Michigan-Iowa game canceled due to COVID

An ongoing COVID-19 outbreak at Michigan has forced the Wolverines to cancel their football game at No. 18 Iowa on Saturday.

This will be the third straight game canceled. The Wolverines didn’tplayDec. 5 athomeagainst Maryland or lastweek at No. 3 Ohio State.

The Michigan athletic department said in a statement the decision on the Iowa game was made after conversations among medical experts, health advisers and university administration.

Athletic director Warde Manuel said the teamwould be without a significantnumber of players because of COVID-19 and, coupled with attrition because of injuries, would not have enough players atmultiple positions. He said there would be more than 50 players unavailable because of positive tests and contact tracing requirements.

Indiana-Purdue cancel rivalry game

Indiana and Purdue have squared off on the football field every year since 1920.

Now, their rivalry game for the Old Oaken Bucket has been canceled for the second time in twoweeks — and the third time this season. Athletic directors Scott Dolson and Mike Bobinski said Friday’s game had been scrappedbecause of continuing concerns over COVID-19.

“Aswe stated lastweek, we know the history and tradition of this great rivalry game and how much it means to our current students, alumni and fans,“they saidTuesday. “Both universities worked extremely hard in an effort to play, but at this time it just isn’t possible.”

The finalmonthof the season, including bowl games, is likely to be affected by the pandemic, just as the regular seasonwas. Approximately 125 games since late August have beenpostponed or canceled, including the Frisco Bowl scheduled for Saturday: SMU had to withdraw fromthegameabout25 miles fromits Dallas campusandits opponent, UTSA, is switching to the First Responders Bowl at SMU’s stadium Dec. 26 against a teamto be determined later.