Drinkwitz: 7 players out due to COVID-19 for football opener

Mizzou football will not have quite as many players out as once thought for the season opener this weekend against Alabama.

Coach Eli Drinkwitz said on Tuesday seven players either have the virus or are in isolation as a close contact. The team thought it was 12 at one point, but got updated info on tests.

Some SEC teams are not revealing many COVID-19 details. Drinkwitz does not agree with that.

“It’s not a competitive advantage issue. This is not an injury we are trying to keep [secret]. This is a public health issue, and people should know what’s going on within our football team as it relates to a pandemic.”

The Tigers are thin along the offensive line heading into their showdown with the Crimson Tide on Saturday night. Drinkwitz says Hyrin White is done for the year with a shoulder injury, and Thalen Robinson has opted out.

You’ll have new fan protocols to follow if you go to Faurot Field for the game. You’ll need to wear a mask and socially distance. Each fan will be assigned to a color-coded “zone” in the stadium, and only use the gates, concession stands, and restrooms in that area. No cash for food, drinks, or tickets. You can go to the Mizzou athletics website if you want to connect through Zoom and have your face on the video board.