More serious news has come out of the SEC regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, as one of the most prominent head coaches in the sport tested positive for the virus.

Alabama’s athletic department confirmed in a statement that head coach Nick Saban and athletic director Greg Byrne has tested positive for COVID-19. Offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian will take oversee operations while Saban works from home.

“I found out earlier this afternoon that I had tested positive for COVID-19,” Saban said in a statement. “I immediately left work and isolated at home. At this time, I do not have any symptoms relative to COVID, and I have taken another PCR test to confirm my diagnosis. I informed our team of my positive test at 2 p.m. today on a Zoom call and let them know offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian will oversee preparations at the complex while I work from home.”

“Today, I received notice that my COVID-19 test from this morning cam back positive,” said Byrne. “Upon hearing the news, I immediately entered self-isolation and will remain at home and follow all guidelines. We’ve been diligent about mask wearing and social distancing from the start and want to encourage you all to take the necessary precautions to help stop the spread of this virus for yourself and those around you.”

Already, two SEC games have been canceled this weekend due to COVID-19 related issues. Missouri-Vanderbilt and LSU-Florida have both been rescheduled for Saturday, Dec. 12.

Alabama is scheduled to play Georgia this weekend.