If a student at the University of Virginia cared that much about college football, he or she would not schedule a class past noon on Friday in the first place. However, the school is preventing its more casual fans from enjoying a proper game day experience for the Cavaliers’ biggest game of the year.
It will not cancel classes!
Don’t get me wrong, I understand the important of academics— especially at a school like Virginia. With that being said, I cannot imagine the lack of impact one missed class will have on the overall curriculum when college football (and collegiate athletics in general) ultimately serve as the biggest brand ambassador for the university.
Virginia hosts Florida State on Friday.
The Cavaliers are not supposed to be very good this year. They were picked to finish 14th out of 17 in the Atlantic Coast Conference prior to the season (as if that means anything).
And yet, the Hoos find themselves at 3-1.
Although I do not expect Virginia to go on a miraculous run to the College Football Playoff, its remaining schedule is not that hard on paper. Bowl eligibility is well within reach. Even the ACC could be up for grabs with Clemson’s struggles! It starts with eighth-ranked Florida State at home on Friday.
- vs. Florida State
- at Louisville
- vs. Washington State
- at UNC
- at Cal
- vs. Wake Forest
- at Duke
- vs. Virginia Tech
There are three wins in there somewhere. Maybe more.
Plus, college football is a crazy sport where anything can happen. It is not impossible for the Hoos to beat the Seminoles but they will need a lot of lucky breaks and a raucous environment.
Therein lies the issue…
The administration does not care about college football.
Kickoff is currently scheduled for 7:00 p.m. ET on Friday night. If I am to do the math based on my own college experience, that means the tailgate for students begins… during lunch. At the latest.
All of the common folk will presumably get involved after work around around 4:00 or 5:00.
Unfortunately, there will be logistical challenges for both sides. Adult fans will have to deal with the school day. Students will have class. Virginia refuses to cancel!
Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Jennifer Davis sent the following email:
“The University is preparing for a home football game this Friday, September 26, against Florida State at Scott Stadium with kickoff at 7:00 p.m. I and writing to share information about how the impacts of this night game will begin earlier in the day.
“Although there are logistical challenges to hosting a large event on a weeknight, the University is committed to maintaining a regular schedule for all activities. No classes will be canceled…”
Booooooooooooooooooo!!!! If the Cavaliers were serious about football, they would create the rowdiest home field advantage possible for a game against the No. 8 team in the country on ESPN.
That starts with canceling classes.