Oklahoma coach Lincoln Riley says COVID-19 cases threatened game vs. Missouri State – ESPN

NORMAN, Okla.– Oklahoma football coach Lincoln Riley verified after the No. 5 Sooners opening victory over Missouri State that the video game Saturday night had actually been jeopardy of being held off or canceled since of the Sooners COVID-19 cases.
Earlier, the Springfield News-Leader reported that Missouri State president Clif Smart informed the schools board of guvs that the video game had been in doubt.
” It hung in the balance for a little bit, however we had the ability to do it,” Riley said after the 48-0 triumph. “Thankfully, we had the ability to.”
A number of Oklahoma gamers were out, including kicker Gabe Brkic and running back T.J. Pledger. Brkic was a preseason second-team All-American. Pledger was noted as the beginning running back. Anton Harrison, a real freshman who was listed as the beginning left deal with, also did not play.
Riley wouldnt validate why they were out. He stated previously in the week that he would no longer release team COVID-19 screening outcomes.
The offensive line was especially difficult hit with unavailable gamers.

Numerous Oklahoma gamers were out, consisting of kicker Gabe Brkic and running back T.J. Pledger. I want it was 3,” Riley stated. We had to move some guys around to make tonight work, and those guys, with their experience in the system and game experience, were able to do that.”

I wish it was 3,” Riley said. We had to move some guys around to make tonight work, and those guys, with their experience in the system and game experience, were able to do that.”
He stated he felt the personnel managed the circumstance well.
” Its either one of two things– you either see it as an obstacle and you state bad me and youre mad youre in the scenario and disappointed, or you look at it as an opportunity,” he said. “A chance to see some new gamers that possibly you wouldnt have actually seen, a chance as coaches to evaluate yourselves and have the ability to change when things come up.”