SEC moves to a 10-game, conference-only football season

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The Southeastern Conference will play a 10 game, conference-only football season this fall.

SEC member school presidents approved the plan Thursday based on the rising numbers of COVID-19 cases.

“This new plan for a football schedule is consistent with the educational goals of our universities to allow for the safe and orderly return to campus of their student populations and to provide a healthy learning environment during these unique circumstances presented by the COVID-19 virus,” said SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey in a statement. “This new schedule supports the safety measures that are being taken by each of our institutions to ensure the health of our campus communities.

“After careful consideration of the public health indicators in our region and following advice of our medical advisors, we have determined that this is the best course of action to prepare for a safe and healthy return to competition for SEC student-athletes, coaches and others associated with our sports programs.”

The SEC season is now scheduled to start Sept. 26, and the SEC championship will be played Dec. 19.

Mississippi schools in the SEC include the University of Mississippi and Mississippi State University.