There was a collective sigh of relief on Tuesday when no positive test results were returned in Tennessee. Unfortunately, two new positive test came back on Wednesday, which leaves this week’s matchup against the Bills in jeopardy.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell stated on Monday that forfeits could be in the future for teams that don’t follow COVID-19 protocols set forth by the league.
Perfectly timed, no?
The Steelers were involved in a bit of a forfeit of their own last week. They were forced to forfeit their originally-scheduled bye week due to the outbreak in Titans camp. An investigation by the NFL is underway as to the extent of the violated procedures.
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When Ben Roethlisberger was asked his thoughts on the potential forfeiture of games during a press conference, he said, “We got the short end of the stick.”
Of course, Roethlisberger refers to the league postponing the Steelers-Titans tilt, eliminating Pittsburgh’s bye week.
Ben Roethlisberger said he doesn't think the Titans will be forced to forfeit the game vs. the Steelers, even if something happens this week because of more positive tests.
Asked if he thinks they got the short end of the stick:
'Of course we got the short end of the stick.'
— Teresa Varley (@Teresa_Varley) October 7, 2020
While unreasonable, it did seem like the best way beyond extending the season. Even if Goodell had announced the Titans would have to forfeit, I don’t think Mike Tomlin and the Steelers would’ve been okay with an easy pass. A win is a win, but not so much when it’s not earned.
My gripe is, how was the NFL not aptly prepared for an outbreak? With the expanded practice squad and active game day rosters, they seemed to be ready for one or two players testing positive, but not for a flurry of positives?
It seems a little ridiculous.
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