Iowa to Only Play Conference Foes This Fall

The Big Ten Conference has announced that if football is to proceed this fall, each team will only play 10 games and only against in-conference opponents. A Sports Illustrated article states that the Pac-12 is likely to make a similar announcement after the Ivy League was the first to do so this week.

This, of course, means, the Iowa vs. Iowa State and Iowa/U.N.I. games will not be played this season. The decision applies to all other Fall sports including men’s and women’s cross country, field hockey, men’s and women’s soccer, and women’s volleyball.

As far as football is concerned, the decision will impact many games that were scheduled by Big Ten schools against schools from other Power 5 conferences.

In a press release, Iowa Athletic Director Gary Barta said "we fully support the actions being taken by the Big Ten Conference, knowing that the health, safety, and wellness of our student-athletes, coaches, and staff is the top priority. The past few months have entailed numerous conversations between my conference colleagues, Commissioner Warren and our Big Ten presidents, as we have worked to navigate the challenges associated with this pandemic. The uncertainties have been difficult on our student-athletes and coaches and I appreciate their continued understanding of the situation. I am grateful for our fans who are also waiting for direction. While many uncertainties still exist, today’s decision will provide the greatest amount of flexibility as we move forward".

A lot more details will be released soon, and the conference also noted that summer sports will continue to be voluntary.