Didn’t want to lose a blowout? FSU reportedly ‘backed out’ of Clemson game

Saturday’s game between Clemson and Florida State was postponed 3 hours before kickoff. The ACC released a vague statement about why the game wasn’t played, citing a disagreement between medical experts.

What the disagreement was remains to be seen, but one reporter says Clemson met the criteria to play and Florida State backed out:

In talking to a trusted source, Clemson met the criteria to play. Clemson met with the ACC, and the conference was on board with the game being played. FSU backed out.

— Anna Adams (@AnnaH247) November 21, 2020

At issue was a COVID test for a player who had reportedly been practicing all week after negative tests:

SOURCES: A Clemson back-up offensive lineman tested positive for COVID-19 from a test taken Friday. They received the results after Clemson landed in Tallahassee. The player traveled with the team. FSU officials weren’t comfortable playing because of potential spread.

— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) November 21, 2020

Clemson AD Dan Radakovich released a statement on Twitter expressing his disappointment and saying the Tigers followed protocols:

We are disappointed that we will not be able to play today’s game against Florida State. Clemson has followed all of the ACC's protocol in preparation for this game. We look ahead to returning to action next week against Pitt for Senior Day and Military Appreciation Day. https://t.co/5VJK44iOjL

— Dan Radakovich (@DanRadakovich) November 21, 2020

Florida State coach Mike Norvell also released a statement, citing health and safety (via ESPN.com):

“Our first priority is the health of our student-athletes, and I appreciate the protocols that have been put in place by FSU and the ACC to ensure everyone’s health while allowing us to play this season,” Florida State coach Mike Norvell said in a statement. “It’s unfortunate that we will not have the opportunity to compete today, but we hope to be able to play Clemson in December. I am thankful for the support and coordination between our administration, Clemson and the ACC office. Our team will now turn our focus to hosting Virginia next week.”

Players on both teams seem to be disappointed, too, as they tweeted they were ready to play:

We were too ‼️ We good over here ? https://t.co/RzplTwn8FD

— J Rob (@JanariusD1) November 21, 2020

This is an interesting saga. We’ll see what comes out next.

Adam Spencer

Adam is a daily fantasy sports (DFS) and sports betting expert. A 2012 graduate of the University of Missouri, Adam now covers all 16 SEC football teams. He is the director of DFS, evergreen and newsletter content across all Saturday Football brands.