For the first time in more than a century, Indiana and Purdue will not be playing at the Old Oaken Bucket.
In a joint statement Tuesday, Hoosiers and Boilermakers announced they had canceled the game scheduled for Friday in Bloomington, Indiana, due to concerns about COVID-19 on both programs.
The game was initially scheduled for Dec. 12, but was withdrawn after the two programs stopped football activity last week due to positive cases of coronavirus and contact tracking.
The Boilermakers and Hoosiers have played in all seasons since 1920. The last time the rivalry game was not played in the state was during the flu pandemic in 1918 and 1919.
“According to the advice of our medical professionals and following the guidelines and protocols established for this season, we will not be able to play on Friday,” Purdue Athletic Director Mike Bobinski and Indiana AD Scott said in a joint statement. Dolson.
“As we said last week, we know the history and tradition of this great rivalry game and what it means for our students, alumni and current fans. Both universities worked very hard in an effort to play, but in “It’s not possible. We’re certainly disappointed not to be able to play in 2020, but we look forward to seeing each other on the field next season and competing once again for the Old Oaken Bucket.”
The No. 12 Hoosiers end the regular season with a 6-1 record. They are positioned to play their first big game of bowling since the 1968 Rose Bowl. The Boilers are 2-4.
The Hoosiers will retain the Old Oaken Bucket trophy one more year after last season’s 44-41 victory in two overtime.