Florida fans will have to wait another week to see the 2014 Gators play. The season opener that was scheduled against Idaho on Saturday evening was suspended.
Following a two hour and 48 minute delay, the game started at 9:50 with the Vandals kicking off. Valdez Showers returned the kick for 64 yards to the Idaho 14. Immediately after the play was blown dead, both teams were escorted off the field as more lightning was in the area.
The game was ruled “suspended” shortly thereafter.
The UF communications staff released a statement regarding the decision to terminate the game, as well as options moving forward:
“Game officials for the Florida-Idaho football game, as well as athletics directors from both schools, in conjunction with the Southeastern Conference, have determined that the game between the Gators and Vandals has been terminated. This is due to weather, unsafe and unplayable field conditions at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium on Saturday night. If the game is rescheduled, then it would be restarted as a new game. That determination will be made and announced at a later time, including ticket information.”
Florida coach Will Muschamp also released a statement following the game’s termination:
“We appreciate the fans coming out and supporting us and sitting through several weather delays,” Muschamp said in a release. “It was amazing the energy and passion shown in the stands all night. The Gator Nation showed why they're the best fans in the country, starting with one of the most enthusiastic Gator Walks that we've had since I've been here.”
Since the game was suspended before the fourth quarter and is not able to resume, there are four possible options per the NCAA:
1.) Resume the game at a later date.
2.) Terminate the game with a final score.
3.) Forfeit the game.
4.) Declare it a no contest.
Although both teams do have bye weeks on Oct. 25, there has been no word on when or whether or not the two teams will reschedule.
Follow Morgan Moriarty on Twitter @Morgan_Moriarty
Fans wait out the weather delay during Florida's suspended game against Idaho at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium on Saturday night. The game was announced a no contest on Wednesday.
