The 2020 SEC football season just got a little less traditional.
Per SI.com, the conference has delayed the beginning of fall camp until Aug. 17 and has put in some stipulations.
“As part of the plan, teams can practice 25 times over a 40-day period beginning on Aug. 17, sources tell Sports Illustrated. During that time, schools must adhere to the NCAA’s normal in-season football access time of 20 countable hours a week. Two days off each week are required. The new preseason plan expands the SEC’s practice window by 11 days, providing flexibility for more off days and potential COVID-19 related interruptions.”
This announcement comes on the heels of the conference deciding last Thursday to go to a 10-game, conference-only schedule. Many teams, including Auburn, were set to begin practice sometime before Aug. 17.
“Many SEC staffs were preparing to begin camp at their scheduled time this weekend. The league is allowing coaches to continue the current 20-hour per week model until Friday. From Friday through Aug. 16, staffs will be restricted to 11 hours a week of football or strength work related events (six hours for strength and five hours for football). Their walk-throughs must be conducted without equipment. That includes no footballs, helmets or pads. In this enhanced access period, Friday to Aug. 16, teams have been granted three extra hours for non-football related meetings.”
No matter how it is done, at least we will hopefully see some college football this fall.