USF-Memphis football game Friday faces uncertainty because of Hurricane Milton

The approach of Hurricane Milton to the Tampa Bay area has created uncertainty about whether Friday’s USF football game against Memphis at Raymond James Stadium will go on as scheduled.

The game is scheduled for a 7 p.m. kickoff before a national ESPN audience.

The storm is expected to bring potentially catastrophic damage to the Bay area, which is still drying out from extensive flooding caused by two weeks ago by Hurricane Helene. The National Weather Service said, “If the storm stays on the current track, it will be the worst storm to impact the Tampa area in over 100 years.”

Nothing has been decided as both schools wait for developments wrought by this Category 5 monster storm. The Commercial Appeal in Memphis said the Tigers are taking a wait-and-see approach.

"Until we have further information, it does us no good to sit here and panic and say, 'What if?'" Memphis coach Ryan Silverfield said at his Monday news conference.

"Our operations crew, our people are doing a wonderful job. If something has to change, we'll be ready. But at this point right now, here in Memphis, all we can do is pray for those that may be affected and have great practices."

Postponing the game would be complicated for both teams.

They both have one open week left in their seasons, but they are not on the same date. Outright canceling the game could have a big impact on the American Athletic Conference standings and championship picture, and potentially even the College Football Playoff.

Memphis is 4-1 overall but 0-1 in the AAC and likely needs to run the table to stay in contention for a conference championship and possible playoff berth. USF is 2-3 overall and 0-1 in the conference.

The storm is expected to make landfall sometime on Wednesday and cut across the central part of Florida. The Tampa International Airport announced it will close operations at 9 a.m. Tuesday and reopen “when it is safe to do so.”