Amid new COVID policies set by the College Football Playoff, two Alabama assistant coaches tested positive for the virus and have shown mild symptoms. Offensive coordinator Bill O’Brien and offensive line coach Doug Marrone are not with the team, and are currently under isolation in quarantine.
With top-ranked Alabama’s CFP semifinal matchup in the Cotton Bowl against No. 4 Cincinnati, and No. 2 Michigan facing No. 3 Georgia in the Orange Bowl just days away, health and safety protocols are key to ensure teams are able to play and not forfeit.
Today, the Crimson Tide arrived in Arlington, Texas to begin prepping for the game on-site.
Upon arrival, Saban spoke on the current state of his team with respect to COVID.
The Alabama head coach stated today that the team has not had a player test positive, and none of them are in protocols and unable to practice.
Saban said they haven’t had any players test positive or enter COVID protocols.
— Michael Casagrande (@ByCasagrande) December 26, 2021
He also went on to explain that O’Brien and Marrone will still be coaching, but doing so remotely and virtually while they await to be released from protocols and can return to coach at the game.
Nick Saban said OC Bill O'Brien and OL coach Doug Marrone will both coach the team virtually until they are cleared from COVID protocol. Joe Pendry will join the on-field coaching staff in the meantime.
— Tony Tsoukalas (@Tony_Tsoukalas) December 26, 2021
Roll Tide Wire will continue to cover the Crimson Tide as the team prepares to take on Cincinnati in the Cotton Bowl.
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