Oklahoma, Big 12 listen to its athletes in regards to concerns about playing, not playing

Oklahoma, Big 12 listen to its athletes in regards to concerns about playing, not playing

Times are changing for college football.

Players voices across all sports are being heard more, and it was only a matter of time before it made its way to college football.

Big 12 Commissioner Bob Bowlsby said in a statement Wednesday he gave players a chance to speak on the recent issues surrounding college football.

“What we’ve heard from our student-athletes is they’d like to play, but they want to make sure it’s safe. They want to know what the eligibility implications are, and they want to know that their financial aid is secure.”

Players within the Pac-12 have recently made demands regarding their image and likeness, and Clemson QB Trevor Lawrence recently helped form a players’ association.

While it is important to hear the players out, Bowlsby said that ultimately the decision still falls on his and the rest of the conferences shoulders.

“I think it’s my obligation along with our athletic directors and others to try and do what we can to optimize the experience that our young people have. And that certainly includes a postseason” he said.

Oklahoma released their revised nine-game scheduled on Wednesday. The Sooners will kick off their 2020 season against Missouri State on September 12.

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