‘Like Playing a Game in 1990’: SMU and FSU Play Amid Power Outage

The final game of Week 1 of the college football season between SMU and Florida State saw a unique situation unfold due to a power outage at Doak Campbell Stadium in Tallahassee. Originally scheduled to start at 7:30 p.m. ET, the match began nearly two hours later, at 9:15 p.m. ET. When the game commenced, not all stadium lights were functioning.

Referees continued to use the official game clock, while ESPN's broadcast clock was unofficially monitored. The teams lacked access to coach-to-player communication systems and iPads. Instant replay and a PA announcer were also not available. ESPN's pre-game host, Taylor Tannenbaum, described the production as "bare-bones." Tannenbaum, along with analysts Jimbo Fisher, Eric Mac Lain, and Eddie Royal, had to keep the audience engaged throughout the delay.

Fisher called the situation "unbelievable," while Royal suggested they "move the game." However, Mac Lain believed the teams should "do whatever you can to get this game done." Dave Pasch, who was set to provide the play-by-play, remarked it would be "like playing a game in 1990." The game continued with some lights intermittently going out just before kickoff, prompting stadium staff to reset the transformer, which ultimately failed.

ACC commissioner Jim Phillips attended the game and communicated with both athletic directors. Coaches from both teams also participated in meetings to find a solution. Although the game was delayed until Tuesday, FSU had a bye week in Week 2, which would have minimal impact on SMU, who were scheduled to play UC Davis on Saturday.

The situation resulted in a wild finish for Week 1 of the season, following previous delays in Michigan and Clemson-LSU games.