Franklin Connection - Serving Franklin County, WA

PULLMAN - The Rolovich era will begin in 2020 after all for WSU football as the Pac-12 CEO Group voted Thursday, Sept. 24, to resume athletics competition Nov. 6.

The team will play seven games, all within the conference. No fans will be allowed at any PAC-12 football venue.

WSU will also not host tailgating.

The CEO Group noted that the decision to resume play - which had been postponed to no earlier than Jan. 1 - was based on updated Pac-12 COVID-19 Medical Advisory Committee recommendations, which considered changes in testing capability, the prevalence of the virus and cardiac issues, and current input from state and local health officials.

"At the heart of every decision we have made as an institution and a conference has been the health, safety and well-being of our student-athletes, coaches and staff," WSU Athletic Director Patrick Chun said. "Going forward, the resiliency and commitment of our Cougar student-athletes should be applauded. They have adapted to unforeseen adversity and have not wavered in their commitment to their respective teams."

The announcement also establishes that play will resume only for teams which have necessary state and local health department approvals.

The CEO group set a Nov. 25 start date for men's and women's basketball.