No fans permitted at Rutgers Football games this season

While hope is still alive that there will be a fall football season for Rutgers, if it does happen there won’t be any fans permitted at home games. New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy issued an executive order on Monday limiting outdoor gatherings to 500 people or fewer and Rutgers quickly announced that they will manage all venues in accordance with this directive.

Rutgers also added that “all safety precautions will be in place for those individuals who will be in attendance.” That probably means those close to the program like family of players and the staff will be allowed to attend.

Per a press release this afternoon, Rutgers added the following:

We understand and support the Governor’s decision based on health and safety guidelines. Athletic department officials will continue to monitor any changes to public health guidelines and adjust accordingly. Additionally, the Big Ten Conference announced earlier this month a plan to move fall sports to a conference-only schedule. Details regarding such schedule shall be forthcoming.

Season ticket holders will receive information from the Rutgers Ticket Office regarding the next steps and options for their account.

Rutgers Athletics encourages its fans and supporters to continue to take all necessary measures and follow the guidance of public health officials, including wearing a mask, practicing physical distancing and increased hand hygiene.

Thank you for your understanding during these challenging times. We appreciate your continued support of Rutgers Athletics.

This is obviously disappointing in the traditional sense, but based on the current situation with COVID-19, it is a responsible decision by the Governor and Rutgers. Fans should be happy if any games actually take place at all, which will ultimately be determined by the Big Ten sooner rather than later.