The return of students to the campus of the University of Alabama has brought large crowds to bars and sparked frustration from at least one Crimson Tide football player.
Senior offensive lineman Chris Owens shared a photo Sunday afternoon on Twitter of The Strip in Tuscaloosa, where a long line of people – many wearing no masks – were formed outside a bar:
The photo editor of the school’s student newspaper shared more photos of crowds outside bars and a lack of masked wear at those establishments:
Kristen Saban Setas, the daughter of coach Nick Saban, added her voice to the issue on Sunday afternoon:
Owens’ public frustration with the crowd comes a day after Auburn wide receiver Anthony Schwartz shared similar feelings about crowds of people without masks on that campus of the school after students returned.
Alabama begins Wednesday classes and students must be tested for COVID-19 before arriving on campus. However, the school has banned large gatherings and set rules on face coverage and social distance.
Nick Saban notes that the SEC moved the beginning of its football season back to September 26 in part to assess how the return of students to campus affected the COVID-19 positivity figures among footballers, who have been under control in recent weeks is maintained by strict procedures for players.
Alabama athletic director Greg Byrne said last week that the university has tried to create an “umbrella” about its players, but not necessarily a “bubble.” Players still have freedom around campus, though quarterback Mac Jones and running back Najee Harris said Friday that they generally stick to themselves.
Owens has spoken out in recent days about dealing with the virus, and last week called for “failed leadership” if one reason football season remains in doubt.
Mike Rodak is an Alabama beat reporter for Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @mikerodak.
