Reports: UNC vs Florida A&M season-opener in serious doubt due to eligibility issues

North Carolina’s season opening game against Florida A&M on Saturday could be in jeopardy, as the Rattlers are reportedly yet to leave the state as of Friday afternoon due to a shortage of eligible players, according to multiple reports.

ESPN’s Pete Thamel reported that a decision on the game is expected later today as Florida A&M deals with eligibility issues and the possibility of playing shorthanded. Alison Posey, the sports director for ABC 27 in Tallahassee, added more context after speaking with FAMU head coach Willie Simmons, who told Posey that there are 20 players ineligible due to either academics or transfers.

Most concerning is the lack of depth up front for the Rattlers, who have only seven offensive linemen available, per Posey — not enough to safely play. The decision on whether to ultimately play will come down to whether the Florida A&M players want to play or not, Posey added.

Coach did say he is leaving the decision to play up to the players. He and the coaching staff have talked to them about playing and not playing – it will ultimately be their decision. https://t.co/BjWwWiFWKR

— Alison Posey (@AlisonPosey14) August 26, 2022

The game in Chapel Hill is currently scheduled for an 8 p.m. kickoff on Saturday. As of Friday afternoon, a charter flight for the Rattlers team was still scheduled, Posey reported.