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Update: We finally have a time. Kickoff for No. 25 BYU and USF is set for 6:36 p.m. ET on ESPNU.
Players have returned to the field!
— USF Football (@USFFootball) September 3, 2022
Kick is now scheduled for 6:36 p.m. on ESPNU and can be heard on @1025TheBone.#HornsUp pic.twitter.com/VeBjE0m723
We just had another lightning strike.
— USF Football (@USFFootball) September 3, 2022
Our time to take the field has reset. As soon as we can take the field teams will have a 20 minute warm up period and then can play football.
What have you all been up to during this delay?
Update: BYU-USF will now be pushed back over a full two hours after its scheduled kickoff time due to lightning in the area.
Another lightning strike. 30 minute timer has been reset. I’m told the earliest we’re getting rolling is 6:15 pm. #USF #BYU
— Will Turner (@WTurner247) September 3, 2022
Update: It appears that we’re inching closer to the delay ending.
They’ve turned the music back on at Ray Jay. I’m heading back down to field level, appears there’s good momentum for getting this thing rolling. #USF
— Will Turner (@WTurner247) September 3, 2022
Update: BYU-USF will not start until at least after 5 p.m. ET as lightning continues to be detected in the Tampa Bay area.
We’ve just reset the clock. Another 25-30 minute delay starting at 4:48 pm ET. @rakoto10
— Will Turner (@WTurner247) September 3, 2022
The kickoff for Saturday’s matchup between No. 25 BYU and USF has been delayed due to inclement weather in the Tampa area. The Week 1 opener was scheduled for a 4 p.m. ET kick on ESPNU but clouds started to form just as both teams were warming up at Raymond James Stadium. The forecast called for the possibility of showers mid-afternoon.
BREAKING: We are officially under a weather delay at Raymond James Stadium.
— Will Turner (@WTurner247) September 3, 2022
BYU coaching staff came out, cheerleaders came out on both sides before vacating the field. Cougar captains came out with flags for a run out but retreated to locker room. #USF
BYU is entering its final season as an independent before jumping to the Big 12 next year. The Cougars are one of the top teams in returning production this season, returning several starters like veteran quarterback Jaren Hall. Meanwhile, USF is looking to take a step forward in its third year under the guidance of head coach Jeff Scott and a signature victory over a ranked opponent would set them on the right path. The Bulls’ biggest offseason addition was quarterback Gerry Bohanon, who helped lead Baylor to the Big 12 championship last season.
BYU closed as an 11.5-point favorite on DraftKings Sportsbook.