Alabama fans stay committed to Georgia game despite storm concerns
By Zoe Blair
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TUSCALOOSA, Alabama (WVTM) — The Georgia-Alabama football game is still set to take place Saturday in Tuscaloosa, but Tropical Storm Isaias has created uncertainty about the weather and its potential impact on the event.
When asked about attending the game, President Donald Trump said, “A hurricane is going in the vicinity of Alabama, that’s not good. Certainly I will let the hurricane determine. I want people to be safe, that’s all.”
In Tuscaloosa, fans expressed mixed feelings about the weather, with many prioritizing their plans to attend the game and College GameDay.
“Rain, storm, or shine, we’re going to be there supporting Alabama,” said Alabama fan Kayla Fields.
“I just got my poncho today, so I’m like fully prepared. We are there,” added Sophie Knotts.
William Schaefer shared his determination, saying, “I will be there no matter what.”
Matthew Diamond acknowledged the weather concerns but remained confident in Alabama’s chances, saying, “Of course I am concerned, but I mean, the weather would only delay the inevitable, you know, Georgia ain’t ready.”
Dylan Hoffman expressed excitement for the matchup, calling it a significant test for the team. “Every year, Georgia’s fun. I think it’s like Mississippi State, they were a good team coming in, but it’s like, kind of our test, and I think it’s the best Alabama team we’ve had in the past 5 or 6 years,” he said.
Despite the enthusiasm, Tropical Storm Isaias remains a concern. “That’s literally what we were just talking about walking this way,” Knotts said. “We’re really worried about it because I know there’s a threat of high winds and stuff, but I’m really hoping it’s going to somehow go off course or hold off for just a little bit.”
As of Wednesday evening, both SEC and university officials stated that the game will proceed as scheduled, though they are closely monitoring the weather.
Saturday also marks College GameDay’s first visit to Tuscaloosa this season, with fans eager to participate in the festivities on the Quad. “College GameDay is coming,” Fields said. Knotts added, “We really want to be there for that. We’re considering sleeping out on the Quad for that. We will be there.”
Hoffman shared his own plans for the event, saying, “I’m going to try to kick a field goal if we’re lucky.”
A representative from College GameDay stated that the show has no current plans to change its typical location at Denny Chimes. The representative noted that only severe weather would move the event indoors and that some of the show’s most memorable moments have occurred on rainy Saturday mornings.
University, SEC, and College GameDay officials continue to monitor the situation and will provide updates if any changes are made to Saturday’s plans.
In a statement, the University said, “The University of Alabama is closely monitoring weather forecasts. Fans should remain weather aware and follow official UA Gameday and UA Safety channels for the latest information regarding game-day operations, traffic, and any weather-related updates. The University is also preparing for a highly attended event and working closely with athletics, public safety, emergency management and security partners to support a safe and enjoyable experience for all fans and visitors at Saban Field at Bryant-Denny Stadium. The latest information will be posted on the UA Gameday and UA safety apps, social media and websites.”
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