Texas A&M has established a reduced capacity, distanced seating plan designed to host fans at Kyle Field as safely as possible.
The university's plan focuses on the recommended health protocols and ensures that attendance during the season will comply with Texas Gov. Greg Abbott’s executive order limiting the normal operating capacity for outdoor sporting venues.
The exact capacity percentage will be determined based on the number of season ticket holders and student sport pass holders who choose to attend.
The football season is scheduled to begin Sept. 26. Initial anticipated attendance to begin the season is approximately 30% of normal stadium operating capacity, but that's subject to change based on state health developments. Kyle Field's capacity is 102,733.
The Aggies are scheduled to host Arkansas on Oct. 31.
Crimson Tide to cap attendance at 20%
Alabama will allow about 20% capacity for games at Bryant-Denny Stadium this season.
The university released its plans for dealing with covid-19 at games, noting seating will be set up to allow social distancing.
The Crimson Tide open their home schedule against Texas A&M on Oct. 3.
LSU numbers good
LSU coach Ed Orgeron says the defending national champion Tigers have had “very few” players test positive for covid-19.
Orgeron said during a video conference Tuesday that the team had “two or three guys that are out” because of positive tests. He did not specify which players had tested positive.
Orgeron says LSU administrators overseeing coronavirus protocols, led by Senior Associate Athletic Director of Health and Wellness Shelly Mullenix, have done a “tremendous job.
“We’re ahead (of) most programs,” Orgeron said. “Our players feel comfortable that they’re getting proper care.”
August camp formally opened on Monday and LSU has had two players opt out because of coronavirus concerns, senior cornerback Kary Vincent Jr. and senior defensive end Neil Farrell Jr.
SEC to allow 'suite-hopping'
The SEC will prohibit “suite hopping” as part of covid-19 guidelines designed for fan safety and health in preparation for conference-only play this season.
Decisions on whether fans can attend games will be made closer to Sept. 26 when the league begins play. Attendance numbers will be left to member schools but must follow state and local guidelines. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommendations should be followed in the absence of those measures.
Furniture in premium seating and clubs shall be arranged to promote physical distancing, the guidelines add. Physical distancing and face coverings will also be stressed there as well as in public areas, including concessions, where barriers must be installed.
The SEC guidelines also suggest “grab and go” food options, with drinks provided directly to spectators and single-serve condiments offered.
SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey said its 14 schools adopted the fan guidelines as a baseline and added, “They provide conference-wide expectations for protection of guests who are able to attend our games.”