ACC introduces new football schedule for 2020 season, going with 'plus-one' model
The ACC has announced it will officially be altering its schedule for the 2020 college football season.
On Wednesday, the league released a statement that it will be moving to a 10-game conference schedule, that includes a “plus-one” model. Essentially, ACC teams will play 10 conference games this fall, and will still be permitted to have one nonconference game.
Notre Dame has been included on the schedule and will be permitted to participate in the ACC Championship Game, according to the release. The Fighting Irish are a member of the conference in several other sports but have maintained an Independent status for football.
From TheACC.com:
“As we look ahead to the fall, the safety of our students, staff and overall campus community continues to be our top priority,” said Kent Syverud, Chancellor of Syracuse University and the Chair of the ACC Board of Directors. “Today’s announcement outlines a specific path for ACC fall sports to return to intercollegiate athletic competition using comprehensive protocols put forward by our ACC Medical Advisory Group. As a league, we understand the need to stay flexible and be prepared to adjust as medical information evolves in conjunction with local and state health guidelines.”
“Today’s decision was made after months of thoughtful planning by numerous individuals throughout the conference,” said ACC Commissioner John Swofford. “The Board’s decision presents a path, if public health guidance allows, to move forward with competition. Our institutions are committed to taking the necessary measures to facilitate the return in a safe and responsible manner. We recognize that we may need to be nimble and make adjustments in the future. We will be as prepared as possible should that need arise.”
The league announced that the first games of the 2020 season will take place on the week of Sept. 7-12. There are two dates for the conference championship game this season, potentially playing on Dec. 12 or Dec. 19.
Below is the complete schedule released by the ACC: