Oklahoma AD Objects to Ole Miss Game’s One-Day Delay

The Oklahoma-Ole Miss football game will be played on November 15 at 1 p.m. ET, a day later than scheduled, after flight shutdowns on November 13 disrupted the Rebels’ travel plans. The game is at Oklahoma’s Memorial Stadium in Norman; it had been set for November 14 at 4 p.m. ET.

Oklahoma athletic director Roger Denny said the Sooners understood the unusual circumstances but objected to the change, arguing that it treated the team, university and fans unfairly. He said Oklahoma had promptly contacted Ole Miss and conference officials after learning of the travel problem, and was told the Rebels had tried other ways to reach Norman in time.

Denny said Southeastern Conference Commissioner Greg Sankey ordered the Sunday game despite Oklahoma’s objections. He also told the university that refusing to play at the assigned time would mean a forfeit, Denny said. Oklahoma will play as directed, though Denny maintained the decision was wrong. The school planned to provide details on game arrangements and accommodations for fans on November 14.

Other college games affected by the flight shutdown were rescheduled within November 14. Auburn-Mississippi State shifted from noon to 4:15 p.m. ET, while Washington-Michigan State moved from 4:15 to 5:30 p.m. ET. Changes to the other listed games ranged from a two-hour delay for Tulane-Rice to a three-hour delay for Utah-Arizona.