Postponed football season could bring huge economic loss to universities

North Carolina State University football fans are counting down days to see some action on the gridiron.

But what if the ACC decides to sack its football season like the Big 10 and PAC-12 conferences - leaving football stadiums empty?

"I think they might follow suit. It's hard to say" said Chris Caruso, an N.C. State senior.

"With college sports, the whole system is built on this money from football," explained Joe Giglio, with WRALSportsFan.

A spokesman with N.C. State Athletics said the university generates about $2 million per home football game. The revenue comes from ticket sales, parking, and rental seats in the bleachers called "chair backs."

Football coaches and players are eager to get back on the field, reducing the risks involved with COVID-19.

“If a young athlete does contract COVID-19 and has even mild symptoms, they need to completely stop all exercise while they’re sick and for two weeks after they recover and then, in consultation with their doctor, be evaluated for potential heart problems. Only then, when they’re cleared, [can they] resume competitive sports," said Dr. Christopher Kelly, a cardiologist at UNC Rex Hospital.

The ACC released the following statement:

“The ACC will continue to make decisions based on medical advice, inclusive of our Medical Advisory Group, local and state health guidelines, and do so in a way that appropriately coincides with our universities’ academic missions. The safety of our students, staff and overall campus communities will always be our top priority, and we are pleased with the protocols being administrated on our 15 campuses. We will continue to follow our process that has been in place for months and has served us well. We understand the need to stay flexible and be prepared to adjust as medical information and the landscape evolves.”

ACC, SEC issue statements after PAC-12, Big Ten postpone fall sports

The SEC announced Tuesday night that football remains unchanged, much like the ACC.

The ACC starts playing games as a league Sept. 12. All teams are set to play one non-conference game.