NFL Hall of Fame Game Reportedly Canceled
This evening’s Hall of Fame game between the Packers and Colts is in jeopardy, according to multiple reports:
Both organizations very concerned about playing surface and there are real questions about whether tonight's game will be played.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 7, 2016
Parts of Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton, Ohio are as hard as concrete in opinion of multiple players. Unsafe, they say.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 7, 2016
Tom Silverstein of the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, who also wrote that “cancellation appears a possibility,” details the issues:
"The field outside the 40-yard lines on both sides appeared to be in good condition. Players were jogging sideline to sideline and doing half speed drills on each end. However, a source said that the end zones were a problem also, although what the problem there was isn’t known. But in the middle, the field appeared squishy and the prospect of players catching their cleats in the soft rubber pellets appears to be a big concern. Workers were spraying the field with what might appeared to be water to clear off the dust from the rubber pellets at midfield."
This is a developing story and it will be updated if and when new information arises.
UPDATE (6:40 pm ET): Prospects of the game happening do not look good.
The paint that was applied today on middle of field, and in endzones, has congealed; would be like playing on tar.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 7, 2016
Game now doubtful.
UPDATE II: Game’s not happening:
Teams have been told tonight's Hall-of-Fame game has been cancelled. Now awaiting official announcement.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 7, 2016