LSU head coach Ed Orgeron met with the media on Tuesday and claimed that “most” of his players had tested positive for COVID-19.
The comment received quite a bit of attention on the national level.
On Wednesday, LSU athletic director Scott Woodward met with the media via teleconference and discussed Orgeron’s comments and LSU’s handling of COVID-19, per Glenn Guilbeau of the Lafayette Daily Advertiser.
The Tigers had an outbreak back in June where over 30 players contracted the virus after visiting some bars near campus.
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Woodward was adamant the spike in COVID-19 cases began outside of LSU’s football facilities.
This is anecdotal, and this is Scott Woodward’s opinion. I think the vast majority of them have happened socially. And I’m very comfortable, even though there’s no parallel or longitudinal study, saying I don’t think they received it at practice or in our weight room. I think the protocols are good.
Woodward maintained the battle isn’t over and LSU students and those in and around Baton Rouge must stay vigilant in following social-distancing guidelines and comply with mask mandates.
He is proud of how LSU’s medical experts have handled the virus, most notably associate athletic trainer Shelly Mullenix and Dr. Katie O’Neal.
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Really two unsung heroes and they have just been phenomenal on this COVID-19 protocol and how we’re doing it and advising us,” Woodward said.
Finally, Woodward touched on Orgeron’s comments and, while he appreciated Orgeron’s honesty, he wished his coach had said less.
“Coach O was a bit too transparent, and a bit too forthright, and I’m very pleased with where we are,” Woodward said.
LSU opens the season on Sept. 26 against Mississippi State.
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