TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — The University of Alabama announced Thursday several changes to gameday operations because of the forecast for severe weather and high winds.
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No. 2 Georgia is set to travel to Tuscaloosa to face No. 6 Alabama in a top-10 SEC showdown that could have major implications for the conference title race and College Football Playoff picture.
The matchup is widely considered the marquee game of Week 6 and features two undefeated teams entering the weekend.
The game itself remains scheduled as planned.
Tailgating will not be permitted on campus before noon Saturday. After noon, only uncovered tailgating will be allowed, weather permitting.
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Fans also will not be allowed to drop off or set up tailgating supplies Friday anywhere on campus. Any supplies placed before noon Saturday will be removed and discarded, the university said.
Corporate tailgating vendors, including Gameday Done Right, will also not set up on the Quad because of the expected overnight weather.
Fans can access the Quad and other campus gathering areas after noon, but those areas must first be inspected and deemed safe. Power and electrical services on the Quad will not be restored until the university determines conditions are safe.
Parking, shuttles delayed
Campus parking lots and shuttle services are currently scheduled to open at noon Saturday.
Fans attempting to park on campus before then will be turned away until the lots officially open.
Shuttle buses will begin operating once parking lots open, although sustained winds could cause additional delays.
Fans with parking passes purchased through Clutch! will receive updates directly if conditions change.
Pregame events canceled
Several pregame activities have also been canceled because of the weather.
Those include:
- All activities on and around the Quad
- Champions Lane activities
- The public announcement of the successful conclusion of the Rising Tide 2.0 capital campaign, which had been scheduled for Friday night at Gorgas Library
The Elephant Stomp is also not currently planned.
The Walk of Champions is expected to continue approximately 2 ½ hours before kickoff.
ESPN College GameDay moving inside
ESPN’s College GameDay will also look different Saturday because of the weather.
The program will be held inside Coleman Coliseum. The north and east doors will open at 5:30 a.m., while fans can begin lining up at 5:15 a.m.
Overnight queuing and camping outside Coleman Coliseum will not be permitted because of the anticipated weather.
Only clear bags will be allowed inside Coleman Coliseum and will be inspected upon entry.
The field goal kick will also take place inside Coleman.
The university said it is continuing to monitor conditions and could make additional changes if necessary. Fans are encouraged to stay alert to weather updates and make responsible decisions about travel and shelter.
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The Associated Press contributed to this article.