Texas head coach Tom Herman has expressed concerns with the new Big 12 Coronavirus (COVID-19) guidelines.
In such a time of uncertainty, it’s unclear whether or not the 2020 football season will start on time, be postponed, or canceled altogether. The coaches understandably want to have their athletes as prepared as possible.
On Sunday night, the Big 12 released new guidelines regarding how athletic departments should function over the next 60 days. Although the mandate features positive updates such as allowing virtual meetings between coaches and student-athletes that can last up for two hours per week, Herman expressed during media availability (via teleconference) on Monday that he doesn’t understand why sending players workout equipment is prohibited.
Texas football coach Tom Herman said he and other Big 12 coaches are not happy with their inability to send players workout equipment. Said the playing field is not level.
— Anwar Richardson (@AnwarRichardson) March 30, 2020
Although Herman did reiterate that the safety and well-being of his athletes is top priority, he mentioned that the NCAA rules can be a slippery slope. They’re able to send nutritional supplements, university-issued apparel, and light training devices such as stretch bands to players.
During these unusual times, the leadership of veteran players will be key.
Herman on the 2020 Longhorns: "Leadership and experience are definitely our strengths right now."
— Brian Davis (@BDavisAAS) March 30, 2020
The Longhorns are expected to hold their first team web conference on Tuesday. In terms of recruiting, Herman confirms that the communication with 2021 recruits has not diminished.
Apparently creativity is also key. Players are currently attempting to retain or gain muscle mass away from campus, linebacker Cort Jaquess posted his homemade workout routine via Twitter.
No weight room, no problem @HomeDepot pic.twitter.com/AFZKaELASQ
— Cort Jaquess (@jaysoncort89) March 30, 2020