILY STAR
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s #31 Taimi Tutogi gets congratulated by teammates #81 Davie Roberts and #82 Juron Criner Sept. 3, 2011.
David Sanders / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s #2 Keola Antolin gains a lot of yards on this run in the first quarter as NAU's #56 Brandon Phillips tries to make the tackle Sept. 3, 2011.
David Sanders / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
UA sophomore Austin Pillon dressed in the red feathers yells support for the UA wildcats Sept. 3, 2011.
David Sanders / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s quarterback #8 Nick Foles gets a congratulatory boost from teammate, center #76 Kyle Quinn Sept. 3, 2011.
David Sanders / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s #21 Gino Crump hauls in a fourth quarter touchdown pass from quarterback Nick Foles as NAU's #25 Mike Dosen can only look on Sept. 3, 2011.
David Sanders / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s freshan running back Ka'Deem Carey runs in the fourth quarter as NAU's #38 Taylor Malenfant tries to make the tackle Sept. 3, 2011.
David Sanders / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s #29 Austin Hill scores a touchdown during a third quarter reception as NAU's #35 Austin Hasquet looks on Sept. 3, 2011.
David Sanders / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s #14 Richard Morrison scores a touchdown in the second half Sept. 3, 2011.
David Sanders / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s #82 Juron Criner celebrates a fourth quarter touchdown pass to #21 Gino Crump Sept. 3, 2011.
David Sanders / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
NAU's #34 Zach Bauman gets tackled by a group of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ defenders in the first quarter Sept. 3, 2011.
David Sanders / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s #82 Juron Criner dives toward the end zone after catching a 42-yard pass in the first quarter Sept. 3, 2011.
David Sanders / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s #82 Juron Criner scores the first touchdown of the game as NAU's #4 Randy Hale, Jr. gives a chase in the first quarter, Sept. 3, 2011.
David Sanders / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s #31 Taimi Tutogi celebrates his first quarter touchdown run with two seconds left in the first quarter Sept. 3, 2011.
David Sanders / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s Red Zone fans show their support as they wait for the NAU game to begin at UA Stadium, Sept. 3, 2011.
David Sanders / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ fan Austin Pillon waits in line to enter the Red Zone beneath UA Stadium Sept. 3, 2011.
David Sanders / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ quarterback Nick Foles scrambles for yardage in the second quarter as NAU defender #51 Eric Storey tries to move in Sept. 3, 2011.
David Sanders / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s Bug Wright gets snared by a diving shoestring tackle by Toledo's Diauntae Morrow Sept. 3, 2010.
Kelly Presnell/ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Daily Sta
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s Derek Earls reaches up to swat down Toledo's Austin Dantin's pass Sept. 3, 2010.
Kelly Presnell/ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Daily Sta
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s Juron Criner skips forward as he drags a Toledo defender for an extra yard Sept. 3, 2010.
Kelly Presnell/ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Daily Sta
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s Nick Foles tries to whip a pass around the arm of Toledo lineman T J. Fatinikun Sept. 3, 2010.
Kelly Presnell/ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Daily Sta
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s Matt Scott scrambles in his own end zone as his lineman Conan Amituanai holds Toledo defensive lineman Johnie Roberts in the second quarter in the Glass Bowl, Sept. 3, 2010.
Kelly Presnell/ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Daily Sta
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s Mike Stoops, left, argues with head linesman Brian Matthew for an offside call against Toledo in the third quarter, Sept. 3, 2010.
Kelly Presnell/ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Daily Sta
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s Adam Hall, left, and Lolomana Mikaele force an incomplete pass from Toledo quarterback Austin Dantin Sept. 3, 2010.
Kelly Presnell/ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Daily Sta
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s Ricky Elmore leads his teammates in acknowledging the UA fans after the Wildcats 41-2 win against Toledo Sept. 3, 2010.
Kelly Presnell/ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Daily Sta
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ fans cheer from the Zona Zoo student section in the first quarter of the ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Wildcats' home opener against the Citadel Bulldogs at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Stadium in ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥, Ariz., Sept. 11, 2010.
Greg Bryan / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s Nic Grigsby just gets brushed by the fingertips of Toledo's Byron Best on a mazy touchdown run in the second quarter to make the score 14-2 ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Sept. 3, 2010.
Kelly Presnell/ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Daily Sta
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ linebacker Paul Vassallo gets his helmet torn off as he levels Toledo running back Morgan Williams in the first quarter, Sept. 3, 2010.
Kelly Presnell/ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Daily Sta
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s Keola Antolin lets out a shout after leaving a host of Toledo defenders in his wake on his way into the end zone in the fourth quarter for the final 41-2 win in the Glass Bowl, Sept. 3, 2010.
Kelly Presnell/ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Daily Sta
UA quarterback Matt Scott gets dragged down by his head by Central Michigan's Mike Petrucci Sept. 5, 2009.
Kelly Presnell / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
UA defensive tackle Earl Mitchell stuffs Central Michigan running back Bryan Schroeder Sept. 5, 2009.
Kelly Presnell / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
UA linemen Brooks Reed, left, and Donald Horton Jr. try to block a field goal attempt by Central Michigan Sept. 5, 2009.
Kelly Presnell / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
UA running back Nic Grigsby lunges forward for an extra yard in the grip of Central Michigan's Frank Zombo Sept. 5, 2009.
Kelly Presnell / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
UA quarterback Matt Scott gets upended by Central Michigan's Eric Fraser, but not after picking up a first down Sept. 5, 2009.
Kelly Presnell / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ tackle Donald Horton Jr. sacks Central Michigan quarterback Dan LeFevour in the first quarter at the opening game of the 2009 season, Sept. 5, 2009.
Kelly Presnell / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
Mark Hall serves up a tong full of vegetables for a brat as he handles the cooking chores for the Red Army on the lawn northeast of McKale Center before the football game between the UA and Central Michigan, the opening game of the 2009 season, at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Stadium, Sept. 5, 2009.
Kelly Presnell / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Head Coach Mike Stoops sits quietly on the sidelines during the game against University of Idaho Aug. 30, 2008
Dean Knuth / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s Terrell Turner tries to get away from University of Idaho's Justin Allen Aug. 30, 2008
Dean Knuth / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s Glyndon Bolasky, left, tackles Princeton McCarty, of the University of Idaho Aug. 30, 2008
Dean Knuth / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
University of Idaho's Preston Davis, center, tries to out run a host of University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Wildcats in the first quarter on Aug. 30, 2008
Dean Knuth / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s Ricky Elmore, left, tries to bring down University of Idaho's Nathan Enderle, right, in the second quarter on Aug. 30, 2008
Dean Knuth / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s Earl Mitchell tries to bring down quarterback for University of Idaho Nathan Enderle Aug. 30, 2008
Dean Knuth / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s Joe Perkins (9) intercepts the pass as Trevin Wade (24) tackles Eric Greenwood of the University of Idaho Aug. 30, 2008
Dean Knuth / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s Mike Thomas, left, is congratulated by Robert Golden after Thomas nearly ran a punt return back for a touchdown against University of Idaho Aug. 30, 2008
Dean Knuth / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s Mike Thomas blows past University of Idaho's Joseph Dickson during a punt return Aug. 30, 2008
Dean Knuth / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s Nic Grigsby gets congratulated by center Colin Baxter after a 55-yard run against University of Idaho Aug. 30, 2008
Dean Knuth / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s Nate Ness comes up with an interception taken from University of Idaho's Jim Reuber in the second quarter on Aug. 30, 2008.
Dean Knuth / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Zona Zoo students take cover under umbrellas during a rain delay before the game against the University of Idaho on Aug. 30, 2008.
Dean Knuth / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Zona Zoo students take cover during a rain delay before the game against University of Idaho on Aug. 30, 2008.
Dean Knuth / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
UA’s Antoine Cason cruises into the end zone as the crowd and his teammates celebrate his punt return for a touchdown in the second quarter, Sept. 8, 2007.
Kelly Presnell / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
Cornerback Antoine Cason was a first-round pick of the Chargers in 2008.
Kelly Presnell, ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ 2007
UA defenders bury Northern ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ University ball carrier K.J. Gerard in the third quarter, Sept. 8, 2007.
Kelly Presnell / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
UA's Antoine Cason fights through a hold to get to Northern ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ receiver Alex Wilson Sept. 8, 2007.
Kelly Presnell / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
UA tight end Rob Gronkowski gets lifted into the air by teammate Eben Britton after Gronkowski's touchdown catch in the third quarter in a 2007 game.
Kelly Presnell, ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ 2007
U of A head coach Mike Stoops reacts to a call against his team Sept. 2, 2006.
Kelly Presnell / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
U of A's Wilrey Fontenot, left, and Louis Holmes go airborne to celebrate Holme's drive-killing sack late in the second quarter against Brigham Young at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Stadium, Sept. 2, 2006.
Kelly Presnell / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
U of A's Spencer Larsen drags down Brigham Young's Nathan Meikle in the fourth quarter at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Stadium, Sept. 2, 2006.
Kelly Presnell / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
U of A running back Chris Henry leaves Brigham Young's Ben Criddle eating turf as he breaks off a long run Sept. 2, 2006.
Kelly Presnell / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
Being pursued by holder Kyle McQuown, right, UA place kicker Nicholas Folk, left, charges across the field in celebration after hitting a 48-yard field goal with one second remaining in the game for a 16-13 win over Brigham Young at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Stadium, Sept. 2, 2006.
Kelly Presnell / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
U of A's Michael Johnson drops on a Brigham Young fumble in the first quarter at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Stadium, Sept. 2, 2006.
Kelly Presnell / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ defnesive end Louis Holmes, left, gets a hand on the facemask of BYU quarterback John Beck on Sept. 2, 2006.
Kelly Presnell, ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
U of A receiver Syndric Steptoe hauls in a pass for a long gain Sept. 2, 2006.
Kelly Presnell / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s Mike Bell celebrates his team's first touchdown after he ran it in Sept. 10, 2005.
David Sanders / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
Former UA receiver and return specialist Syndric Steptoe has rejoined the football program as director of player development.
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
Northern ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ University #22 Philo Sanchez fumbles after getting hit by ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s #20 Lamon Means in the second quarter at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Stadium Sept. 10, 2005.
David Sanders / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
UA running back #27 Chris Henry tries to break the tackle of NAU's Chad Curtis Sept. 10, 2005.
Jim Davis / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
UA tight end Brad Wood catches a TD late in the first half against NAU Sept. 10, 2005.
Jim Davis / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
UA coach Mike Stoops, right, yells instructions during a timeout in the first half against NAU Sept. 10, 2005.
Jim Davis / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s #24 Marcus Hollingsworth and #39 Dane Krogstad sack NAU's #14 Jason Murietta Sept. 10, 2005.
Jim Davis / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
UA's #10 Michael Thomas runs after catching a pass in the first half against NAU Sept. 10, 2005.
Jim Davis / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s Mike Bell cuts between two defenders in the second half against NAU Sept. 10, 2005.
Jim Davis / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
UA quarterback #8 Richard Kovalcheck keeps the ball and runs for a first down late in the game against NAU Sept. 10, 2005.
Jim Davis / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
UA running back Gilbert Harris gets a down field block from #69 John Abramo Sept. 10, 2005.
Jim Davis / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
UA running back Mike Bell cuts behind the block of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s #9 Anthony Johnson against NAU Sept. 10, 2005.
Jim Davis / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
UA fullback Gilbert Harris (36) gets sandwiched between two NAU defenders #32 Bruce Branch and #42 D.J. Wade Sept. 10, 2005.
Jim Davis / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
UA's #24 Marcus Hollingsworth, left, gets a hand on NAU's Jason Murietta, center, Sept. 10, 2005.
Jim Davis / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s Chris Henry fumbles for his third fumble in two games, as he loses his helmet at the same time in the fourth quarter against Northern ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ University at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Stadium, Sept. 10, 2005.
David Sanders / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s Brad Wood scores on this catch in the second quarter against Northern ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ University at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Stadium, Sept. 10, 2005.
David Sanders / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
Northern ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ University defenders chase ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥'s Mike Bell in the first quarter at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Stadium, Sept. 10, 2005.
David Sanders / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
UA fans were fired up as ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ took to the field against Northern ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ University at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Stadium Sept. 10, 2005.
David Sanders / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ running back Mike Bell runs into Northern ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ University linebacker Bruce Branch as NAU defensive lineman Lawrence Ball is in pursuit during their first game of the season on Sept. 4, 2004.
A.E. Araiza / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
Local businessman Jim Click, far left, greets University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ coach Mike Stoops in the end zone after his team defeated Northern ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ University 21-3 during their first game of the season on Sept. 4, 2004.
A.E. Araiza / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
The student section of the University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ get into the game as the Wildcats play Northern ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ University in their first game of the season on Sept. 4, 2004.
A.E. Araiza / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ football coach Mike Stoops gets some air time as he watches his team from the sidelines Sept. 4, 2004.
A.E. Araiza / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ wide receiver Biren Ealy carries the ball in the second quarter against UTEP Aug. 30, 2003.
Aaron J. Latham
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ quarterback Nic Costa is held aloft by tight end Matt Padron in celebration of Costa's first quarter touchdown against UTEP Aug. 30, 2003.
Aaron J. Latham
UA half back Clarence Farmer raises a finger in the first half against UTEP Aug. 30, 2003.
Max Becherer
Neal Babcock, sophomore student from the UA with an "A" on his chest, cheers after the first goal of the game Aug. 30, 2003.
Max Becherer
UA wide receiver Lance Relford attempts to catch a pass under pressure from UTEP defensive back Tim Woodard Aug. 30, 2003.
Max Becherer
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Wildcats' Chris Henry is taken down by the Miners' Joe Fleskoski in the last quarter of the game Aug. 30, 2003.
Max Becherer
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ wide receiver Ricky Williams carries the ball for the first touchdown in the first quarter of the first game of the season against UTEP at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Stadium Aug. 30, 2003.
Aaron J. Latham
The ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ defense takes down UTEP wide receiver Chris Francies in the first quarter against UTEP at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Stadium Aug. 30, 2003.
Aaron J. Latham
ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ quarterback Ryan O'Hara throws the ball in the second quarter against UTEP at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Stadium Aug. 30, 2003.
Aaron J. Latham
The University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ football team enters the field to fanfare and fireworks for the first game of the season against UTEP at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Stadium Aug. 30, 2003.
Aaron J. Latham
Wildcat defensive tackle Daniel Greer sacks Iowa quarterback Kyle McCann for a loss in the first quarter in the home opener of the UA football season at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Stadium Sept. 19, 1998.
Jeffry Scott / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
Fans in the stands cover up from the rain before the start of Saturday night's home opener for the UA Wildcats Sept. 13, 1997.
Benjie Sanders / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
UA quarterback Keith Smith runs in the home opener for the Wildcats against the University of Alabama-Birmingham Sept. 13, 1997.
Benjie Sanders / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
UA Tight End Mike Lucky (88) catches a first quarter pass in the home opener against University of Alabama-Birmingham linebacker Shawn Alexander Sept. 13, 1997.
Jeffry Scott / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
UA tackle Joe Salave'a (56) puts pressure on UAB quarterback Lee Jolly during the Wildcats' home opener at ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ Stadium Sept. 13, 1997.
Benjie Sanders, ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
Fans weather a rain storm during the Wildcats' home opener against The University of Alabama-Birmingham Sept. 13, 1997.
Jeffry Scott / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
UA stadium with an ultra wide fisheye lens, Oct. 1994.
Bruce McClelland / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥
Wildcats can still train despite shelter-in-place recommendation
Despite recommendations from Pima County and the University of ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ this week for campus-area occupants to shelter in place for 14 days, UA athletic workouts have been allowed to continue.
All UA sports have been operating under COVID-19 protocols that govern testing, mask-wearing and cleanliness, among other things. Because the protocols have already been approved by the university, workouts will be allowed to continue, ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ athletics spokesman Matt Ensor, as some university research functions also are.
However, the shelter-in-place recommendation does apply to athletes outside of their workouts. The Pima County Health department has recommended students living on or near campus leave their homes only to attend essential classes, to work or to obtain necessities through Sept. 29.
— Bruce Pascoe
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