The story of Big Ten's football season has more twists and turns than a George R.R. Martin novel.
On the same day the President attempted to help the conference get back on the field, Dan Patrick reported on his radio show that "if the conference can pass updated safety measures and procedures," the season will commence on Oct. 10.
Now, with each twist and turn, the Big Ten office has been quick to remind the public through the media that its decision was final and no changes are expected. And surely they'll do the same here. On the surface, an Oct. 10 start date seems difficult to achieve, even on the most optimistic timelines. Teams would have to on-board any players that scattered, and a month's worth of preseason camp would require them to begin one week from right now. After Patrick's report hit the air, Pete Thamel published this at Yahoo: To say multiple sources denied the notion of the Big Ten playing immediately would be strong enough. The sources heartily laughed at it. The notion of playing around Thanksgiving is in embryonic discussion, and there’s a desire among coaches to start as early as possible. But “immediately” is in another universe, especially with multiple Big Ten teams not even having players on campus right now. Afterward, Nebraska AD Bill Moos shot the rumor down with a rifle.
Earlier today, Iowa beat writer Scott Dochterman published a hypothetical 8-game Big Ten schedule that would begin Oct. 17 and conclude Dec. 5.
As always, stay tuned to The Scoop for the latest.