WACO, TX — The highly sought-after match-up between Baylor and Houston at McLane Stadium has been postponed, and will not be played on Sept. 19, Baylor University announced Friday.
This decision comes as a result of Baylor not meeting the Big 12 Conference COVID-19 game cancellation thresholds.
Bears informed UH that test results put their O-line (positives + tracing) below the Big 12 minimum threshold, sources tell Sports Illustrated.
Both Baylor and Houston have agreed to honor the future home and home schedule, as well as monitor dates for future scheduling opportunities.
"The loss of this game is a devastating blow, but in the interest of the health and safety of our student-athletes, we believe we made the necessary decision," said Baylor Director of Athletics Mack B. Rhoades. "We are incredibly disappointed with the continued delay to the start of our season, and empathize with our student-athletes, fans, coaches, and administrative staff. We are grateful for the support and understanding of the University of Houston, Athletic director Chris Pezman, and Chancellor Khator. We look forward to a future home and home match-up."
"We're heartbroken from this postponement," said Head Coach Dave Aranda. "While we've been eager to play football this fall, we have all made a commitment to only do so with the highest level of safety and care for our student-athletes. We are disappointed for our team, staff, and our fans, but look forward with great anticipation to renewing this rivalry in the future."
As additional information is released, future game dates and times will be communicated to original ticket holders via email to the email address on file.
The game was announced last week and was set to take place Sept. 19 at McLane Stadium as the season opener for both programs.
The contest with Houston replaced the postponed game with Louisiana Tech that was scheduled for Sept. 12 and was also canceled.
