Monday night’s Florida State vs. SMU game was interesting for more ways than one.
SMU topped Florida State, 27-24, in the Week 1 contest held on Labor Day Day evening. The game was delayed by more than 90 minutes due to a power outage at the stadium. There was an issue with the lights.
The Week 1 game, originally scheduled for 7:30 p.m. E.T., finally started at 9:15 p.m. after the stadium regained enough lights to play. However, all lights were not operational. When the game started, there was no public address system, scoreboard, coach-to-player helmet communication or review of replays.
“Once it was determined the game could proceed safely — and with the full support of the presidents, athletic directors and head coaches from both schools — we agreed to move forward despite not having the usual technology available at the start of the game,” ACC commissioner Jim Phillips told The Athletic.
By halftime, everything was back working like it should.
© Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images.
ESPN sideline reporter Taylor McGregor showed off her chops during the power outage, as fans praised her for an “amazing” performance.
College football fans praise McGregor for her work
“Congrats Taylor! You earned a massive paycheck ! Hope they extend your contract you showed the world yesterday you were made for what you do,” one fan wrote.
“Well done tonight. WELL done. Didn’t have THAT on your bingo card when you left the hotel for kickoff today…..a true professional job turned in tonight in some EXTREMELY challenging conditions…,” one fan added.
“You were an absolute Rockstar tonight. Made me proud to be a Cubs and FSU fan. Boog & JD were smiling!” one fan added.
“Outstanding job on the coverage last night. Great information, with frequent updates on a fluid situation with interviews of coaches and officials. Exhibit A of great sports journalism,” one fan added.
“You legit carried a nearly 2 hour game delay, that’s an insane feat on little notice,” one fan added.
Sideline reporters don’t often get a ton of credit for adding to the broadcast, but Monday night, McGregor showed why they are valuable.
