Tennessee drops out of Liberty Bowl after coach Jeremy Pruitt, others test positive for COVID-19
Tennessee has dropped out of the Liberty Bowl and paused team activities after positive COVID-19 tests results stemming from Sunday's testing.
Tennessee coach Jeremy Pruitt was among those who tested positive. Pruitt said in a statement that he is experiencing mild symptoms but was "doing fine."
The Vols (3-7) on Sunday had been selected to play against West Virginia (5-4) in the Dec. 31 bowl game (4 p.m. ET, ESPN) in Memphis. Army (9-2) was announced as a replacement.
"The test results revealed an increase in positive cases among student-athletes and staff and subsequent contact tracing," Tennessee announced in a statement. "The decision was made in consultation with health officials, the Southeastern Conference and the AutoZone Liberty Bowl.
AMWAY COACHES POLL BALLOTS: Dabo Swinney ranks Ohio State at No. 11; Cincinnati had support
"The student-athletes and staff affected are taking the appropriate safety measures in accordance with University, CDC and local health department guidelines. The University of Tennessee extends its sincere appreciation to the AutoZone Liberty Bowl and the city of Memphis and is disappointed it will not be able to fulfill its commitment on New Year's Eve."
The Volunteers will enter the offseason following a disappointing season in which they lost seven of their final eight games.
Tennessee had two games postponed during the regular season, but neither postponement stemmed from COVID-19 issues within its program, and both games were rescheduled and played.
Tennessee is the first SEC team to drop out of its bowl game.
"Earlier today, I was informed by our medical staff that I have tested positive for COVID-19, and I immediately began isolating at home," Pruitt said in a statement. "I am experiencing mild symptoms but doing fine. We are obviously disappointed that we will not be able to play in the AutoZone Liberty Bowl, but the health and safety of our student-athletes will always remain our top priority. I am especially proud of our team and medical staff in safely navigating through a unique season where we played all 10 of our regular-season games."