Cal – Stanford game postponed due to wildfire, unhealthy air quality
The annual Big Game between Stanford and California scheduled for Saturday was postponed two weeks because of the unhealthy air quality in the Bay Area from a wildfire some 150 miles to the north.
🗣️ Statement From Coach Wilcox pic.twitter.com/mQasLnfGPM
— Cal Football (@CalFootball) November 16, 2018
Cal announced Friday that the game would be played Dec. 1 with a noon kickoff at Memorial Stadium.
“First and foremost our thoughts are with everyone who has been affected by the tragic California wildfires,†Golden Bears football coach Justin Wilcox said in a Twitter post. “While we realize the importance of the Big Game right now, our thoughts are centered around so many who have been so deeply affected. Our primary factors in making the decision to postpone the game were centered around the health and safety of our student-athletes, fans and everyone involved in putting on the game. We look forward to seeing you in Berkeley on Dec. 1.â€
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This is the just the second postponement of the Big Game between Cal (6-4, 3-4 Pac-12) and Stanford (6-4, 4-3). It was delayed one week in 1963 following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. The rival schools have been playing each year since 1892. With the exception of breaks during World Wars I and II.
Stanford noted the schools tried to hold off a final decision until Saturday. However, the forecast shows air quality isn’t expected to sufficiently improve.
