Severe flooding and a state of emergency in Columbia forced the school to move Saturday’s game against the Tigers from Williams-Brice Stadium to Death Valley.
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Storms and record rainfall produced by Hurricane Joaquin caused widespread damage in South Carolina and could force the university to move Saturday’s game against LSU.
The busy day of action is expected to get underway at 12:00 p.m. with LSU meeting South Carolina.
Prior to the official announcement that the game had been moved, South Carolina coach Steve Spurrier said on Wednesday morning’s SEC teleconference, said that he would abide by whatever decision was made. The main issue lies within availability of water to the city of Columbia, status of highways and the availability of first responders who normally work football games.
LSU heard suggestions they should paint the field South Carolina colors, but Alleva said the school couldn’t do that because the Tigers play Florida at home the next week.
“It doesn’t really matter to me that the game is being played away from Columbia”, said Wilds.
That was the second-most astounding game projection this season, with its home challenge against adversary Clemson on November. 28 anticipated that would acquire more than $4.2 million in ticket income. Also, in case you missed it, the University of South Carolina has cancelled all classes for the remainder of the week.
Unfortunately, the Gamecocks will not have their marching band present for what is officially a home game due to the last-minute nature of the relocation. Decision was made after meetings involving South Carolina, LSU and SEC officials, as well as local South Carolina government offices.
The team’s equipment truck and managers will all leave after Thursday’s practice, following their normal schedule for road games, said equipment manager Chris Matlock. “We have been through similar situations before so we are better prepared than most of the country to deal with these types of problems”.
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Student tickets will cost $5. These tickets will need to be printed by the purchaser prior to the game and brought to the game to be scanned at the gates. Season permit holders are urged to retain their Western Kentucky pass following the South Carolina game, as it will be needed to park for that game on October 24.
