Indiana and Purdue have canceled Saturday’s football game because of an increase in COVID-19 cases at each school.
It’s the first time since 1919 that the in-state rivalry won’t be played.
Both teams canceled practice Tuesday, pausing all team activities. On Wednesday, Indiana athletic director Scott Dolson and Purdue AD Mike Bobinski mutually agreed to cancel the game.
“We’re certainly disappointed that we had to cancel the Old Oaken Bucket game,” they said in a joint statement, referring to the trophy that goes to the winner. “We both understand the history and tradition of one of the best rivalries in college football, but the safety and well-being of our student-athletes, coaches and staff is our primary priority. We will continue to monitor the situation on both campuses and listen to the advice of our medical professionals.”
Indiana will keep the trophy for another year after winning last year’s game in overtime. The Hoosiers (6-1) already had clinched the No. 2 seed in the Big Ten East. Purdue (2-4) has lost four in a row.