The game was over before it even started. Idaho’s first game of the 2014 season versus the Florida Gators was terminated due to weather conditions. After a two hour and 45 minute lighting strike delay, the game started, but one play later — a 64-yard kickoff return by Florida to the Idaho 15-yard line — another lighting strike hit within an eight mile radius of the stadium.
The field specialist at Florida determined the playing surface was unsafe due to all the rain, and the game was canceled.
“The only thing we know is there are two options — replay the game at a later date or it becomes a no contest. A lot of discussion will follow. Nothing decided,” Rob Spear said in a statement.
Spear told ESPN that both schools will continue discussions next week. A possible date for another game is Oct. 25, both Idaho and Florida both have a bye week then — nothing official has been released by either school concerning that date, though.
It’s not clear whether or not Idaho will receive the paycheck from Florida if the game is indeed canceled.
Florida head coach Will Muschamp released this statement shortly after the game. Courtesy of OnlyGators.com.
“It’s unfortunate that the weather didn’t cooperate for tonight’s season opener. After long discussions with the head referee, it was determined that the field conditions were too dangerous for the student-athletes. As everyone saw with that opening kickoff, I thought that our guys were ready and fired up to play. We appreciate the fans coming out and supporting us and sitting through several weather delays. 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.”
UPDATE: Aug. 30, 8:50 p.m.
A statement from the University of Florida was released — courtesy of University of Idaho Athletic Department:
“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 suspended. This is due to weather, unsafe and unplayable field conditions at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium on Saturday night.“According to the SEC rule book, if a game is suspended before the end of the fourth period and cannot be resumed, there are four possible options:1. Resume the game at a later date;2. Terminate the game with a determined final score;3. Forfeit of the game; or4. Declare a no contest.“The athletics directors from both schools, in consultation with the coaches, must agree on one of the four options listed above. This agreement will include the final score if the game is terminated.“If the game is resumed, it will begin with the same time remaining and under the identical conditions of down, distance, field position and player eligibility.”
We will update this story if there is any new information released.