The university football world speaks out one by one to express opinion on the question of whether the season should be played.
SEC coaches are no different.
Alabama coach Nick Saban on Monday spoke out for the players and their desire to play next season.
On a day that began with a report the Big Ten was planning to cancel next season, many in the sector took to social media to express their support for a season. Jim Harbaugh, Michigan coach, said in a statement that the virus could be treated, while Nebraska coach Scott Frost said his team would look at other options if the Big Ten cancel the season.
Many SEC coaches, athletic directors and administrators spoke out on social media Monday, standing in front of the players who want to play.
Alabama athletic director Greg Byrne is all-in with the Crimson Tide.
“Strongly support our student-athletes, coaches & staff and praise our leadership of the @SEC, @UofAlabama & @UASystem for their direction and guidance as we navigate these issues. #WeWantToPlay #RollTide”.
LSU athletic director Scott Woodward issued a statement.
“We remain steadfast in our approach to the Southeast Conference, and take all available time to gather as much information as possible to make informed decisions. We are united in our process and our focus on the safety and well-being of our student-athletes. The recent flood of reports on university athletics does not change this approach. As stated since the beginning, we have been patiently working through each variable toward our Return to Task Force for safety and medical guidance. I believe our student-athletes want to play. We owe it to her to do everything possible to make this safe. ”
Florida coach Dan Mullen pointed to medical protocol and plans to fight to ensure his players get a chance to play.
“I’m so proud of our players,” tweeted Dan Mullen of Florida. “Their commitment to medical guidelines to stay safe has shown that they have the resolution in preparing the right path for the season. They deserve to play this fall. They have worked so hard here. Let’s fight for them and find a way. #WeWantToPlay”
“This afternoon, I met with our football team and staff to have an open conversation about football this fall,” tweeted UT Chancellor Donde Plowman. “At the end of our discussion I asked if they wanted to play football and the answer was a resounding YES.”
“Our players want to play!” Ole Miss coach Lane Kiffin tweeted. “Our staff wants to coach them! I’m so proud of our team #WeWantToPlay. ”
Mississippi State tweets a powerful video with the hashtag: #WeWantToPlay.
Bulldogs athletic director John Cohen tweeted the video again in full support of his players.
“Love the passion, perseverance and resilience displayed by all of our student-athletes, especially in these ever-changing circumstances,” Cohen said. “We will continue to support our student-athletes, coaches and staff, while keeping their health and safety our top priority.
Arkansas coach Sam Pittman was complimented by his players and staff.
“The way our student athletes have handled these uncertain times is incredible and our staff is so proud of them. As the head coach of Arkansas. #WeWantToPlay.
Texas A&M athletic director Ross Bjork supports his footballers.
‘Love the work ethic of @AggieFootball. Despite some uncertainty, they remain concentrated on their craft & passion for the game of football. We support them at the highest level in all facets of their health & safety. #WeWantToPlay. ”
Mark Heim is a sports reporter for The Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @Mark_Heim.
